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- IS 8144 includes all kinds of multi-purpose dry batteries like AA, AAA, and D-cell under India’s BIS Product Certification Scheme (Scheme-I).
- BIS Certification for Dry Batteries is compulsory for the purposes of manufacture, sale, or import of such batteries
- Manufacturers, both domestic and foreign, must send their batteries to BIS designated labs for testing and complete a factory audit.
- Common mistakes such as labeling errors, or using obsolete samples, can result in rejection .
- Diligence Certifications offers comprehensive support in terms of documentation, lab testing, filing the application, and preparation for factory audit.
How Indian BIS Laws Are Impacting Battery Shipments
In April 2024, a well-known overseas electronics company saw their consignment of AA batteries held up at Nhava Sheva port. The reason? The batteries lacked a valid ISI mark license under IS 8144. The company had assumed that CRS registration was enough — an expensive mistake that caused shipment delays, storage penalties, and a potential loss of business in the Indian market.
Now that dry batteries (zinc-carbon and alkaline) are regulated under the BIS Product Certification Scheme (Scheme-I), being non-certified cannot be afforded by manufacturers. BIS certification for dry batteries is more than a quality threshold; it can also be used as legal reference by customs offices, market surveillance and/or audit processes. You need to know the IS 8144 ISI license process in relation to dry batteries if you are a domestic manufacturer or an importer to avoid costly legal issues and to win buyer confidence.
What is IS 8144?
The Indian Standard IS 8144 is created by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for dry batteries which are intended for general and multi-purpose use. It sets out demanding quality, safety, and performance criteria that all manufacturers must comply with in order to legally sell these products in India.
This standard is applicable to common battery types such as:
- R6 (AA)
- R03 (AAA)
- R20 (D-cell)
- Other cylindrical or flat-shaped variants typically used in portable and handheld devices
Typical applications include:
- Remote controls
- Flashlights
- Toys and children’s gadgets
- Radios and other compact electronic accessories
The IS 8144 standard ensures that dry batteries are not only safe and leak-proof but also meet the required voltage and discharge performance for reliable consumer use.
“IS 8144 ensures dry batteries meet India’s safety, quality, and consumer performance standards.”
What is BIS?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards body and is a part of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. BIS was set up to serve the public good through standardization, quality control, and certification, and influences different products and or consumer products.
Its core responsibilities include:
- Formulating Indian Standards (IS)
- Conducting product certification under Scheme-I (ISI Mark)
- Running Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) for electronics
- Performing factory inspections, testing, and market surveillance
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is responsible for ensuring compliance with IS 8144 regarding batteries, such as by granting ISI mark licenses. An ISI mark found on a product provides an organization’s guarantee that the product conforms to Indian Standards for reliability, safety, and performance for consumers.
Many product categories — particularly those connected with health, safety and the environment — legally require BIS certification. Dry batteries are subject to BIS regulation due both to usage and risks.
Why BIS Certification for Dry Batteries is Mandatory
Under the latest BIS notification and schedule, dry batteries listed under IS 8144 must carry the ISI mark before they are sold, distributed, or imported in India. This includes both Indian and foreign brands.
Legal Requirements:
- BIS license mandatory under Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme)
- Regulated under The BIS Act 2016
- Enforcement supported by MeitY and Ministry of Consumer Affairs
Dry battery products cannot be imported or sold without:
- BIS license number (CM/L) printed on the packaging
- Conformance to IS 8144 labeling and performance criteria
Non-compliance can result in:
- Product seizure at port
- Legal penalties
- Brand image damage
Who Needs BIS Certification?
Any manufacturer or importer of dry batteries into the Indian market must obtain BIS certification under Scheme I (ISI Mark). This applies to:
- Indian manufacturers
- Foreign manufacturers (via Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme – FMCS)
- OEMs and private label sellers
BIS ISI Certification Process for Dry batteries
The ISI mark licensing process under BIS involves strict evaluation, both at the product and factory level. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Application Filing
- Submit application through BIS Manak portal
- Select IS 8144 and relevant product type (e.g., R6, R03)
2. Sample Testing
- Submit production samples to a BIS-recognized lab
- Testing parameters include leakage, voltage, labeling, and capacity
3. Factory Audit
- BIS officials visit the manufacturing facility (India or abroad)
- Verify production control, testing equipment, labeling standards
4. Grant of License
- Upon successful testing and audit, BIS issues CM/L license
- Manufacturer can now apply the ISI mark on battery packaging
Testing Requirements for IS 8144 & Approved Labs
Dry batteries under IS 8144 must undergo strict testing at a BIS-recognized laboratory. These labs are accredited to evaluate batteries for:
Key Test Parameters:
- Nominal voltage
- Capacity retention
- Leakage resistance
- Discharge under various loads
- Environmental performance
- Labeling correctness
Testing must be done only in India — foreign lab reports are not accepted.
A major brand faced rejection because they used an NABL lab not recognized by BIS. They had to repeat testing, which delayed their certification by 2 months.
“Selecting a BIS-approved lab is non-negotiable. One mistake in voltage rating or label color can lead to rejections.”
Common Mistakes in IS 8144 Compliance
Many manufacturers underestimate the documentation and technical scrutiny involved in ISI licensing. Here are common pitfalls:
- Using old or expired product samples for testing
- Submitting incomplete test reports
- Ignoring mandatory factory marking and labeling rules
- Choosing the wrong variant of IS 8144
- Skipping pre-audit readiness checks
“Even one mislabeled battery can lead to rejection of the entire lot.”
- Conduct a mock internal audit before BIS inspection
- Use updated product brochures and label layouts
- Engage a consultant to vet your documents
How Diligence Certifications Supports BIS Certification for Dry Batteries
Diligence Certifications offers complete A-to-Z assistance for battery manufacturers seeking BIS certification under IS 8144:
Our Services Include:
- End-to-end application preparation
- Coordination with BIS-approved labs for testing
- Label design review and approval
- Mock audits and factory readiness
- Audit scheduling and inspector coordination
“With our support, 90% of brands pass BIS factory audit on their first attempt.”
Cost & Timeline for IS 8144 ISI Mark License
The cost and timeline vary based on your business location, battery types, and chosen lab. As a general overview:
- Indian Manufacturers:
- Timeline: 4–6 weeks
- Timeline: 4–6 weeks
- Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS):
- Timeline: 6–10 weeks
- Timeline: 6–10 weeks
Cost depends on testing charges, BIS fees, and consultant support.
Contact Diligence Certifications for an exact quote customized to your product range.
IS 8144 BIS License Validity & Renewal
Once granted, the ISI mark license for dry batteries is valid for 2 years.
Renewal Process:
- Submit renewal application before license expiry
- Provide latest batch test reports
- Undergo surveillance inspection
- Update labeling and documentation if required
Conclusion
Getting BIS certified under IS 8144 is not optional — it’s a legal requirement and a mark of consumer trust. From customs clearance to retail shelves, your batteries must carry the ISI mark to avoid disruption.
Diligence Certifications helps dry battery brands navigate the complex BIS process confidently. From lab testing to final license — we ensure you’re audit-ready, paperwork-perfect, and compliance-secure.
Talk to our IS 8144 licensing experts now and avoid delays or costly rejections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IS 8144 in BIS certification?
IS 8144 is the Indian Standard that covers performance, safety, and labeling norms for multi-purpose dry batteries. It is mandatory under BIS Scheme-I for obtaining an ISI mark license.
Is ISI mark mandatory for dry batteries in India?
Yes. Dry batteries like AA, AAA, D-cells must be certified under IS 8144 and carry the ISI mark to be legally sold in India.
How long does it take to get BIS certificate for dry batteries?
It typically takes 4–6 weeks for Indian brands, and 6–10 weeks for foreign manufacturers through FMCS route.
Can I test my batteries abroad for IS 8144?
No. Only testing done at BIS-approved Indian labs is accepted for ISI mark certification.
What happens if batteries fail IS 8144 testing?
Your application will be rejected. You’ll need to fix the issue, retest, and reapply, leading to time and cost delays.
What documents are required for ISI mark certification under IS 8144?
Application form, product specs, test reports, factory quality plan, labeling artwork, authorization letters, and fee receipts.
What’s the difference between CRS and ISI mark certification?
CRS applies to electronics notified by MeitY. ISI mark certification (Scheme-I) applies to standard products like dry batteries.
Does BIS conduct surveillance after license grant?
Yes. BIS performs periodic factory audits and sample testing to ensure continued compliance under Scheme-I.
Can multiple battery types be included under a single license?
It depends on the grouping guidelines provided by BIS. Generally, variations in voltage, size, or chemical composition may require separate applications or testing for each variant.
Is renewal of the IS 8144 BIS license mandatory?
Yes, the ISI mark license under IS 8144 is valid for two years
