What is TEC Certification and Why Does It Matter?

The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), which is part of India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT), requires TEC certification for telecom and information technology equipment. This certification confirms that items meet the Essential Requirements (ERs) specified by TEC and are safe to use in Indian telecom networks.

Any manufacturer, domestic or international, seeking to sell, import, or deploy telecom equipment in India must receive TEC certification. This not only protects the safety and security of the national telecom infrastructure, but also product quality and standardization.

Which products require TEC certification?

The TEC’s Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) framework applies to a wide range of product categories. This includes, but is not limited to:

Mobile devices.

Routers, modems and gateways

Optical Fiber Equipment

Transmission Equipment

Base Stations

Smart Watches with SIM and Bluetooth

IoT devices

CCTV and Surveillance Equipment

IP Telephones and EPABX Systems

Products are divided into phases and product groups, with each having its own certification timetable and critical testing requirements.

Types of TEC Certification: GCS vs SCS
MTCTE offers two certification schemes:

1. General Certification Scheme (GCS) applies to high-risk and essential telecom products.

Requires testing in TEC-designated labs in India

Includes the review of technical documentation, test reports, and sample testing.

Longer procedure, usually 4-6 weeks.

2. Simplified Certification Scheme (SCS) is suitable for low-risk devices.

Depends on self-declaration and test results from approved laboratories.

Faster approval, usually completed within 2-3 weeks.

Choosing the appropriate certification path is determined by the product category and risk level as stated by TEC.

Step-by-Step TEC Certification Procedure
Obtaining a TEC certification entails several important stages:

1. Register at the MTCTE Portal.
Manufacturers or their authorized Indian representatives must open an account on the MTCTE website.

2. Select the Product Type and Scheme.
Determine the appropriate product category and certification scheme (GCS or SCS). Misclassification might result in delays or rejections.

3. Prepare technical documentation.
The documentation includes:

User manuals

Block diagrams

Circuit diagrams

Bill of Material (BoM)

Photos of the test setup.

Product Labeling and Marking

Product Safety Certifications

4. Submit sample for testing.
Depending on the scheme, the product is evaluated in:

TEC-designated laboratories (GCS)

NABL/ILAC recognized laboratories (SCS)

Testing is done against Essential Requirements (ERs), which cover:

EMI/EMC

Safety

RF Performance

SAR

Security Standards

5. Upload the test reports and documents.
Upload all of the necessary documentation and test reports to the portal.

6. Pay the Application Fee.
The fee varies depending on the product category, quantity of models, and type of testing.

7. TEC Evaluation and Approval.
TEC reviews the material and may request clarifications. Once satisfied, the certificate is digitally issued and valid for five years.

Documents Needed for TEC Certification: IEC (Import Export Code).

Authorization Letter (For Foreign Applicants)

Product datasheets

Test Reports

Company Registration Documents

Undertaking for Compliance

Indian Representative (AIR) Details (for Foreign OEMs)

TEC Certification Timeline and Validity: Process Steps and Duration.
Portal Registration: 1-2 days
Document Preparation: 1 Week
Sample Testing: 1-3 weeks.
TEC Review: 1–2 weeks
Certificate issuance Validity: 5 Years

Timelines can vary depending on product complexity and testing availability.

TEC Certification for Foreign Manufacturers.
Foreign enterprises must designate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). The AIR works as the liaison between the foreign producer and TEC, and is responsible for:

Coordinate certification tasks.

Submitting documents

Managing correspondence with TEC.

Foreign entities that do not have an AIR are unable to apply for certification.

Penalties for Noncompliance
Selling or importing uncertified telecom equipment in India violates DoT laws. The consequences may include:

Product seizure.

Fines and Penalties

Blacklist for future applications.

Legal action under the Indian telecom legislation

As a result, compliance with TEC requirements is not an option, but rather a legal duty.

Benefits of TEC Certification Regulatory Compliance: Required for selling in India.

Market Access: Promotes business in one of the largest telecom markets.

Quality assurance proves your product’s safety and reliability.

Trust Building: Increases your brand’s credibility with Indian consumers and telecom operators.

How to Select the Right Consultant for TEC Certification.
Given the complexities of the procedure, many businesses prefer to deal with certification experts. Reliable consultants will:

Classify your goods appropriately.

Prepare technical documents.

Liaise with TEC and labs.

Reduce time and costs.

Ensure successful approval on the first attempt.

When picking a consultant, look for:

Experience in MTCTE projects.

Understanding the Indian telecom legislation.

Strong local presence.

Conclusion
TEC certification is required for any telecom or IT product that enters the Indian market. It not only ensures compliance, but also creates new business potential. Understanding the certification scope, selecting the proper scheme, submitting accurate paperwork, and completing extensive product testing can help you traverse the TEC approval process effectively.