CDSCO License for Bed/chair electric massager
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
Intended to provide therapeutic massage to the occupant of a bed or chair for the treatment of body aches and pains.

Introduction to Bed/Chair Electric Massager and Regulatory Importance
The bed/chair electric massager is a Class B medical device designed primarily for rehabilitation purposes. It offers therapeutic massage to alleviate body aches and pains for users seated or lying down. Given its direct impact on patient health, regulatory compliance with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is mandatory before marketing in India. Proper licensing ensures safety, efficacy, and legal market access, protecting both manufacturers and consumers.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Bed/Chair Electric Massagers (Class B)
Bed/chair electric massagers fall under the Class B (low-moderate risk) category as per the CDSCO notification (File No. 29/Misc./03/2020-DC (160), dated 04.08.2022). Thus, the regulatory framework mandates obtaining a manufacturing license under Form MD5, issued by the State Licensing Authority. The process aligns with the Medical Device Rules, 2017, emphasizing quality management, risk mitigation, and compliance with Essential Principles.
Risk Classification and License Requirements
As a Class B device, the bed/chair electric massager requires:
- Test License (Form MD13): To conduct product testing at CDSCO-approved laboratories.
- Manufacturing License (Form MD3 for MD5 license): Issued after successful testing, documentation, and audit.
Manufacturers must comply with the following:
- State Licensing Authority jurisdiction
- Product testing with government-approved labs
- Audit by a notified body listed on the CDSCO portal
For detailed classification, refer to the Medical Device Classification.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Class B Devices
The MD5 license process is thorough but manageable with the right guidance. Steps include:
- Apply for Test License (Form MD13): Submit on the CDSCO MD Online Portal. Processing generally takes 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Conducted at CDSCO-approved labs like those listed here, testing evaluates safety, performance, and compliance.
- Document Preparation: Assemble all regulatory documents, including Device Master File and Plant Master File.
- Application for Manufacturing License (Form MD3): Post successful testing, submit the application for MD5 license through the MD Online portal.
- Audit by Notified Body: Engage with notified bodies listed here for on-site audits covering quality management systems and facility compliance.
- Resolution of Queries: Address any observations or queries from CDSCO or notified bodies promptly.
- Grant of License (Form MD5): Upon satisfactory audit and document review, the license is granted.
For an in-depth guide, see our MD5 License Guide.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Bed/Chair Electric Massager
Successful application hinges on comprehensive documentation. Key documents include:
- Company Constitution: Incorporation certificate, partnership deed, or relevant proof
- Proof of Premises Ownership/Lease Agreement: Valid and compliant with state regulations
- Technical Staff Qualifications: CVs and certificates of qualified personnel
- Fire NOC and Pollution NOC: From local authorities ensuring safety and environmental compliance
- Device Master File: Detailed technical dossier; our Device Master File guide simplifies preparation
- Plant Master File: Facility description and operational procedures, see our Plant Master File guide
- Essential Principles Checklist: Declaration of compliance with CDSCO Essential Principles
- Risk Management File: Evidence of risk assessment and mitigation strategies, see Risk Management
- Test Reports: From CDSCO-approved testing labs
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU): Clear, compliant labeling and user manuals
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documents: SOPs, CAPA, internal audits, and management review records
Import License Process (MD15) for Bed/Chair Electric Massagers
If importing this device into India, an MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority is required. The process includes:
- Preparation of import-specific documents including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016 certificate, CE certificate (if applicable), and QMS documentation.
- Application submission on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Queries resolution.
- License issuance typically within 5-6 months.
For detailed information, consult our Import License Guide.
Import License Documents Required
Essential documents for MD15 include:
- Valid Manufacturing License from country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File
- Plant Master File
- Wholesale License
- Company Constitution
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (Form MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Product Testing | 1 - 1.5 months |
Document Preparation | 2 - 3 weeks |
Manufacturing License (MD5) Application & Audit | 1.5 - 2 months |
Total Time | 3 - 4 months |
Government Fees and Costs
For Class B bed/chair electric massagers, fees are as follows:
- Test License Fee (MD13): Included in processing
- Manufacturing License (MD5) Fee: Rs 5,000 per application + Rs 500 per product
Additional costs include product testing fees (variable by lab), audit fees payable to notified bodies, and consultancy fees if engaged.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays in test license approval or product testing
Solution: Early submission with complete documentation; engage accredited labs promptly to schedule testing.
Challenge: Non-compliance during notified body audit
Solution: Pre-audit internal reviews and corrective actions; maintain robust QMS.
Challenge: Incomplete risk management files
Solution: Implement comprehensive risk analysis early; use expert templates and guidance.
Challenge: Difficulty interpreting Essential Principles
Solution: Use checklists and expert consultation to ensure all design and safety criteria are met.
Expert Consultation and Support
With 25+ years of experience supporting over 500 medical device companies, our consultancy specializes in CDSCO compliance for Class B devices like bed/chair electric massagers. We provide tailored support including:
- Complete document preparation and review
- Coordination with CDSCO and notified bodies
- Risk management strategy implementation
- Audit readiness and mock inspections
Our client-focused approach minimizes delays and maximizes approval success.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To initiate your CDSCO license application for the bed/chair electric massager:
- Register your company on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Apply for the test license (Form MD13) immediately to avoid downstream delays.
- Engage with a CDSCO-approved testing laboratory early to schedule product testing.
- Start compiling essential documents – Device Master File and Plant Master File are critical early steps.
- Plan for the notified body audit by selecting from the notified bodies list.
- Consider expert regulatory consultation to streamline the entire process and preempt common pitfalls.
By following these strategic steps, manufacturers can efficiently navigate the CDSCO licensing pathway, ensuring timely market entry and compliance with all regulatory mandates.