CDSCO License for Hip joint metal/polymer/metal semi-constrained porous-coated uncemented prosthesis.
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
Intended to be implanted to replace a hip Joint

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Hip Joint Metal/Polymer/Metal Semi-Constrained Porous-Coated Uncemented Prosthesis (Class C)
As a regulatory consultancy with over 25 years of experience and having supported 500+ medical device companies, we understand the complexities involved in securing CDSCO licenses for orthopaedic implants. The Hip Joint Metal/Polymer/Metal Semi-Constrained Porous-Coated Uncemented Prosthesis, classified as Class C by CDSCO, is a high-risk implantable device requiring stringent regulatory compliance before market entry in India.
Understanding the Device and Regulatory Importance
This prosthesis is designed to replace the hip joint in patients requiring orthopaedic intervention. Due to its implantable nature and direct interaction with human tissue, it falls under Class C – moderate to high risk – mandating central licensing authority approval via the MD9 license pathway.
Proper licensing ensures patient safety, device efficacy, and compliance with India’s Medical Device Rules, thereby facilitating smooth commercialization and importation.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Class C Orthopaedic Implants
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) governs medical device regulation in India. Devices are risk-classified from A to D, with Class C devices like your hip joint implant requiring a rigorous approval process involving:
- Product testing in government-recognized labs
- Comprehensive documentation including Device and Plant Master Files
- Audits by CDSCO Inspectors
- Compliance with Indian Medical Device Rules 2017
Our team ensures your product meets all regulatory benchmarks, minimizing delays and query cycles.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Hip Joint Prosthesis
As per the Medical Device Classification guidelines, the hip joint prosthesis is designated Class C due to its implantable nature and moderate risk profile.
- License Type: MD9
- Authority: Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO HQ, New Delhi)
- Application Form: MD7
This classification requires a centralized process with heightened documentation and testing compared to Class A/B devices.
Manufacturing License Process for Class C Device (MD9 License)
The MD9 license is mandatory for manufacturing Class C devices. The process involves:
- Test License (Form MD13): Before applying for manufacturing license, you must secure a test license valid for 1.5 to 2 months. This permits limited production for testing.
- Product Testing: Conduct testing at CDSCO-approved laboratories to validate safety and performance. Check the official list of testing laboratories.
- Documentation Preparation: Prepare Device Master File (DMF), Plant Master File (PMF), Essential Principles Checklist, Risk Management File, QMS documents, and others.
- Application Submission: File MD9 application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit: CDSCO inspectors conduct a detailed audit of manufacturing premises and processes.
- Query Resolution: Address any observations or queries raised during audit or document review.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory compliance, CDSCO issues the MD9 license in Form MD9.
Key Documents Required for MD9 Manufacturing License
To ensure a seamless review, prepare the following documents meticulously:
- Company Constitution and Incorporation Certificate
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Staff Qualification and Experience Details
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (Refer to our Device Master File guide)
- Plant Master File (See our Plant Master File guide)
- Essential Principles Checklist confirming compliance
- Risk Management File demonstrating hazard identification and mitigation (Risk Management resource)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) documentation, preferably ISO 13485:2016 certification
Import License Process for Class C Devices (MD15 License)
If you are an importer, the MD15 import license is mandatory. The process includes:
- Document preparation including Manufacturing License, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016, CE certificates
- Submission of application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Departmental review and query resolution
- License grant in Form MD15
Note: Unlike manufacturing, no test license or product testing is required for import license application.
Documents Required for MD15 Import License
- Valid Manufacturing License (MD9 or equivalent from country of origin)
- Free Sale Certificate from country of manufacture
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale Drug License (if applicable)
- Company Constitution Documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
- MD9 Manufacturing License: Approximately 4–5 months including test license issuance, testing, audit, and final approval.
- MD13 Test License: 1.5 to 2 months, prerequisite for MD9.
- MD15 Import License: 5–6 months from application submission to grant.
Understanding these timelines upfront allows you to plan your market entry and production schedules effectively.
Government Fees and Costs
For your Class C Hip Joint Prosthesis:
License Type | Authority | Fees (INR) |
---|---|---|
MD13 Test License | Central (CDSCO) | Rs. 50,000 (approx.) |
MD9 Manufacturing | Central (CDSCO) | Rs. 50,000 + Rs. 1,000/product |
MD15 Import License | Central (CDSCO) | Rs. 3,000 per site + Rs. 1,500/product |
These fees are subject to periodic revision. Early budgeting helps avoid surprises.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays due to incomplete documentation or inadequate QMS.
Solution: Engage expert consultants to review documents and implement ISO 13485-compliant QMS before application.
Challenge: Lengthy test lab turnaround times.
Solution: Choose CDSCO-approved labs with proven fast turnaround by consulting the Testing Laboratories list.
Challenge: Audit non-compliance due to facility gaps.
Solution: Pre-audit readiness assessments and mock audits by experienced professionals reduce risks.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing for Class C orthopaedic implants demands detailed knowledge and hands-on experience. Our seasoned regulatory consultants provide:
- End-to-end application preparation and submission
- Comprehensive documentation and DMR/PMF development
- Liaison with CDSCO and notified bodies
- Audit preparation and follow-up
Our track record with 500+ successful licenses underscores our commitment to streamlining your regulatory journey.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Classify your device accurately as Class C. Confirm using the Medical Device Classification tool.
- Prepare your test license application (MD13) and submit via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Identify suitable testing labs early to schedule product testing.
- Compile robust Device Master File and Plant Master File, aligning with CDSCO expectations.
- Schedule pre-audit readiness checks to identify and resolve gaps.
- Submit your MD9 application (Form MD7) on the MD Online Portal after successful product testing.
- Prepare for and facilitate the CDSCO audit.
- Respond promptly to any queries to avoid delays.
Starting early and partnering with experienced consultants significantly improves the likelihood of timely approval and market entry.
For a personalized consultation and assistance tailored to your Hip Joint Prosthesis regulatory needs, connect with our experts today and leverage 25+ years of industry insight.