CDSCO License for Respiratory oxygen monitor
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
An instrument designed to continuously measure the concentration of oxygen (O2) inspired by a patient in a respiratory maintenance/therapy setting.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors (Class B Medical Device)
Respiratory oxygen monitors play a critical role in anesthesiology by continuously measuring the oxygen concentration inspired by patients undergoing respiratory therapy. As a Class B medical device under the Indian regulatory framework, these monitors require thorough compliance with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for legal manufacture or import. With over 25 years of expertise assisting 500+ companies navigate CDSCO licensing, we provide a detailed, actionable roadmap tailored specifically for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors.
Understanding the CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors
The CDSCO regulates medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules (MDR), 2017, and subsequent notifications. Respiratory oxygen monitors fall under the anesthesiology category, notified by CDSCO as per Notification 29/Misc/03/2020-DC(177) dated 12.07.2021. Being a Class B device (low-moderate risk), these devices require a manufacturing license known as MD5, issued by the State Licensing Authority.
Manufacturers and importers must comply with these regulations to ensure patient safety and market access. The licensing process involves product testing, documentation, audits, and fee payments.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors
CDSCO classifies medical devices into four risk classes: A, B, C, and D. Respiratory oxygen monitors are Class B devices, which implies:
- Moderate risk to patients
- Require State-level manufacturing license (MD5)
- Mandatory product testing through CDSCO-approved labs
- Audit by notified bodies
For detailed classification, manufacturers can refer to the Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors (MD5)
The MD5 license is a multi-step process taking approximately 3-4 months from start to finish. Below is a practical breakdown:
- Apply for Test License (Form MD13): Before manufacturing, obtain a test license to produce samples for testing. This takes about 1.5-2 months.
- Product Testing: Send samples to CDSCO-approved testing laboratories. You can find the list of testing labs here.
- Document Preparation: Compile technical documentation including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, Essential Principles Checklist, and QMS documents.
- Apply for Manufacturing License (Form MD3): Submit the application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit by Notified Body: Engage a notified body for facility and process audit. Refer to the list of notified bodies for selection.
- Respond to Queries: Address any clarifications from CDSCO or the notified body promptly to avoid delays.
- License Grant (Form MD5): Upon successful audit and document approval, the license is granted.
For detailed guidance on MD5 license acquisition, consult our MD5 License Guide.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
Preparing accurate and comprehensive documentation is vital. For Respiratory Oxygen Monitors, you will need:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, MOA/AOA)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Qualification and Experience Details of Technical Staff
- Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF) detailing device specifications and design (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File (PMF) describing manufacturing facilities and processes (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating compliance with Indian MDR
- Risk Management File detailing hazard identification and mitigation (Risk Management Guide)
- Test Reports from government-approved labs
- Labeling and Instructions for Use (IFU) samples
- Quality Management System (QMS) documents compliant with ISO 13485
Ensuring completeness upfront reduces back-and-forth with authorities.
Import License Process for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors (MD15)
If you plan to import respiratory oxygen monitors into India, an import license (Form MD15) from the Central Licensing Authority is mandatory. The process includes:
- Preparation of product and company documentation
- Submission of application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Resolution of departmental queries
- License grant within approximately 5-6 months
Documents required include:
- Valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certificate
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale Drug License in India
- Company Constitution
Refer to our detailed Import License Guide for step-by-step instructions.
Timeline and Processing Duration for MD5 License
Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (Form MD13) | 1.5 - 2 months |
Product Testing | 3-4 weeks |
Document Preparation | 2-3 weeks |
License Application & Audit | 4-6 weeks |
Query Resolution & Final Grant | 2-3 weeks |
Total Estimated Time: 3 to 4 months
Planning well in advance and maintaining open communication with CDSCO and notified bodies helps stay on schedule.
Government Fees and Costs for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors
For Class B devices, the fees are as follows:
- Test License Fee (MD13): Included in application
- Manufacturing License Fee (MD5): Rs 5,000 per application
- Product Fee: Rs 500 per product
- Audit and Testing Costs: Variable, typically Rs 50,000 - Rs 1,00,000 depending on notified body and lab charges
Budgeting for these costs upfront avoids surprises. Note that delayed responses or incomplete documentation can increase expenses due to repeated audits or resubmissions.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Document Gaps or Non-compliance
Solution: Utilize checklists and guides such as the Device Master File Guide to ensure all technical documentation meets CDSCO standards.
Challenge: Delays in Product Testing
Solution: Coordinate sample submission with accredited labs early. Refer to the Testing Laboratories list to identify labs with shorter turnaround times.
Challenge: Audit Non-conformities
Solution: Conduct internal mock audits and gap assessments before notified body visits. Engage experts with prior audit experience.
Challenge: Managing Query Responses
Solution: Assign dedicated regulatory personnel or consultants to track and respond promptly to CDSCO queries.
Expert Consultation and Support
Given the complexity and critical timelines, partnering with experienced regulatory consultants can significantly smooth the CDSCO licensing journey. Our team has successfully facilitated over 500 medical device registrations, including Respiratory Oxygen Monitors, by providing:
- Comprehensive gap analysis
- Document preparation and review
- Liaison with CDSCO and notified bodies
- Audit readiness training
- Timely query resolution
This hands-on support minimizes rejections and accelerates market entry.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors
To kickstart your CDSCO licensing process:
- Classify your device accurately as Class B and understand associated requirements (Medical Device Classification).
- Register and submit your application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Prepare the Test License application (MD13) to begin sample manufacturing.
- Identify and engage a notified body early for audit scheduling (Notified Bodies List).
- Plan your documentation based on our guides for Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Risk Management.
- Schedule product testing with government-approved labs.
- Maintain an internal team or consultant support to monitor deadlines and manage communications.
By following these practical steps and leveraging expert support, manufacturers can confidently achieve CDSCO licensing for Respiratory Oxygen Monitors, ensuring compliance and timely access to the Indian market.
For personalized assistance, please contact our regulatory consultancy to discuss your project and receive tailored solutions.