CDSCO License for Automatic Event Detection Software For Polysomnograph With Electroencephalograph
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
Automatically mark electroencephalograph and polysomongraph signals in order to aid in identification of such events and annotation of prolonged PSG traces; Automatically calculate simple measures obtained from recorded signals (e.G. Magnitude, time, frequency and simple statistical measures of marked events); All output subject to verification by qualified clinical user

Introduction to Automatic Event Detection Software for Polysomnograph with Electroencephalograph
Automatic Event Detection Software for Polysomnograph with Electroencephalograph (EEG) is a cutting-edge medical software designed to automatically mark EEG and polysomnograph signals. It aids clinicians by identifying and annotating events in prolonged PSG traces and calculating key signal metrics like magnitude, time, and frequency. Given its critical role in sleep studies and neurological diagnostics, this software is classified as a Class C medical device under Indian regulations, necessitating stringent regulatory oversight.
Navigating the CDSCO licensing process for such software is essential to legally market and distribute it within India. With over 25 years of experience and having supported 500+ companies, we provide you a detailed roadmap to secure your CDSCO license efficiently.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Medical Device Software
Medical device software in India falls under the purview of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). The regulatory framework aligns with the risk-based classification system introduced by CDSCO’s notification 29/Misc./03/2020-DC (198), effective from September 13, 2021.
Software that interprets physiological signals and influences clinical decisions, such as Automatic Event Detection Software for Polysomnograph with EEG, is categorized as Class C due to its medium to high risk to patient safety if malfunctioning.
Risk Classification and License Requirements
Being a Class C device, the software requires a MD9 manufacturing license issued by the Central Licensing Authority. This license involves a detailed review of your quality management system, product testing, and compliance with essential principles.
Key points:
- Risk Class: C
- License Type: MD9 (Application Form MD7)
- Authority: Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO HQ)
- Timeline: Approximately 4-5 months
- Fees: ₹50,000 per application + ₹1,000 per product
For detailed classification guidance, consult CDSCO’s Medical Device Classification resource.
Manufacturing License Process for Class C Software (MD9)
The MD9 licensing process is comprehensive, involving several sequential steps:
Test License (Form MD13): Before applying for the manufacturing license, you must obtain a test license to manufacture and test your software product. This typically takes 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: Conduct mandatory product testing at CDSCO-approved government laboratories. Testing evaluates software performance, data integrity, and safety according to applicable standards.
Document Preparation: Prepare and compile all required documentation, including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and Quality Management System (QMS) documents.
License Application (Form MD7): Submit the application for the MD9 manufacturing license via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit and Inspection: CDSCO inspectors carry out a thorough audit of your manufacturing facility, QMS, and technical documents.
Query Resolution: Address any queries or deficiencies raised during the inspection or review process promptly.
Grant of License (Form MD9): Upon satisfactory compliance, the Central Licensing Authority issues the MD9 manufacturing license.
For an in-depth understanding, our MD9 License Guide provides practical tips and document checklists.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
Preparing a comprehensive dossier is critical for smooth processing. For the Automatic Event Detection Software (Class C), the following documents are mandatory:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of ownership or lease agreement of manufacturing premises
- Details and qualifications of technical staff
- Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed software design, development, and validation documents (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File (PMF): Manufacturing processes, infrastructure, equipment details (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating compliance with Indian medical device regulations
- Risk Management File outlining hazard analysis and mitigation (Risk Management)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved laboratories (Testing Laboratories)
- Product labels, packaging, and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System documents, preferably ISO 13485:2016 certification
Ensuring accuracy and completeness here prevents delays during review.
Import License Process (MD15) for Class C Software
If you plan to import this software into India instead of manufacturing locally, you must obtain the MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority.
Key aspects:
- No test license required.
- Submit application using Form MD14 on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Submit supporting documents such as manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016 certification, CE Certificate, Device Master File, Plant Master File, and wholesale license.
- Processing time is approximately 5-6 months.
- Fees for Class C imports are around 1,500 per product.
For further guidance, consult our Import License Guide.
Timeline and Processing Duration
Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 – 2 months |
Product Testing | 1 month |
Documentation Preparation | 1 month |
MD9 Application Processing | 1.5 – 2 months |
Total | 4 – 5 months |
Planning accordingly and preparing documents in advance can shorten delays.
Government Fees and Costs
- MD13 Test License: Fees vary by device, generally nominal.
- MD9 Manufacturing License: ₹50,000 per application + ₹1,000 per product.
- Additional costs:
- Product testing fees at government labs
- Audit fees payable to notified bodies (refer Notified Bodies List)
- Consultancy and documentation preparation fees if outsourced
Budgeting for these fees upfront avoids financial surprises.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays due to incomplete documentation
- Solution: Use comprehensive checklists and templates. Engage experts to review before submission.
Challenge: Non-compliance during audits
- Solution: Conduct internal audits, mock inspections, and train staff thoroughly.
Challenge: Confusion over device classification
- Solution: Refer to official CDSCO notifications and classification tools. When in doubt, consult regulatory professionals.
Challenge: Prolonged product testing cycles
- Solution: Choose CDSCO-approved labs with experience in software testing to expedite turnaround.
Expert Consultation and Support
With over 25 years of experience and having enabled more than 500 manufacturers and importers to navigate CDSCO licensing successfully, we offer:
- Tailored regulatory strategy for software devices
- Complete documentation preparation and review
- Coordination with testing laboratories and notified bodies
- Pre-audit readiness assessments
- Post-license compliance support
Our involvement can significantly reduce your time to market and minimize compliance risks.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Assess your device risk class: Confirm your software falls under Class C.
- Gather your team: Assign responsibility for regulatory, quality, and technical documentation.
- Prepare your Test License application (Form MD13): Start early to initiate product testing.
- Compile essential documents: Use our guides on Device Master File and Plant Master File to prepare compliant dossiers.
- Submit your applications through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Plan for audits: Schedule audits with notified bodies and prepare your facility accordingly.
- Resolve queries promptly: Maintain close communication with CDSCO to avoid delays.
By following this structured approach and leveraging expert guidance, you can smoothly navigate the CDSCO licensing process for your Automatic Event Detection Software and unlock the vast Indian market opportunity.
For personalized assistance, contact us to discuss your regulatory needs and receive a customized action plan.