If you’re exporting cars, two-wheelers, three-wheelers, EVs, or automotive components into India, this is non-negotiable. Let’s break it down clearly, step by step, like we always do.
What is TAC Approval / TAC Certificate?
TAC stands for Type Approval Certificate (sometimes called CMVR Type Approval).
It’s an official certification issued by the Indian government proving that a new vehicle model or automotive component fully meets India’s safety, emissions, performance, and technical standards under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) 1989.
Think of it as India’s “green light” before you can legally manufacture, import, or sell that product in the country. No TAC = no sales. It’s enforced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
It covers everything from motorcycles and cars to electric vehicles, tyres, brakes, lights, seat belts, batteries, and more.
Why does India require it?
- Road safety (one of the highest accident rates globally)
- Environmental protection (strict emission norms like BS-VI)
- Consumer protection
- Fair competition in the world’s 3rd-largest auto market
Who Issues the TAC Certificate?
The two main authorized agencies are: • ARAI – Automotive Research Association of India (Pune) • ICAT – International Centre for Automotive Technology (Manesar, Haryana)
A few other labs are also approved for specific categories, but ARAI and ICAT handle the vast majority of applications.
How to Get TAC Approval in India – Step-by-Step (2026 Updated Process)
Here’s the exact roadmap every serious player follows:
Step 1: Identify Your Product Category & Applicable Standards Every vehicle or part falls under specific Automotive Industry Standards (AIS). For example:
- AIS-038 for electric vehicles
- AIS-003 for horns
- AIS-037 for safety glass, etc.
Pro tip: Download the latest AIS list from the MoRTH or ARAI website before you start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Technical File (AIS-007 Format) You’ll need a detailed technical package including:
- Complete technical specifications
- Engineering drawings and layouts
- Bill of materials
- User & service manuals
- Previous test reports (if any)
- Company registration documents
- Authorized Indian Representative letter (mandatory for foreign OEMs)
Step 3: Submit Application Online Applications now go through the official CMVR-TAS portal (or directly on ARAI/ICAT portals). You select the testing agency (ARAI or ICAT), pay the application fee, and upload everything.
Step 4: Product Testing Send prototype samples to the approved lab for full testing as per the relevant AIS standards. This includes crash tests, emissions, EMC, safety, durability – the works. Foreign manufacturers can sometimes do certain tests overseas under supervision, but most critical tests must be done in India.
Step 5: Factory Audit & Conformity of Production (COP) For manufacturers, the agency will inspect your production facility to ensure consistent quality. COP approval is required alongside the TAC for ongoing production.
Step 6: Get Your TAC Certificate Once everything passes, the agency issues the Type Approval Certificate. It’s usually valid for 5 years or the model life (whichever comes first). You’ll also get a separate COP certificate for mass production.
Typical Timeline: 4–12 weeks depending on complexity and how quickly you respond to queries.
Important Tips for 2026
- Foreign companies must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who handles the entire process.
- Costs vary widely – from a few thousand USD for simple components to tens of thousands for full vehicle approval.
- Always work with an experienced compliance consultant to avoid costly re-testing.
- Electric vehicles and new-age components have slightly different (but still mandatory) procedures.
Bottom line: Getting TAC approval is your passport into the Indian automotive market. Skip it, and your shipment gets stuck at customs or you face heavy penalties.
If you’re planning to launch a vehicle or component in India in 2026 or beyond, start this process early – it’s one of the biggest bottlenecks for new entrants.
Drop your specific product (car, bike, EV, component?) in the comments below and I’ll tell you exactly which AIS standards apply and which agency is best for you.
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We’ll see you in the next video – where we’ll probably be talking about BIS, BEE Star Rating, or WPC/TEC approvals next.
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