TEC Certification

In the fast-paced world of telecommunications, compliance and quality assurance are key factors for product success. In India, the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) plays a critical role in ensuring that telecom products meet national technical standards. As the technical wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, TEC is responsible for framing specifications and conducting testing for telecom equipment. One of the most essential aspects of its work is the TEC Certification, a mandatory approval for many telecom and networking devices before they can be sold in the Indian market.

This blog provides a comprehensive overview of TEC Certification, its process, importance, applicable products, and how businesses can benefit from professional consultancy services in navigating this regulatory requirement.

What is TEC Certification?

TEC Certification is an official approval issued by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre confirming that a telecom product complies with the Indian Telegraph Rules and technical standards established by the DoT. It is mandatory for the import, sale, and usage of specified telecom equipment in India.

TEC certification ensures that devices are safe, do not cause harm to the telecom network, and are interoperable with other equipment. It covers a wide range of telecom and network products such as mobile phones, routers, switches, smart devices, and optical fibre cables.

Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE)

In 2017, the Indian government launched the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) scheme under TEC. This framework requires all designated telecom equipment to be tested and certified before sale or import.

Under MTCTE:

• Only Indian Registered Companies can apply.

• Products must undergo testing at TEC-designated labs in India.

• A TEC certificate must be obtained before launching the product in the Indian market.

Why TEC Certification is Important

1. Regulatory Compliance
   TEC Certification is legally required for importing or selling telecom devices in India. Non-compliance can lead to product bans, penalties, or seizure of goods by authorities.

2. Product Safety
   Certification ensures that telecom equipment does not interfere with public networks and is safe for consumer use.

3. Market Access
   Without TEC certification, it is impossible to legally market or sell certain telecom products in India, especially in B2G (business-to-government) sectors.

4. Consumer Confidence
   Certified products reflect high quality, performance, and safety standards—boosting brand credibility and trust among customers.

Products Covered Under TEC Certification

TEC updates its list of certified products regularly. As of now, products under MTCTE include:

• Mobile handsets and smartphones

• Wi-Fi routers and access points

• Network switches and firewalls

• Base stations and cellular repeaters

• Optical fibre cables and transmission equipment

• Smart watches and wearable devices

• IoT devices with SIM/communication modules

• IP phones and fax machines

• Satellite communication equipment

• Set-top boxes and modems

More categories are being added over time as India expands its regulatory framework in telecommunications.

TEC Certification Process

Here is a step-by-step overview of the TEC certification procedure under MTCTE:

1. Registration on TEC Portal

The applicant (manufacturer or their authorized Indian representative) must register on the TEC portal.

2. Selection of Product and Scheme

TEC offers two schemes:

• General Certification Scheme (GCS) for high and medium-risk products.

• Simplified Certification Scheme (SCS) for low-risk equipment.

Applicants must choose the appropriate scheme based on the product category.

3. Testing from Recognized Lab

Samples of the product must be tested at an Indian TEC-designated Conformity Assessment Body (CAB). Test reports must be in line with Indian standards.

4. Document Submission

The applicant must upload documents such as:

• Technical specifications

• User manual

• Test reports

• Company KYC

• Product photos

• Authorization letters (if applicable)

5. Fee Payment

Certification fees vary based on the product and scheme. Payment is done through the TEC portal.

6. Evaluation and Grant of Certificate

TEC reviews the application and test reports. If everything is in order, the certification is granted, usually within 4-6 weeks.

7. Labeling Requirement

After receiving certification, the manufacturer must label the product with the TEC mark before it is sold or distributed.

Challenges in TEC Certification

While TEC certification ensures product quality and network safety, the process can be complex and time-consuming due to:

• Frequent updates in standards and regulations

• Language barriers for foreign manufacturers

• Limited availability of TEC-approved testing labs

• High rejection risk due to incomplete documentation

• Coordination gaps between importer, manufacturer, and testing labs

To overcome these challenges, businesses often seek assistance from TEC Certification Consultants.

Role of TEC Certification Consultants

A TEC Consultant helps businesses manage the certification process smoothly and effectively. Their key services include:

• Pre-qualification assessment and gap analysis

• Technical documentation support

• Lab coordination and testing assistance

• Product registration and application filing

• Liaising with TEC authorities

• Labeling and compliance advice

• End-to-end project management

With their experience and knowledge of the Indian telecom regulatory landscape, these consultants ensure quick turnaround and a higher success rate.

Who Needs TEC Certification?

• Importers and Traders bringing telecom products into India

• Domestic Manufacturers of telecom, IoT, and smart devices

• OEMs/ODMs supplying telecom equipment under private labels

• Government Contractors and System Integrators participating in telecom and smart city projects

• Startups and Innovators developing new communication devices

If your product connects to the public telecom network, chances are it needs TEC certification before launch.

Conclusion

As the Indian telecom market continues to grow and adopt emerging technologies like 5G, IoT, and AI-enabled communication, the role of TEC Certification becomes even more important. It ensures that only high-quality, safe, and compliant products reach consumers and network providers.

For manufacturers and importers, understanding the TEC certification process is crucial—but navigating it alone can be overwhelming. That’s where professional consultants can provide the necessary expertise, making certification faster, smoother, and hassle-free.

Need Expert Assistance?
If you're planning to get your telecom products certified in India, Indiaxis is here to help. Our expert team of TEC consultants offers full support—from application to approval.