CDSCO License for Tracheotome
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 surgical instrument designed to cut an opening into the trachea (windpipe) through the anterior surface of the neck to create an artificial airway (tracheotomy).

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Tracheotome (Class A Medical Device)
Tracheotomes play a critical role in anesthesiology as surgical instruments used to create an artificial airway by cutting an opening into the trachea. Given their invasive nature and patient safety implications, regulatory approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is mandatory before marketing or manufacturing in India. With over 25 years of experience supporting 500+ medical device companies, we provide you with a detailed, practical roadmap to obtain your CDSCO license efficiently for this Class A device.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Tracheotome
Tracheotomes fall under the anesthesiology category and are classified as Class A devices, the lowest risk category under the Indian medical device rules. The regulatory oversight is handled primarily by the State Licensing Authority for manufacturing licenses, and the Central Licensing Authority for imports. Compliance with the Medical Device Rules 2017, and adherence to the notification 29/Misc/03/2020-DC(177) dated 12.07.2021, is essential.
All applications for licenses must be submitted online via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Tracheotome
- Risk Class: A (low risk)
- License Type: Manufacturing license under Form MD5
- Competent Authority: State Licensing Authority
Class A devices like the Tracheotome require an MD5 manufacturing license along with a mandatory Test License (Form MD13) before full license approval. Importers must apply for the MD15 import license.
For detailed understanding of classification, you can refer to our Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Tracheotome
Obtaining the MD5 license for a Class A device involves several sequential steps:
- Test License Application (Form MD13): Obtain a test license to produce samples for testing. This process typically takes 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Samples must be tested at CDSCO-approved laboratories. A list of such labs is available on the Testing Laboratories page.
- Documentation Preparation: Compile all necessary documents including Device Master File (DMF), Plant Master File (PMF), risk management, and quality systems.
- Submission of MD5 Application (Form MD3): Apply online through the CDSCO portal.
- Audit by Notified Body: An audit will be conducted by a notified body accredited for Class A/B devices. You can check the list of notified bodies.
- Query Resolution: Address any deficiencies or queries raised by the authority or auditors promptly.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory compliance, the MD5 license is issued.
The entire process usually spans 3 to 4 months from start to finish.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Tracheotome
Preparing a precise and complete dossier is vital for a smooth approval. Required documents include:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and qualifications of Technical Staff
- Fire Safety NOC
- Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF) – detailed design and manufacturing process documentation (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File (PMF) – facility details and quality systems (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Compliance Checklist
- Risk Management File (Risk Management Guide)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System Documents (ISO 13485:2016 certification recommended)
Ensuring your documentation aligns with CDSCO expectations significantly reduces audit queries.
Import License Process (MD15) for Tracheotome
If you are importing Tracheotomes, the import license (MD15) application is submitted to the Central Licensing Authority through the CDSCO portal. The process entails:
- Document preparation including existing manufacturing license from the country of origin
- Submission of Form MD14 for the import license
- Responding to any queries raised by CDSCO
The MD15 license process usually takes 5 to 6 months; unlike manufacturing licenses, test licenses are not required here.
Import License Documents Required
Key documents for MD15 include:
- 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 License in India
- Company Constitution
Refer to our detailed Import License guide for step-by-step assistance.
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Processing Time | Key Milestones |
---|---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 to 2 months | Sample production and testing |
Manufacturing (MD5) | 3 to 4 months | Document prep, audit, queries, license grant |
Import License (MD15) | 5 to 6 months | Document prep, queries, license grant |
Planning your project with these timelines in mind helps avoid costly delays.
Government Fees and Costs for Tracheotome Licensing
For Class A devices such as the Tracheotome, fees are structured as follows:
- MD5 Manufacturing License: Rs. 5,000 per application + Rs. 500 per product
- Test License (MD13): Included in overall licensing process
- Import License (MD15): Site fee approx 50 per product (converted to INR as per prevailing rates)
Additional costs include notified body audit fees and testing laboratory charges, which vary by provider.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Incomplete Documentation: This is the leading cause of delays. Use detailed checklists and expert review before submission.
- Delayed Testing Results: Coordinate early with CDSCO-approved labs and submit samples promptly.
- Audit Non-Compliance: Prepare your manufacturing facility and QMS well in advance; conduct internal mock audits.
- Query Resolution Delays: Assign dedicated personnel for prompt communication with CDSCO and notified bodies.
Our hands-on experience enables us to preempt these issues and guide clients to timely approvals.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing can be complex, especially for first-time applicants. Our consultancy service offers:
- Comprehensive gap analysis of your current documentation and systems
- Assistance in Device Master and Plant Master File preparation
- Coordination with notified bodies and testing labs
- End-to-end application submission and follow-up
- Training on compliance and audit readiness
We have successfully helped over 500 companies launch their medical devices in India.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application for Tracheotome
- Assess your device class and applicable license type. For the Tracheotome, prepare for an MD5 manufacturing license.
- Begin compiling required documents immediately. Utilize our Device Master File guide and Plant Master File guide for support.
- Apply for the Test License (Form MD13) on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Send product samples to CDSCO-approved labs for testing.
- Prepare your quality system and manufacturing site for the audit by a notified body.
- Submit your manufacturing license application (Form MD3) once testing is complete.
- Respond quickly to any queries during the review process.
Starting early and following a structured approach ensures your Tracheotome reaches the Indian market without regulatory hiccups. Contact us today to leverage our expertise and streamline your CDSCO licensing journey.