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IMEI Registration & TAC Approval ​

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IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) registration is the process of recording a mobile device’s unique 15-digit code to ensure authenticity and lawful network access. It is mandatory for manufacturers, importers, and Brand owner to comply with GSMA TAC allocation and technical guidelines for telecom approval. This helps prevent counterfeit or stolen devices from operating on networks. Lets understand how Proper IMEI registration ensures global compliance and seamless device connectivity across markets along with process and cost.

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How to Register IMEI Numbers: Step-by-Step Process & Charges

Before we go ahead with the process of IMEI  registration, we need to understand the terminology associated with IMEI registration. 

What is an IMEI Number?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code used to identify every mobile device globally.
It ensures each handset is uniquely identifiable, traceable, secure, and compliant with telecom regulations of the country where it operates. IMEI numbers are generated based on the TAC (Type Allocation Code) issued by the GSMA, the global mobile industry association, based on the assessment of the assessment reporting body of the GSMA.

How is the IMEI Number generated? 

An IMEI number is a 15-digit unique code generated using a TAC (Type Allocation Code) issued by GSMA.
The first 8 digits define the device model, followed by a unique serial number and a check digit for validation.
This ensures every mobile handset is globally identifiable and traceable.

What is A TAC in an IMEI, and how can we get one? 

A TAC code (Type Allocation Code) is an 8-digit identifier assigned by GSMA to recognize a specific mobile device model and brand.
Manufacturers or brand owners can obtain a TAC by applying through a GSMA-accredited Reporting Body (RB), providing product details, test reports, and brand authorization for approval.

Who Can Apply for This Certificate?

The IMEI helps the user identify the brand and model of the device that is capable of connecting to a telecome network. A telecommunication device manufacturer or the approved brand owner of a telecommunication device can get the IMEI registered by applying for the IMEI registration by registering a TAC (Type Allocation Code) through a GSMA-accredited Reporting Body (RB).
Once the TAC is approved, manufacturers can generate and register IMEI numbers linked to that TAC for each device model.

List of Documents Required for IMEI Brand & TAC Registeration

Manufacturer’s / Brand Owner’s Business License

Proof that the applicant is a legitimate manufacturer or brand owner of the mobile device.

Company / Organization Registration Documents

Includes Certificate of Incorporation, Tax ID / GST, and other relevant business licenses.

Director & Company Details

A letter on company letterhead listing directors, contact details, and business profile.

Device Technical Specifications

Full device information — model name, model number, hardware configuration, and software version.

Test Reports

Required if the brand is unaware of the band profile; band profiling tests may be conducted for accuracy.

Bank Account Confirmation Letter

Confirms the company’s official bank account details for verification and record purposes.

Import Registration Certificate (if applicable)

Mandatory for companies importing devices into their respective countries.

Trademark Certificate / Brand Authorization

Proof of brand ownership or authorization for the brand name under which IMEI is being registered.

These documents help validate your brand’s authenticity and ensure smooth brand and IMEI  with GSMA. Some documents may change from brand owner/manufacuters country to country

Step-by-Step Process for IMEI Brand Registration and TAC Application

Step 1: Document Preparation and GSMA Brand Approval
Start by preparing all required documents for brand registration and GSMA approval.
This includes company incorporation papers, trademark details, and other business credentials.
Once verified, GSMA grants brand approval and login credentials for TAC application.

Step 2: Compliance Testing for Band Profile (If Required)
If your device’s band profile or frequency range is unknown, conduct the necessary compliance tests.
These may include RF exposure, SAR, or electrical safety testing to validate the device’s compatibility.

Step 3: Purchase of TAC Credits
Before applying for TAC, purchase TAC credits from GSMA.
These credits are required to initiate and process the TAC allocation request.

Step 4: Submission of Model and Technical Details
Submit a complete TAC application with device specifications, model details, and technical information to GSMA through an accredited Reporting Body (RB) in your region.
The RB evaluates and forwards the request for final TAC approval and allocation.

Step 5: IMEI Generation Using TAC
After receiving TAC approval, generate 15-digit IMEI numbers derived from the assigned TAC.
Each TAC can generate up to one million unique IMEI numbers.
If additional IMEIs are needed for the same model, a new TAC must be obtained.

Products which Require IMEI Registration

IMEI registration is mandatory for all devices equipped with a cellular module or SIM-based connectivity. Below are the key product categories that require IMEI certification and registration with GSMA.

Mobile Phones – Includes all types of handsets such as smartphones, feature phones, and basic GSM mobile phones that operate on 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G networks.

Tablets with Cellular Connectivity – Tablets featuring SIM card slots or cellular modems capable of connecting to mobile networks must undergo IMEI registration.

Smart Devices with Cellular Modules – Devices like smartwatches, connected healthcare wearables, smart meters, and vehicle telematics systems require IMEI registration for tracking and compliance.

Embedded Cellular Devices – Products integrated with cellular chips, such as automotive GPS systems, fleet tracking units, industrial IoT controllers, and remote monitoring equipment, must have registered IMEIs.

Data Cards and USB Dongles – Includes USB modems, data cards, and portable Wi-Fi routers (MiFi devices) that connect through GSM/4G/5G networks.

Other Cellular-Enabled Devices – Equipment like POS terminals, GPS trackers, and cellular-based security or surveillance systems also require IMEI registration for network authorization.

If your product connects to a mobile network using a SIM or embedded module, it must have a valid GSMA-issued IMEI.

Timeline

The complete IMEI approval process typically takes around 10–12 working days, depending on the availability and accuracy of the required documents.
It usually requires about 5 working days for brand registration and GSMA approval, including verification of the company, trademark, and authorization documents.
Another 5–7 working days are needed for TAC (Type Allocation Code) assessment and approval by the GSMA-accredited Reporting Body.

Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or additional technical clarifications are requested during the review.

IMEI Registration Cost & Commercials

S.No Service Description Cost  Remarks
1 TAC Purchase Fee USD 450 Charged by GSMA for TAC (Type Allocation Code) credit purchase for each model.
2 Service & Documentation for Brand Registration INR 20,000 / USD 300 Applicable for new brands; includes GSMA brand approval, login credential setup, and document verification.
3 Service & Documentation for TAC Approval (For already approved brands) INR 15,000 / USD 250 Covers TAC documentation, technical evaluation, and model submission under an existing GSMA-approved brand.
4 Taxes & Charges As Applicable Local VAT/GST, payment gateway, and international banking charges apply based on the mode of payment and country.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The TAC (Type Allocation Code) consists of the first 8 digits of the 15-digit IMEI number. It is a unique code issued by the GSMA that identifies the specific manufacturer and model of a mobile device. For example, all iPhone 15 Pro Max units will share the same TAC, while the remaining digits of the IMEI are unique to each individual handset.

In India, the process involves two main stages:

  1. Global Level: The manufacturer applies to the GSMA to obtain a TAC Certificate for the device model.

  2. National Level (India): The manufacturer or importer must register on the ICDR (Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction) portal (icdr.ceir.gov.in). They upload the GSMA TAC certificate and the list of specific IMEI numbers to be imported or sold. Once validated, the system issues an IMEI Certificate required for customs clearance.

The term “TAC number phone” refers to the Type Allocation Code embedded within a phone’s IMEI. It acts as the device’s “ID card” for mobile networks, telling the network exactly what kind of device is connecting (e.g., brand, model, marketing name). Without a valid TAC, a phone may not be recognized correctly by service providers.

No, it is strictly illegal. Under the Prevention of Tampering of the Mobile Device Equipment Identification Number Rules (2017) and the Telecommunications Act, intentionally removing, obliterating, changing, or altering the IMEI number of a mobile device is a punishable offense. This is done to prevent the use of stolen or counterfeit devices in criminal activities.

To get a TAC code, a device manufacturer must apply to the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) or an authorized reporting body (like TUV SUD BABT). The applicant must provide:

  • Brand name and Model name.

  • Device specifications (marketing name, device type).

  • Manufacturer details.

  • Payment of the requisite fees.

  • Legal Compliance: It ensures the device meets government regulations (like DoT mandates in India) for import and sale.

  • Theft Protection: Registered IMEIs can be tracked and blocked if the device is lost or stolen.

  • Anti-Counterfeit: It verifies that the device is genuine and not a fake or “grey market” product.

  • Network Compatibility: It ensures the device is correctly identified by mobile networks for optimal service.

  • For Manufacturers/Importers (Commercial): You must register the IMEI series on the ICDR (Device Setu) Portal managed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

  • For Personal Use (Lost/Stolen): If you are an end-user wishing to block a lost phone, you use the CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) portal.

Having a valid TAC ensures:

  1. Global Recognition: The device is recognized internationally as a legitimate product from a specific brand.

  2. Quality Assurance: It signals that the device model has gone through the standard manufacturing registration process.

  3. Analytics: It allows manufacturers and networks to track how many devices of a specific model are active.

Yes. TAC is not specific to an operating system; it is a hardware standard. Every mobile device that uses a SIM card (Android, iOS, Feature Phones, Tablets, Dongles, and IoT devices) requires a TAC as part of its IMEI. Therefore, all legitimate Android phones have a TAC.

The primary purpose of the TAC is identification. It allows mobile networks and governments to:

  • Identify the device type (e.g., is this a 4G smartphone or a 5G tablet?).

  • Verify the manufacturer (e.g., Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi).

  • Prevent the connection of unapproved or harmful devices to the network.

  • Facilitate security measures like blocking stolen phones based on their model identity.