CDSCO License for Airway temperature monitoring system
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
An assembly of devices used to continuously measure the temperature at a specific point along a ventilation airway.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Airway Temperature Monitoring Systems (Class B)
As specialists with over 25 years of experience in medical device regulatory affairs, we've successfully guided more than 500 companies through the intricacies of obtaining CDSCO licenses in India. If you manufacture or import an Airway Temperature Monitoring System—a Class B medical device used in anesthesiology to continuously measure temperature along a ventilation airway—this detailed guide provides all the practical information you need to ensure compliance and market readiness.
Understanding the Device and Regulatory Importance
The Airway Temperature Monitoring System is critical for patient safety during anesthesia, providing real-time temperature data within the ventilation airway. Given its role, it falls under Risk Class B according to CDSCO's classification, indicating low to moderate risk. This classification has specific regulatory pathways to guarantee safety, efficacy, and quality before entering the Indian market.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Airway Temperature Monitoring Systems
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices under the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017. For Class B devices like the Airway Temperature Monitoring System, the applicable manufacturing license is the MD5 license, issued by the State Licensing Authority. The entire process involves multiple steps including obtaining a test license, product testing, document submission, and an audit by a notified body.
Risk Classification and License Requirements
- Device Category: Anesthesiology
- Risk Class: B
- License Type: MD5 (Form MD3 for application, Form MD5 for grant)
- Regulatory Authority: State Licensing Authority
- Notification Reference: 29/Misc/03/2020-DC(177), dated 12.07.2021
This classification mandates adherence to stringent quality and safety norms, including compliance with Essential Principles and Risk Management requirements.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5)
The MD5 license process typically spans 3 to 4 months and comprises the following stages:
- Test License (Form MD13): Apply for a test license as the first step, which takes about 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Conduct mandatory tests in CDSCO-approved laboratories to validate product safety and performance.
- Document Preparation: Compile all necessary documents including Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Quality Management System (QMS) records.
- License Application (Form MD3): Submit the manufacturing license application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit by Notified Body: An audit is conducted by a notified body listed here to verify compliance.
- Query Resolution: Address any observations or queries raised by the department or notified body.
- License Grant (Form MD5): Upon satisfactory completion, the license is issued.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
For your Airway Temperature Monitoring System, ensure you have the following documentation ready:
- Company Constitution and Incorporation Certificates
- Proof of Ownership or Lease Agreement of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualifications of Technical Staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed design, specifications, and manufacturing process (guide here)
- Plant Master File (PMF): Plant layout, production equipment, and quality control processes (guide here)
- Essential Principles Compliance Checklist
- Risk Management File aligned with ISO 14971 (risk management insights)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved laboratories (approved labs list)
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System Documents (preferably ISO 13485 certified)
Import License Process (MD15) for Airway Temperature Monitoring Systems
If you are an importer, the import license is governed by Form MD14, with the license granted as MD15 by the Central Licensing Authority. The process generally takes 5 to 6 months, without the need for a test license. Key steps include:
- Preparation and submission of the application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Submission of comprehensive documentation including:
- Manufacturing License of the foreign manufacturer
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate or equivalent
- Device and Plant Master Files
- Wholesale License
- Company Constitution
- Resolution of any queries raised by CDSCO
- Receipt of the MD15 import license
Government fees for import licenses vary by device class; for Class B devices, expect approximately 1,000 per product.
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Timeline (Approx.) | Authority |
---|---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 – 2 months | State Licensing Authority |
Manufacturing License (MD5) | 3 – 4 months (including test license) | State Licensing Authority |
Import License (MD15) | 5 – 6 months | Central Licensing Authority |
Government Fees and Costs
For your Airway Temperature Monitoring System, the fees are as follows:
- MD5 Manufacturing License:
- Rs. 5,000 per application
- Rs. 500 per product
- Test License (MD13): Included within MD5 process
- Import License (MD15):
- Approx. $2,000 per site
- $1,000 per product
Budgeting for additional costs such as notified body audits, testing laboratory fees, and consultancy services is essential for seamless processing.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
- Delays in Product Testing: Testing can be a bottleneck due to limited slots; early booking with CDSCO-approved labs is advised.
- Documentation Gaps: Incomplete Device Master Files or inadequate Risk Management documentation often lead to repeated queries. Utilize our DMF guide for thorough preparation.
- Audit Non-Compliance: Preparing for notified body audits by conducting internal mock audits can help identify and rectify potential issues.
- Query Management: Prompt and precise responses to CDSCO queries reduce processing time significantly.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing requirements for Class B devices like the Airway Temperature Monitoring System demands precision and expertise. We offer end-to-end support including:
- Preparing and reviewing all regulatory documentation
- Coordinating product testing with authorized laboratories
- Managing the audit process with notified bodies
- Liaising with CDSCO authorities to expedite query resolution
Our proven track record ensures your licensing journey is smooth, timely, and compliant.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To embark on your licensing process for the Airway Temperature Monitoring System, follow these actionable steps:
- Assess Your Device Classification: Confirm that your device is Class B, as per the official medical device classification (check classification).
- Prepare Documentation: Begin compiling the Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Risk Management files.
- Apply for Test License: Submit Form MD13 through the CDSCO MD Online Portal to initiate product testing.
- Schedule Testing: Book your product testing with one of the approved laboratories early to avoid delays.
- Engage a Notified Body: Identify and contact notified bodies for your audit from the official list.
- Plan for QMS Implementation: Ensure your quality management systems align with ISO 13485 standards.
- Consult Experts: Consider partnering with experienced regulatory consultants to streamline your application and mitigate risks.
By taking these concrete steps, you set a strong foundation for obtaining your MD5 manufacturing license efficiently and compliantly.
For more detailed guidance tailored to your Airway Temperature Monitoring System, feel free to reach out to our regulatory consulting team. With our deep domain knowledge and hands-on experience, we’re your trusted partner for successful CDSCO licensing in India.