India’s growing technology and office equipment market has led to an increased demand for printers and plotters across sectors like education, business, design, and government. However, before you can sell or import these devices into the Indian market, you must meet a critical legal obligation — obtaining BIS CRS certification. Under Indian law, BIS CERTIFICATION FOR PRINTERS PLOTTERS is not optional — it is a legal requirement governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This article will explore why BIS CRS certification for printers and plotters is mandatory, how it affects manufacturers and importers, and what steps must be taken to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

What Is BIS Certification and CRS Scheme?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards authority responsible for ensuring that products comply with Indian quality and safety standards.

In 2012, the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) was introduced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). This scheme mandates that certain categories of electronics and IT products, including printers and plotters, be tested and registered before being marketed, sold, or imported into India.

Why BIS CRS Certification for Printers, Plotters Is Mandatory

The goal of the BIS CRS certification for printers and plotters is to:

 Protect consumer safety from electrical faults, overheating, or fire risks

Ensure product reliability and performance in line with Indian conditions

Prevent the import and sale of substandard or counterfeit electronics

 Standardize product quality across domestic and international brands

 Help buyers identify BIS-compliant products through a visible registration number

Thus, BIS CRS for printers, plotters is both a compliance regulation and a quality control mechanism.

Legal Notification and Applicability

According to the MeitY notification, printers and plotters are listed under electronic and IT goods that must comply with BIS standards.

Standard applicable:
 IS 13252 (Part 1):2010 – Information Technology Equipment – Safety – General Requirements
(This standard aligns with international IEC 60950-1 norms.)

Who Needs to Get BIS CRS Certification?

The certification is required for:

 Indian manufacturers producing printers or plotters

Foreign manufacturers exporting these products to India

 Importers and distributors dealing in unbranded or OEM devices

Private label brands using third-party factories

E-commerce sellers operating within India

No matter the business model, BIS CRS certification for printers, plotters is mandatory for market access in India.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Selling, importing, or advertising uncertified printers or plotters in India is a punishable offense under the BIS Act. Penalties include:

 Product seizure by customs or regulatory bodies

Monetary fines

Cancellation of import license or business registration

 Legal prosecution, especially for repeat offenses

 Don’t risk your business or brand reputation — ensure your products are certified.

Key Requirements for BIS Certification

To comply with BIS regulations, you must:

1. Identify the correct Indian Standard applicable to your product
   
   
2. Test the product at a BIS-recognized lab
   
   
3. Submit documentation and technical details via the BIS CRS portal
   
   
4. Undergo factory inspection (only for foreign applicants)
   
   
5. Receive the BIS registration number and affix it on the product
   

Once certified, your device can be legally sold anywhere in India.

Step-by-Step BIS CRS Certification Process for Printers and Plotters

Identify Product Classification and Standard

• Confirm that the product is categorized as a printer or plotter
  
• Applicable standard: IS 13252 (Part 1):2010
  

roduct Testing

• Submit your product sample to a BIS-approved laboratory
  
• Tests are conducted for
• Insulation resistance
  
• Power surge tolerance
  
• Electrical safety
  
• Fire resistance
  
• Structural durability
  

Document Preparation

Prepare and submit the following:

Business registration certificate

Factory layout and production flowchart

Trademark registration (if applicable)

Test report from BIS lab

IEC (for importers/exporters)

Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) details for foreign brands

Photo ID of authorized signatory

Declaration of conformityVisit 

Fill the application form, upload documents, and pay the fee

Track progress using the reference number provided

6 Grant of Certification

BIS issues a Registration Certificate valid for 2 years

You can now:

Sell/import the product legally

Print the BIS mark and registration number on product and packaging

Benefits of BIS CRS Certification for Printers and Plotters

Legal Compliance

Mandatory for all electronics covered under MeitY’s CRS list.

Market Access

Without BIS, your product cannot be sold in India.

Customer Confidence

BIS-certified devices are trusted for quality and safety.

Business Expansion

Get access to tenders, institutions, and e-commerce platforms.

Competitive Edge

Stand out from uncertified or grey-market competitors.

What Happens After Certification?

Once you get your BIS CRS certification for printers, plotters:

Affix the BIS Standard Mark on the product body, packaging, and user manual

Keep copies of the certification available for audit or customs checks

Ensure consistency in product quality to avoid suspension of the certificate

Renew the certification every 2 years

Conclusion

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. For any brand — domestic or international — looking to sell printers and plotters in India, BIS CRS certification is a legal gateway to market access. It’s not just a formality but a national quality assurance standard that protects end-users and ensures reliable products. By securing your BIS CRS certification for printers, plotters, you demonstrate your commitment to safety, compliance, and consumer satisfaction. From manufacturers to importers, this is a crucial step in ensuring your product is legally approved, market-ready, and competitive in one of the world’s fastest-growing electronics markets.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for printers and plotters in India?

Yes, as per MeitY’s Compulsory Registration Scheme, it is mandatory for market entry.

Q2. What is the BIS standard applicable to these products?

The applicable standard is IS 13252 (Part 1):2010, aligned with international safety norms.

Q3. Can foreign manufacturers get BIS certification?

Yes, but they must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) and undergo factory inspection.

Q4. What is the validity of the BIS certificate?

The certificate is valid for 2 years and can be renewed upon expiration.

Q5. What are the risks of selling non-BIS certified printers/plotters?

Such products are subject to customs seizure, legal action, and heavy penalties under Indian law.