How to Get BIS Certification for Toys: Step-by-Step Process (Complete Guide)
The toy industry in India is growing rapidly due to increasing demand for safe, educational, and innovative toys. However, with this growth comes the responsibility of ensuring child safety. To regulate quality and safety, the Government of India has made BIS certification for toys mandatory under the Toy Quality Control Order (QCO).
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national body responsible for setting quality benchmarks and ensuring that all toys sold in India meet strict safety requirements. Whether toys are manufactured domestically or imported, obtaining BIS certification is compulsory before they reach the market.
This detailed guide explains the step-by-step process of how to get BIS certification for toys, along with eligibility, documents, testing, compliance, and benefits.
Understanding BIS Certification for Toys
BIS certification for toys is a legal approval issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards that confirms a toy meets Indian safety and quality standards.
The certification ensures:
Toys are safe for children
No harmful chemicals are used
Mechanical and electrical safety standards are met
Products comply with Indian Standards (IS codes)
Once certified, manufacturers can use the ISI mark, which acts as proof of compliance and quality assurance.
For the Indian market, BIS certification is not optional—it is mandatory for both manufacturers and importers.
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification for Toys
To apply for BIS certification for toys, the following entities are eligible:
1. Indian Manufacturers
Companies manufacturing toys in India must obtain certification before selling.
2. Foreign Manufacturers
International brands must apply under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
3. Importers and Brand Owners
Importers must ensure all toys are BIS certified before entering Indian ports.
Eligibility ensures that only regulated and safe products enter the Indian toy market.
Pre-Application Preparation for BIS Certification for Toys
Before starting the application process for BIS certification for toys, manufacturers must prepare:
1. Identify Applicable Standards
IS 9873 (Parts 1–9) for non-electric toys
IS 15644 for electric toys
2. Product Design Compliance
Ensure toys are free from sharp edges, toxic materials, and choking hazards.
3. Internal Quality Control System
A strong quality management system is required for consistent production.
4. Documentation Preparation
Technical documents, safety reports, and factory details must be ready.
Proper preparation reduces delays during certification.
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Toys
The process of obtaining BIS certification for toys involves multiple structured steps:
Step 1: Online Application Submission
The first step is to apply through the official BIS portal.
You must:
Register as a manufacturer or importer
Fill out the application form
Provide product details
Select the applicable IS standard
This step officially initiates the certification process.
Step 2: Document Submission
Applicants must submit required documents, including:
Company registration certificate
Factory license and address proof
Product technical specifications
Manufacturing process details
Quality control documentation
Authorized signatory details
Accurate documentation is essential for smooth approval of BIS certification for toys.
Step 3: Sample Testing in BIS-Approved Laboratory
Product samples are sent to BIS-recognized laboratories for testing.
Tests include:
Mechanical Safety Tests
Sharp edge testing
Small parts safety
Impact resistance
Chemical Safety Tests
Lead content analysis
Heavy metal testing
Toxic substance evaluation
Flammability Tests
Fire resistance
Burning rate evaluation
Electrical Safety Tests (if applicable)
Battery safety
Shock resistance
Voltage control
Only products passing all tests qualify for further processing.
Step 4: Factory Inspection by BIS Officials
After successful testing, BIS officials conduct an on-site factory inspection.
They verify:
Manufacturing process quality
Machinery and equipment
Production consistency
Safety compliance systems
This ensures that the factory can consistently produce safe toys under BIS certification for toys requirements.
Step 5: Evaluation of Test Reports
Once inspection is complete, BIS reviews:
Laboratory test reports
Factory inspection findings
Submitted documents
If everything meets Indian Standards, the process moves forward.
Step 6: Grant of BIS License
If all conditions are satisfied, BIS issues the certification license.
This allows the manufacturer or importer to:
Use the ISI mark
Legally sell toys in India
Operate in compliance with BIS regulations
This is the final stage of obtaining BIS certification for toys.
Post-Certification Compliance Requirements
After receiving certification, ongoing compliance is mandatory:
Proper use of ISI mark on all products
Regular product quality testing
BIS surveillance audits
Renewal of certification before expiry
Maintaining production records
Non-compliance can lead to license cancellation.
Timeline for BIS Certification for Toys
The timeline depends on several factors:
Application review: 1–2 weeks
Product testing: 2–4 weeks
Factory inspection: scheduled based on availability
Final approval: 1–2 weeks after evaluation
Overall, the process may take 4 to 8 weeks depending on readiness.
Common Challenges in BIS Certification Process
Applicants may face challenges such as:
Delay in laboratory testing
Incomplete documentation
Misinterpretation of IS standards
Factory non-compliance issues
Inspection scheduling delays
Proper planning helps reduce these obstacles in BIS certification for toys.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Toys
Obtaining certification provides multiple advantages:
Legal permission to sell toys in India
Higher customer trust and brand reputation
Market access in retail and e-commerce
Assurance of child safety
Compliance with government regulations
Competitive advantage in the toy industry
BIS certification is essential for long-term business success.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining BIS certification for toys is a structured and mandatory requirement in India. It ensures that all toys meet strict safety, quality, and performance standards before reaching children.
By following the step-by-step process—application, documentation, testing, inspection, and approval—manufacturers and importers can successfully enter the Indian market.
In today’s regulated environment, BIS certification for toys is not just a legal requirement but a crucial step toward building trust, safety, and sustainable business growth.
FAQs on BIS Certification for Toys
1. What is BIS certification for toys?
It is a mandatory approval ensuring toys meet Indian safety and quality standards.
2. Is BIS certification compulsory for toys in India?
Yes, it is mandatory under the Toy Quality Control Order.
3. Who needs BIS certification for toys?
Manufacturers, importers, and foreign companies selling toys in India.
4. How long does BIS certification take?
It usually takes 4 to 8 weeks depending on the process.
5. What standards apply to toys?
IS 9873 and IS 15644 are the main standards.
6. What is ISI mark in toys?
It is a quality symbol indicating BIS-certified products.
7. Can imported toys be sold without BIS certification?
No, imported toys must be BIS certified before sale.
8. What tests are required for toys?
Mechanical, chemical, flammability, and electrical safety tests.
9. What happens if BIS rules are not followed?
Products may be seized and penalties imposed.
10. Why is BIS certification important for toys?
It ensures child safety, legal compliance, and market trust.