CDSCO License for Colonoscope, General & Plastic Surgery
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
Colonoscopes are used for the removal of foreign bodies, excision of tumors or colorectal polyps (polypectomy), and control of hemorrhage. Routine colonoscopy is important in diagnosing intestinal cancer

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Colonoscope (General & Plastic Surgery) – Class B Medical Device
Colonoscopes play a critical role in modern gastroenterology and colorectal surgery, enabling procedures like polypectomy, tumor excision, and hemorrhage control. With their vital role in diagnosing and treating intestinal cancer, these medical devices fall under Class B risk category in India, necessitating stringent regulatory compliance. For manufacturers and importers aiming to enter the Indian market, understanding the CDSCO licensing pathway is essential to ensure smooth approval and timely market access.
As a regulatory consultancy with over 25 years of expertise and a track record of assisting 500+ companies, we provide you with a detailed, practical roadmap tailored specifically for the Colonoscope device under the dermatological and plastic surgery category.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Colonoscope (Class B Medical Device)
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017. Colonoscopes are categorized as Class B devices due to their moderate risk profile. The manufacturing license for Class B devices is granted by the State Licensing Authority through the MD5 license process.
The regulatory framework ensures that all medical devices meet safety, quality, and performance standards before entering the market. Compliance involves product testing, documentation, audits, and quality management system (QMS) adherence.
Learn more about the Medical Device Classification to understand where Colonoscope fits.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Colonoscope
- Risk Class: B (Moderate risk)
- Regulatory License: MD5 Manufacturing License (Form MD3)
- Issuing Authority: State Licensing Authority
- Process Duration: Approximately 3-4 months
- Key Steps: Test license (MD13), product testing, documentation, audit, license grant
This classification means the manufacturer must comply with both quality and safety norms but follows a relatively streamlined process compared to higher-risk Class C/D devices.
Manufacturing License Process for Colonoscope (MD5 License)
Test License Application (Form MD13):
- Apply for a test license to legally manufacture the device for testing purposes.
- Timeline: 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing:
- Conduct mandatory testing at government-approved labs to validate product specifications and safety.
- Access the list of Testing Laboratories.
Documentation Preparation:
- Compile technical and quality documents, including Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Risk Management File.
- Refer to our Device Master File Guide and Plant Master File Guide.
Application Submission (Form MD3):
- Submit the manufacturing license application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit by Notified Body:
- An audit is conducted by a notified body to assess compliance with MDR 2017 and QMS.
- Check the list of notified bodies authorized for audits.
Query Resolution:
- Address any observations or queries raised during audit or by CDSCO officials promptly.
License Grant:
- Upon satisfactory compliance, the MD5 license is issued in Form MD5.
For an in-depth walkthrough, consult our MD5 License Guide.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Colonoscope
To ensure a smooth approval, prepare the following documents meticulously:
- Company Constitution (e.g., MOA, AOA)
- Proof of ownership or lease agreement for manufacturing premises
- Qualification and experience certificates of technical staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (design, specifications, manufacturing process)
- Plant Master File (facility details, equipment list, SOPs)
- Essential Principles Checklist compliance document
- Risk Management File demonstrating hazard identification and mitigation
- Test Reports from government-approved laboratories
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) documentation compliant with ISO 13485
Proper preparation of these documents reduces back-and-forth and expedites approval.
Import License Process for Colonoscope (MD15 License)
If you plan to import Colonoscopes into India rather than manufacture locally, an MD15 import license is mandatory.
- Issuing Authority: Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO HQ)
- Application Form: MD14
- Process Duration: 5-6 months
- No test license required for import license
The application involves:
- Preparation of comprehensive documents including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016 certificate, CE certificate (if applicable), Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Wholesale Drug License
- Submission via the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Addressing any departmental queries
- License grant in Form MD15
See our detailed Import License Guide for more.
Import License Documents Required
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certificate
- CE Certificate or equivalent
- Device Master File
- Plant Master File
- Wholesale Drug License (if applicable)
- Company Constitution Documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
Stage | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Product Testing | 2 - 3 weeks |
Document Preparation | 2 - 3 weeks (parallel step) |
Application Submission & Audit | 1 - 1.5 months |
Query Resolution & Final Grant | 2 - 3 weeks |
Total time for MD5 manufacturing license: Approximately 3 to 4 months
For import license (MD15), total time is 5 to 6 months.
Government Fees and Costs
MD5 License:
- Application Fee: Rs 5,000
- Per Product Fee: Rs 500
MD15 Import License:
- For Class B devices: Rs 2000 per site + Rs 1000 per product
Costs exclude testing fees from government labs and audit charges by notified bodies.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Delayed Test Reports: Select notified testing labs early and schedule testing promptly.
- Incomplete Documentation: Use a detailed checklist and cross-verify documents before submission.
- Audit Non-Compliance: Conduct internal audits and mock inspections prior to official audit.
- Query Management: Respond to queries comprehensively and within stipulated timelines to avoid delays.
Our experience shows that proactive planning and expert guidance can reduce typical delays by up to 30%.
Expert Consultation and Support
With over 25 years in the regulatory domain and helping more than 500 clients secure their CDSCO licenses, we offer:
- Customized gap analysis
- Document preparation and review
- Scheduling and managing product testing
- Liaison with notified bodies and CDSCO officials
- Post-approval compliance support
Partnering with seasoned consultants ensures your Colonoscope licensing journey is efficient and hassle-free.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application for Colonoscope
- Assess Classification: Confirm Colonoscope is Class B as per CDSCO MDR.
- Prepare Initial Documents: Gather company, premises, and technical staff credentials.
- Apply for Test License (MD13): Submit online via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Schedule Product Testing: Coordinate with approved labs early.
- Develop Device and Plant Master Files: Follow our guides for comprehensive, compliant files.
- Plan for Audit: Identify notified body and plan for audit readiness.
- Submit Manufacturing License Application (MD3): Post testing and documentation.
Starting early and following these steps will help you meet timelines and regulatory expectations seamlessly. For tailored support, reach out to experienced consultants who understand the nuances of Colonoscope licensing under the CDSCO framework.
Your journey to compliant manufacturing and market entry starts with informed action. We are here to guide you every step of the way.