Updated on August 25, 2025 02:46:09 PM
A walkie-talkie requires a WPC ETA Certificate because it operates on specific radio frequency bands regulated by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. Depending on their frequency range, walkie-talkies, which are wireless communication devices that use radio waves to transmit voice signals, can be classified as either licensed or license-exempt (de-licensed).
Before walkie-talkies can be imported, sold, or used in India, the WPC requires Equipment Type Approval (ETA) to make sure they don't interfere with other vital wireless communication systems, like emergency services, defense, or aviation.
ETA certification verifies that the walkie-talkie conforms with Indian telecom standards and only uses the approved frequency bands, such as 865-867 MHz or 446 MHz.
In India, using or selling walkie-talkies without a valid WPC ETA certificate is prohibited and can result in fines, product seizure, or refusal of customs clearance. Getting the ETA guarantees regulatory compliance, device safety, and dependable communication whether the device is being used for personal, business, or industrial purposes.
WPC Certificate Sample
Download WPC CertificateThe WPC-ETA Certificate (Equipment Type Approval) is issued by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. For walkie-talkies, this certification confirms that the device meets India’s technical standards and operates only in license-exempt frequency bands permitted for public or commercial use, such as 446 MHz UHF.
It ensures the equipment does not interfere with licensed communication channels, including defense, aviation, and emergency services. Obtaining a WPC-ETA certificate is mandatory for importers, manufacturers, and sellers before they can market or use walkie-talkies in India. Without this approval, the import or sale of walkie-talkies is prohibited and may lead to product seizure or penalties.
The Procedure of acquiring a WPC ETA Certificate can be understood by following points:
The first and Initial step is to conduct a Radio Frequency Test, the results of the Radio Frequency Test is the most important document to be submitted at the time of the procedure. It is a mandatory test to be conducted by any seller or manufacturer to check the frequency range of the product.
The next step is to apply for an online application at Saral Sanchar Portal. You need to login first and then you have to fill up all the questions with necessary details. During filing the application, add mandatory personal, business, and equipment details.
ETA Certification can be obtained after an authorized person examines the documents. Make sure to submit the documents properly and it has to be truthful as well. Also, upload the Radio Frequency test report granted by the Testing Laboratory.
A sum up amount of money has to be deposited for further proceedings as well to secure the seat of receiving the ETA Certificate. It is an Important step to be covered otherwise your application would not be considered.
After completing the whole process, your documents will be examined by the WPC Officer to check that the documents does not contain any secrecy and do meet the requirements of authorizing an ETA Certificate. If the Officer gets satisfied he/she will provide you the ETA Certificate completing the whole procedure.
All wireless equipment must be designed and manufactured to ensure that its emission bandwidth and other technical parameters remain within the specified limits, per the WPC Wing notification. Type Approval is required for such equipment. The Central Government must receive an application in the required format in order to grant this approval (WPC ETA Approval).
Frequency Band | GSR No. | GSR Date | Purpose/ Applications |
---|---|---|---|
13.553-13.567 MHz | GSR 884 | 04.11.2010 | Use of Very Low Power Radio frequency devices, for indoor applications |
433-434 MHz | GSR 680(E) | 12.09.2012 | Use of low power devices or equipment for indoor applications |
433-434.79 MHz | GSR 698 (E) | 16.09.2015 | Use of Very Low Power Radio frequency devices or equipment including Radio Frequency Identification Devices |
865-867 MHz | GSR 564 (E) | 30.07.2008 | Use of Very Low Power Radio frequency devices or equipment including Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) |
2.4-2.4835 GHz | GSR 45 (E) | 28.01.2005 | Low Power equipment i.e. Wireless LAN (W-LAN) Equipment using Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11b Standard |
5.15–5.250 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 | Use of low power wireless access point/fixed point-to-point access/mobile and portable client devices system including Radio Local Area Network, under indoor and outdoor environment. |
5.250–5.350 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 | |
5.470–5.725 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 | |
5.725–5.875 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 |
To apply for a wpc certificate , applicants must submit certain documents to the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing under the Department of Telecommunications. These documents help verify the product details, applicant identity, and compliance with technical standards.
The government fee for wpc certificate for walkie-talkie is ₹10,000, and professional service charges range from ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 depending on the consultant. The process usually takes 5 to 7 working days if the RF test report is ready.
WPC Registration Fees | |
---|---|
Government Fees | ₹10000 |
Professional fees | ₹7500 |
Total Cost | ₹17500 |
Note: The aforementioned Fees is exclusive of GST.
Security services, events, and industries all make extensive use of walkie-talkies. They are legally permitted for use in India if they have a WPC ETA Certificate. Important advantages include:
Conclusion
Applying for an ETA Certificate is mandatory to remove many hindrances and one can enjoy several benefits such as the legal rights it provides, the Certificate Serves as a formal approval, it maintains National Security etc
However the process is a bit Complicated but you can Contact Professional Utilities for a Complete guidance at the amount of ₹17500/-.
At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions
ETA Certificate is Equipment Type Approval which acts like a license which helps in smooth functioning of businesses who deal in wireless devices including a walkie talkie.
ETA Certificate is provided by the Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing (WPC).
The time duration is 30-35 working days for obtaining an ETA Certificate.
The Cost is ₹17500/- at Professional Utilities. But the fee may vary depending upon the product.
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