How to Check BIS Certificate Status Online?

The BIS Care app provides a quick and easy way for consumers to check a product’s authenticity on the go.

1. Download the App:

Get the official “BIS Care” app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

2. Verify Details:

• Open the app and select the “Verify Licence Details” section.
• Enter the CM/L number, R-number, or HUID code. The app provides instant results from the BIS database.

3. Use QR Code or Label:

Some products have a QR code. The BIS Care app has a scanner that can be used to scan the code directly to get the product’s certification details. This is the fastest method.

What are the Common Issues When Doing a BIS Certificate Check, and How to Troubleshoot?

If a search on the BIS portal returns “No Certificate Found,” it’s usually due to one of the following issues:

• Typing Errors: Even a single incorrect digit or letter in the CM/L number, R-number, or firm name can lead to failed results. Always double-check the details before submitting.
  
• Product Not Covered Under BIS Scheme: Some items are not included in the mandatory BIS certification list. Verify whether your product falls under the Compulsory Certification Scheme before searching.
  
• Portal Update Lag: Newly issued or recently renewed certificates may take time to appear on the BIS database. The portal is updated periodically, so minor delays of a few days or weeks are possible.

What if the Search Returns “No Certificate Found”?

Don’t panic if the BIS portal shows “No Certificate Found.” This message doesn’t always mean the product lacks certification; several minor issues can trigger it. Here’s what you should check before drawing any conclusions:

• Check for Mistyping: The most common reason is simply a typo in the CM/L number, R-number, or firm’s name. Double-check that you’ve entered the information exactly as it appears on the product or packaging. A single misplaced digit or letter can cause the search to fail.
• Verify the Scheme: The product you’re checking might not be covered under a mandatory BIS scheme. Not all products sold in India require BIS certification. For example, while electrical cables are under the ISI Mark Scheme, many types of furniture are not. Confirm if the product belongs to one of the 380+ product categories under the BIS Compulsory Certification Scheme. (To know which products require BIS certification, check this detailed list.)
• Consider Portal Delays: There can sometimes be a delay between a new certificate being issued and its appearance on the public portal. This is more common with recently certified products. The database is updated periodically, so a delay of a few days or weeks might occur.

Pro Tip: If the exact firm name doesn’t return results, try entering only the first few words of the name to broaden the search and increase accuracy.

How to Contact BIS for Clarifications?

If you have ruled out the above possibilities and still can’t find the certificate, it’s best to contact the Bureau of Indian Standards directly.

• Consumer Complaints: For general inquiries or to report a product that falsely claims to have a BIS certificate, you can contact the Complaints Management and Enforcement Department at BIS.
• BIS Regional and Branch Offices: BIS has a network of regional and branch offices across India. Each office has jurisdiction over specific geographical areas and product types. You can find the contact details for the relevant office on the official BIS website.
• Email and Phone: The BIS website provides specific contact email addresses and phone numbers for different departments, such as the Product Certification Department or the CRS Registration Department. You can email them your specific query, including the product details and the search results.
• Online Enquiry Form: The BIS website also features an online enquiry form where you can submit a detailed query. This is a good way to get an official response from the correct department.

Contacting BIS directly is the best way to get a definitive answer and ensure consumer safety.

Importance of BIS Certificate Verification in India

Verification of a BIS certificate is crucial for ensuring a product’s legitimacy and compliance with Indian standards. It helps protect consumers and has significant implications for businesses, from legal standing to brand reputation and market access.

1. Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

For products under the Compulsory Certification Scheme (CCS), not having a valid BIS certificate is a legal offense. The BIS Act, 2016, provides for severe penalties, which can include:

• Monetary Fines: Substantial fines, which can be up to five times the value of the goods produced or sold. 

For example, if uncertified electronic goods worth ₹10 lakh are sold, the penalty may go up to ₹50 lakh under BIS regulations.

• Imprisonment: In cases where non-compliance leads to severe harm to public health or safety, the offender may face imprisonment.
• Product Recalls and Bans: Authorities can order a complete recall of non-compliant products from the market and ban their sale, leading to significant financial losses.
• Seizure of Goods: Customs authorities have the power to seize imported goods that do not have the necessary BIS certification, preventing them from entering the Indian market.

2. Consumer Protection

The BIS mark is a symbol of trust and safety for consumers. By verifying a certificate, consumers are:

• Protected from Hazardous Products: BIS certification ensures that products, especially those like electrical appliances and helmets, have undergone rigorous testing for safety and quality. This protects consumers from potential hazards and injuries.
• Assured Product Quality: The presence of a valid BIS mark guarantees that the product conforms to the relevant Indian Standard (IS). This helps consumers make informed choices and ensures they are not misled by substandard goods.
• Empowered with Redressal: Empowered with Redressal: The BIS framework empowers consumers by providing a platform to seek redressal for grievances. This applies to manufacturers of certified products that fail to meet quality expectations.

3. Market Access (Imports, Exports)

BIS certification is a key factor for businesses involved in international trade with India.

• For Importers: BIS certification is a mandatory requirement for clearing customs for products under the CCS. Without a valid certificate, imported goods can be seized or rejected at the port, leading to significant financial loss and supply chain disruptions.
• For Exporters: While primarily a domestic standard, BIS certification can facilitate exports from India. Products that meet Indian standards often align with international norms, reducing technical barriers to trade and enhancing their competitiveness in foreign markets.

4. Brand Reputation

A valid BIS certificate is more than just a legal requirement; it’s a powerful tool for building and maintaining brand reputation.

• Enhanced Credibility: A BIS-certified product signals to consumers that a brand is committed to quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. This builds consumer confidence and loyalty.
• Competitive Advantage: In a crowded marketplace, the BIS mark can be a key differentiator, helping a brand stand out from non-certified competitors.
• Risk Mitigation: Proactively obtaining and maintaining BIS certification helps a company avoid reputational damage. It also prevents financial losses that can result from product recalls, fines, and consumer lawsuits.

Conclusion

Verifying a BIS certificate is essential for ensuring product safety, legal compliance, and consumer trust. From ISI-marked appliances to hallmarked jewelry, confirming authenticity protects buyers, sellers, and manufacturers alike.

The process is straightforward: gather the necessary details, use the official BIS portal or BIS Care app, and interpret the results carefully. Being aware of common issues, such as typos or portal delays, can save time and prevent unnecessary confusion.

Before buying, selling, or importing products, always check the BIS certificate. If you encounter issues or suspect a fake certificate, report it immediately to BIS or connect with experts like RegisterKaro to ensure compliance and consumer safety.