Issue of Licences for Manufacturing, Repairing, and Dealing with Weights, Measures, Weighing, and Measuring Instruments Used in Commercial Establishments

In commercial establishments, accurate measurement is crucial for fair trade and consumer trust. To ensure standardization and precision, the government regulates the manufacturing, repairing, and trading of weights, measures, weighing, and measuring instruments. The process of obtaining a licence to engage in these activities is governed by legal provisions under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and related rules. 

Types of Licences Issued

Authorities issue different types of licences depending on the nature of the activity involved. These include:

1. Manufacturing Licence – Required for companies or individuals engaged in the production of weighing and measuring instruments.
2. Repairing License – Needed by businesses or individuals involved in servicing and repairing such instruments to ensure accuracy.
3. Dealing Licence – Mandatory for traders and distributors who sell or supply weights and measures.

Eligibility Criteria

To obtain a licence, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Manufacturers should have adequate infrastructure, machinery, and technical expertise.
• Repairers must possess the necessary skills and facilities to calibrate and maintain weighing and measuring instruments.
• Dealers should ensure that all products they sell comply with prescribed standards.
• The applicant should not have any record of violation of legal metrology laws.
• The premises where the business is conducted must comply with regulatory requirements.

Documents Required for Licence Application

To apply for a licence, applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Application Form – Duly filled and signed.
2. Identity and Address Proof – Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or any government-issued identity proof.
3. Business Registration Certificate – Proof of registration such as GST registration, MSME certificate, or trade licence.
4. Proof of Premises – Ownership document, lease agreement, or rent agreement.
5. Technical Qualification (if applicable) – Certification or experience proof for repairers.
6. Partnership Deed/Memorandum of Association – For firms and companies.
7. List of Equipment and Machinery – For manufacturers and repairers.
8. NOC from Local Authority – If applicable.
9. Affidavit stating compliance with the Legal Metrology Act.

Application Process

The process for obtaining a licence typically involves the following steps:

Step 1: Submission of Application

Applicants need to fill out the prescribed application form and submit it along with the required documents to the concerned Legal Metrology Department in their respective state or region.

Step 2: Verification and Inspection

Authorities review the application and documents. In some cases, an inspection of the premises may be conducted to verify compliance with regulatory requirements.

Step 3: Fee Payment

Applicants are required to pay the prescribed fees, which vary based on the type of licence and location.

Step 4: Grant of Licence

Once all verifications are completed and compliance is ensured, the department issues the licence, allowing the applicant to commence business legally.

Validity and Renewal

• Licenses are usually valid for one to five years, depending on state regulations.
• Renewal should be done before expiry by submitting a renewal application, required documents, and the applicable fee.
• Authorities may inspect the premises before renewing the licence to ensure compliance.

Conditions for Licence Holders

All licence holders must adhere to the following conditions:

1. Compliance with Legal Metrology Standards – All instruments should conform to the standards prescribed under the Legal Metrology Act.
2. Maintenance of Records – Dealers, manufacturers, and repairers must maintain detailed records of their transactions and servicing activities.
3. Inspection and Verification – Instruments should be periodically verified and stamped by the Legal Metrology Department to ensure accuracy.
4. No Alteration of Instruments – Licence holders must not tamper with or modify instruments in a way that affects measurement accuracy.
5. Consumer Awareness – Traders must ensure customers receive correct measurements during transactions.

Benefits of Obtaining a Licence

Having a valid licence provides several advantages:

1. Legitimacy – Ensures businesses operate legally without facing penalties.
2. Consumer Trust – Customers are more likely to trust businesses that comply with metrology laws.
3. Standardization – Ensures accurate and fair trade practices.
4. Avoidance of Legal Issues – Reduces the risk of fines or legal action.
5. Business Growth – Enables participation in government tenders and larger commercial transactions.

Common Questions

Q1: How long does it take to obtain a license for manufacturing, repairing, or dealing with weighing and measuring instruments?

A1: The processing time varies by state but generally takes between 15 days to 2 months, depending on the verification process and inspections required.

Q2: Can I transfer my license if I shift my business to a different location?

A2: No, a license is location-specific. If you shift your business, you must apply for a fresh license or seek approval from the relevant legal metrology authority for a location change.