CDSCO License for Breathing circuit condenser
Medical Device Information
Important Notice for Class A Devices
Class A Non-sterile Non Measuring devices are exempt from MD5 and MD15 licenses. Only CDSCO registration is required as per GSR 777(E).
Intended Use
A device intended to be integrated within the expiratory limb of a breathing circuit to remove excess moisture through cooling and condensing, whilst also reheating the dried gases to an appropriate machine-compatible temperature.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Breathing Circuit Condenser (Class A Medical Device)
As a medical device regulatory consultancy with over 25 years of industry experience, having assisted more than 500 manufacturers and importers in securing CDSCO licenses, we understand the complexities involved in navigating India’s regulatory framework. This guide is tailored specifically for the Breathing Circuit Condenser, a Class A anesthesiology device, detailing every step you need to take to successfully obtain your CDSCO manufacturing license (MD5) and import license if needed.
Understanding the Breathing Circuit Condenser and Regulatory Significance
A Breathing Circuit Condenser is an essential device integrated into the expiratory limb of anesthesia breathing circuits. Its function is to remove excess moisture through cooling and condensing, while reheating the dried gases to maintain machine-compatible temperatures. Due to its direct impact on patient safety and machine efficiency, regulatory compliance is critical.
With the device notified under CDSCO’s Notification 29/Misc/03/2020-DC(177) dated 12.07.2021, it is classified as a Class A (low risk) medical device under Indian regulations, which means it is subject to a state-level licensing process (MD5 License).
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Breathing Circuit Condensers
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) governs medical device regulation in India. For Class A devices like the Breathing Circuit Condenser, the licensing process is managed by the State Licensing Authority through the MD5 License.
You must ensure compliance with essential principles, quality management systems, and clinical safety standards before marketing or manufacturing this device in India.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class A Devices
The Breathing Circuit Condenser falls under Class A, which is the lowest risk category. As per CDSCO regulations:
- License Type: MD5 (Manufacturing License)
- Application Form: MD3
- Licensing Authority: State Licensing Authority
- Total Processing Time: Approximately 3-4 months
Manufacturers must first obtain a Test License (Form MD13) to enable product testing in government-approved labs. This step is mandatory before applying for the manufacturing license.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Breathing Circuit Condenser
- Apply for Test License (MD13):
- Submit your application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Processing time: 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing:
- Send samples to government-approved laboratories for mandatory testing.
- Refer to the list of testing laboratories for approved facilities.
- Document Preparation:
- Prepare comprehensive documentation including Device Master File (DMF), Plant Master File (PMF), risk management reports, and Quality Management System (QMS) evidence.
- For guidance, see our Device Master File guide and Plant Master File guide.
- Apply for MD5 License (Form MD3):
- Submit the manufacturing license application through the CDSCO portal.
- Audit by Notified Body:
- An audit is conducted by a notified body listed on the Notified Bodies List.
- This includes facility inspection, QMS evaluation, and compliance verification.
- Respond to Queries:
- Address any queries raised by the licensing authority or notified body promptly.
- Grant of License:
- Upon satisfactory review and audit clearance, the MD5 Manufacturing License is issued on Form MD5.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
For your Breathing Circuit Condenser manufacturing license, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Company Constitution and Incorporation Certificate
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualification of Technical Staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Certificates
- Device Master File (DMF) detailing design, components, and manufacturing process
- Plant Master File (PMF) describing manufacturing facilities and operations
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating compliance
- Risk Management File (per ISO 14971 standards)
- Product Test Reports from Government Approved Labs
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System Documents (e.g., ISO 13485:2016 certificates)
Import License Process (MD15) for Breathing Circuit Condenser
If you plan to import this device into India, you will need the MD15 Import License granted by the Central Licensing Authority.
Key points:
- No Test License required.
- Application Form: MD14
- Processing Time: 5-6 months
- Required documents include your valid manufacturing license, Free Sale Certificate, ISO and CE certificates, and relevant master files.
- Apply via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
For detailed guidance, check our Import License guide.
Timeline and Processing Duration
Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Product Testing | 2 - 3 weeks |
Documentation Preparation | 2 - 3 weeks |
MD5 Application Submission | Immediate after docs ready |
Notified Body Audit | 4 - 6 weeks |
Query Resolution & Final Grant | 2 - 4 weeks |
Total estimated timeline: Approximately 3 to 4 months from Test License application to final MD5 license grant.
Government Fees and Costs
- Test License (MD13): Minimal government fee (varies by state)
- MD5 License Application Fees:
- Rs 5,000 per application
- Rs 500 per product
- Third-party Costs:
- Testing fees at government-approved labs (varies by test scope)
- Notified body audit fees (subject to body chosen)
Budgeting for these fees and associated costs upfront ensures a smooth process without delays.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
- Delay in Test License Issuance: Ensure all documents are complete and correctly formatted before submission.
- Product Testing Failures: Conduct internal pre-testing to mitigate rejections at government labs.
- Audit Non-compliance: Prepare your QMS and manufacturing site thoroughly; consider a pre-audit by consultants.
- Query Response Delays: Assign dedicated personnel to respond promptly and accurately.
Our hands-on experience with over 500 companies means we have proven strategies to overcome these obstacles efficiently.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing for Class A devices like the Breathing Circuit Condenser requires precise documentation, timely submissions, and compliance with evolving regulations. Our team provides:
- End-to-end application preparation and submission
- Pre-audit readiness assessments
- Document drafting and review (DMF, PMF, Risk Management)
- Liaison with notified bodies and CDSCO officials
Feel free to reach out for personalized support to fast-track your license approval.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Assess your device classification: Confirm your device as Class A using resources like the Medical Device Classification guide.
- Compile required documents: Start gathering company, product, and quality system documents.
- Register on CDSCO MD Online Portal: Create your account at CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Submit Test License (MD13) application: This is your gateway to product testing.
- Arrange product testing at approved labs: Coordinate with your chosen testing laboratory.
- Prepare for notified body audit: Schedule and ready your manufacturing site.
- Apply for MD5 License (Form MD3): Once testing and audit are complete.
Taking these actionable steps will place you firmly on the path to compliant manufacturing and marketing of your Breathing Circuit Condenser in India.
For further assistance, contact us to leverage our 25+ years of CDSCO licensing expertise and ensure your success in the Indian medical device market.