CDSCO License for Ear bowl
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
Constructed to fit the curvature of the head so that it will sit closely under the ear lobe and enable treatments of ear.

Comprehensive CDSCO Licensing Guide for Ear Bowl Medical Devices (Class A)
At our consultancy, with over 25 years of experience and having guided more than 500 companies, we understand that obtaining a CDSCO license for medical devices like the Ear Bowl—a Class A ENT device—is critical for market entry and legal compliance in India. The Ear Bowl, designed to fit snugly under the ear lobe for targeted ear treatments, falls under the lowest risk category but still demands strict adherence to the regulatory framework.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Ear Bowl Devices
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices in India under the Medical Devices Rules, 2017. For devices like the Ear Bowl, notified under 29/Misc/03/2020-DC(196) dated 06.08.2021, the licensing requirements are governed primarily by their risk class. As a Class A device, the Ear Bowl requires an MD5 license issued by the State Licensing Authority.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Ear Bowl
Class A devices represent low-risk medical devices. The Ear Bowl's classification as Class A means manufacturers must obtain the MD5 manufacturing license. This license ensures that your manufacturing processes meet the essential safety and quality standards mandated by CDSCO.
- Risk Class: A
- License Type: MD5 (Manufacturing License)
- Governing Authority: State Licensing Authority
- Application Form: MD3 (for MD5 license application)
For more on device classification, you can refer to the detailed Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Ear Bowl
The process for obtaining an MD5 license includes the following key steps:
Test License Application (Form MD13): Before applying for the MD5 license, you must apply for a test license to manufacture the device for testing purposes. This step takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: The Ear Bowl must be tested at CDSCO-approved government laboratories to verify compliance with applicable standards. You can find approved labs on the Testing Laboratories list.
Document Preparation: Prepare all required documents including your Device Master File and Plant Master File.
MD5 License Application (Form MD3): Submit the complete application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit by Notified Body: An audit of your manufacturing site is conducted by a notified body listed here.
Query Resolution: Respond promptly to any queries raised by the licensing authority or the notified body.
Grant of License: Upon satisfactory audit and documentation, the MD5 license is granted on Form MD5.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Ear Bowl
To ensure a smooth application, have the following documents ready:
- Company Constitution (e.g., Certificate of Incorporation)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Staff Qualification Documents (minimum qualification as per CDSCO requirements)
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed design and manufacturing information. Our Device Master File guide can help you prepare this.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Details on your manufacturing facility and quality systems. Refer to our Plant Master File guide.
- Essential Principles Checklist: Compliance with safety and performance requirements.
- Risk Management File: Identification and mitigation of risks related to the Ear Bowl device. Learn more about risk management implementation.
- Test Reports: From CDSCO approved labs.
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU): Must comply with Indian regulatory standards.
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documents: Evidence of ISO 13485 certification or equivalent.
Import License Process (MD15) for Ear Bowl Devices
If you plan to import Ear Bowl devices, an MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority is required. This process typically takes 5-6 months and involves:
- Document preparation including manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, CE certificate if applicable, DMF, PMF, and wholesale license.
- Application submission via Form MD14 on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Resolution of any departmental queries.
For detailed guidance, refer to our Import License guide.
Import License Documents Required
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale Drug License
- Company Constitution Documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
For Ear Bowl devices under Class A, the total timeline for obtaining the MD5 manufacturing license is approximately 3-4 months:
Stage | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 to 2 months |
Product Testing | 2 to 3 weeks |
Document Preparation | 2 to 3 weeks |
Application Submission | Immediate upon readiness |
Notified Body Audit | 3 to 4 weeks |
Query Resolution and Grant | 2 to 3 weeks |
Government Fees and Costs
- Test License (MD13): No separate fee beyond the standard application charges.
- MD5 License Application Fee: INR 5,000 per application plus INR 500 for each product.
Since the Ear Bowl is a single product, expect a total fee of INR 5,500.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delay in test reports from government labs.
- Solution: Schedule testing early and consider multiple approved labs to avoid bottlenecks.
Challenge: Incomplete or inconsistent documentation leading to audit queries.
- Solution: Use comprehensive checklists and expert review before submission.
Challenge: Non-compliance in labeling or IFU.
- Solution: Follow CDSCO labeling requirements strictly; consult our regulatory experts if unsure.
Challenge: Audit findings requiring corrective actions.
- Solution: Prepare for audits by conducting internal mock audits and training staff.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO licensing process for Ear Bowl devices can be complex. Our seasoned consultants offer hands-on support:
- End-to-end documentation assistance
- Coordination with notified bodies and labs
- Pre-audit preparation and post-audit support
- Timely application submissions and follow-ups
Our proven track record with over 500 successful projects ensures you minimize delays and maximize compliance.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application for Ear Bowl
- Assess Your Device Classification: Confirm your device is Class A (Ear Bowl) using CDSCO guidelines.
- Prepare Your Documents: Begin compiling the Device and Plant Master Files, QMS documents, and technical staff credentials.
- Apply for Test License (MD13): Submit your test license application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Schedule Product Testing: Engage a CDSCO-approved laboratory early to avoid delays.
- Engage a Notified Body: Choose a notified body from the official list for your audit.
- Submit MD5 Application (Form MD3): Once testing and documentation are complete, apply via the MD Online Portal.
- Prepare for Audit and Queries: Conduct internal audits and be ready to respond promptly.
By following these targeted steps, you can effectively streamline your Ear Bowl device licensing process and establish a compliant manufacturing operation in India.
For personalized assistance and detailed project planning, contact us today and leverage our 25+ years of regulatory expertise.