BIS Certification for Toys – Complete Guide to BIS CRS License for Toy Manufacturers

What is BIS Certification for Toys?

The Bureau of Indian Standards BIS Certification for Toys is a mandatory conformity assessment under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. This regulation ensures that all toys imported, manufactured, or sold in India adhere to strict quality and safety benchmarks set by Indian Standards to safeguard the health and wellbeing of children.

As per the Toy (Quality Control) Order, 2020, it is mandatory for toy manufacturers, including importers and foreign entities, to obtain BIS certification before placing their toys on the Indian market.

Why BIS Certification for Toys is Mandatory

The primary objective of BIS certification is to ensure that toys meet safety standards such as mechanical and physical safety, flammability, chemical composition, and electrical safety. These standards help prevent hazards like choking, electrical shocks, toxic material exposure, and injuries.

As per the Quality Control Order (QCO) notified by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), no toy can be sold in India without the BIS ISI Mark, making this certification a non-negotiable legal requirement.

Applicable Indian Standards for Toy Certification

Toys in India are regulated under two main Indian Standards issued by BIS:

• IS 9873 (Part 1): 2019 – Mechanical and physical properties

• IS 15644: 2006 – Safety of electric toys

Additional parts of IS 9873 (Parts 2 to 7) may also apply depending on the type of toy, such as:

• IS 9873 (Part 2): 2017 – Flammability

• IS 9873 (Part 3): 2017 – Migration of certain elements

• IS 9873 (Part 4 to 7) – Specific hazards related to certain toy types

Who Needs BIS Certification for Toys?

The following entities are required to obtain BIS certification:

• Indian Toy Manufacturers

• Foreign Toy Manufacturers exporting to India

• Importers of Toys into India

• E-commerce Platforms (for compliance checks)

• Retailers & Wholesalers (for selling BIS-compliant products only)

Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to apply on their behalf.

Process to Obtain BIS Certification for Toys

The process to secure a BIS License under Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme) for toys involves multiple steps, each with stringent documentation and compliance requirements.

1. Identify Applicable Standards

Determine the applicable Indian Standards based on the toy category—non-electric or electric—and other features like materials and mechanisms.

2. Setup BIS-Compliant Manufacturing Facility

Ensure your manufacturing unit adheres to BIS criteria including:

• In-house quality control lab

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

• Skilled staff

• Traceable raw material records

• Testing equipment as per BIS

3. Submit Application (Form V)

Apply online on the Manakonline Portal under Scheme-I and submit the Form V along with:

• Factory layout & process flow

• Raw material list & suppliers

• Test reports from BIS-approved labs

• Affidavits & undertaking documents

• Authorization letter (for AIR in foreign cases)

4. Factory Audit by BIS Officer

A BIS officer conducts an on-site inspection to verify the:

• Manufacturing capabilities

• Quality control procedures

• Testing equipment

• Sample collection for lab testing

5. Sample Testing

Samples drawn from the unit are tested at BIS-approved laboratories for conformity to relevant standards. This includes checks for:

• Sharp edges

• Choking hazards

• Electric leakage (for electric toys)

• Toxic chemical levels

6. Grant of BIS License

Upon satisfactory audit and test results, BIS issues a BIS license (CM/L number) valid for one to two years, which must be renewed periodically.

Documents Required for BIS Certification for Toys

Below are the crucial documents required:

• Factory registration proof

• Valid business license

• Product specifications & catalog

• In-house lab setup details

• Test equipment calibration certificates

• Organizational chart

• Quality manual

• Undertaking & affidavit

• Test reports from BIS-recognized labs

• Authorization letter (for AIR in foreign cases)

BIS Certification for Imported Toys

Foreign manufacturers exporting toys to India must apply for the BIS license before shipment. They must:

• Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)

• Submit the application under Scheme-I

• Undergo BIS audit (remote audit possible in some cases)

• Comply with Indian Standards

• Affix ISI mark with BIS license number on toys

Customs clearance is not allowed without a valid BIS license, making it critical for exporters to ensure compliance in advance.

ISI Marking Requirements for Toys

All certified toys must have the ISI mark clearly visible on the product or packaging. It must include:

• The ISI logo

• CM/L number (License number)

• Standard number (e.g., IS 9873 or IS 15644)

Improper or misleading marking is treated as non-compliance and may lead to penalties, license cancellation, or legal action.

Validity and Renewal of BIS License

• Initial validity: One to two years

• Renewal: Every 1 or 2 years depending on license type

• Renewal requires:

  • Updated test reports

  • Renewal fee

  • Audit (if required)

  • Continued compliance proof

Failing to renew the BIS license results in loss of certification and prohibition on product sales.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to obtain BIS certification or misuse of the ISI mark may attract:

• Product seizure by authorities

• Heavy penalties under BIS Act

• Recall of products

• Blacklisting of manufacturer/importer

• Legal prosecution

Hence, strict adherence to BIS norms is critical for uninterrupted business operations in the Indian toy market.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Toy Manufacturers

• Legal compliance with Indian laws

• Increased brand trust and credibility

• Access to Indian retail and e-commerce platforms

• Competitive advantage over non-certified brands

• Reduced product recalls and safety risks

How We Can Help You Get BIS Certification for Toys

We offer end-to-end consulting support for Indian and foreign toy manufacturers, including:

• Documentation assistance

• Factory setup compliance

• BIS audit preparation

• Lab testing coordination

• AIR appointment (for foreign brands)

• Timely renewal & post-license support

With our expertise, you can obtain BIS certification seamlessly, quickly, and with full compliance.