Overview

Legal Metrology refers to the legal framework put in place to regulate measurements and measuring instruments used in commercial transactions. In India, the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, governs this domain and ensures accuracy, transparency and consumer protection in trade. The Legal Metrology Act, 2009, which came into force on 1st April 2011, provides the legal framework for regulating weights, measures and pre-packaged commodities in India. Any individual or business engaged in manufacturing, importing, packing, or selling such goods must obtain Legal Metrology Registration to ensure compliance with prescribed measurement and labeling standards.

This registration is mandatory for manufacturers, importers, and packers to ensure their goods meet prescribed measurement standards and labeling norms. The Department of Consumer Affairs, under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, is the regulating authority for this law.

Why

Here's why Legal Metrology Registration is essential: - 

1. Compliance with Law: It ensures adherence to the Legal Metrology Act and related rules.
2. Consumer Protection: It helps to prevent unfair trade practices and to protect consumers from deceptive weights or measurements.
3. Market Credibility: Businesses with valid registration gain trust and credibility in the market.
4. Avoidance of Penalties: Operating without proper registration can lead to legal penalties, fines, and even product seizure.
5. Eligibility for Trade: Importers, manufacturers and packers must be registered to legally sell or distribute goods.

Process

The registration process primarily depends on the nature or type of business, whether you're a manufacturer, importer or packer. Here’s a general outline:-

1. Determine the Applicable Registration: -

• Manufacturer License
• Importer License
• Packer Registration
• Dealer License
• Repairer License
• Model Approval Certificate (for specific instruments)

2. Online Application Submission: -

• Visit to the official website of the Controller of Legal Metrology (state-wise or central as applicable).
• Fill out the relevant form such as (LM-1 for manufacturer, LM-2 for packer/importer, etc.).
• Upload the required documents.

3. Payment of Fees: -

• Pay the prescribed government fee through online mode.

4. Inspection (if required): -

• A Legal Metrology Officer may conduct a physical inspection of the premises.

5. License Issuance: -

• Upon successful verification, the registration certificate/license is issued.

Documents

The required documents may vary slightly which depends upon the respective state or type of applicant. Common documents include: -

1. Application Form. (LM-1, LM-2, etc.)
2. Certificate of Incorporation / Business Registration.
3. GST Registration Certificate.
4. PAN Card of Business/Owner.
5. Address Proof of Premises. (e.g., rent agreement, electricity bill)
6. Trade License or Factory License
7. Brand label image of the product
8. Undertaking/Affidavit under Rule 27 (if LMPC registration)
9. Packing Material Specimens. (for packers/importers)
10. List of Weights and Measuring Instruments Used.
11. Affidavit/Declaration Regarding Compliance.
12. Photographs of Premises & Owner.

Fees

The fee structure may vary depends on the type of license involved and state regulations. Below is an indicative fee range:

• LMPC Registration Fee (under Rule 27): ₹500 – ₹750. (state-specific)
• Other license fees (e.g., Manufacturer, Dealer): ₹500 – ₹5,000 depending on instrument class and state.
• Renewal Fee: Usually same as new application.
• Professional/consultancy fees: It may apply if using a service provider.

 Note:  Additional inspection or renewal charges may also apply.

Time

The average processing time is:

• Online Application Submission: Immediate
• Document Verification: 3–7 working days
• Inspection (if applicable): Within 7–10 working days
• License Issuance: Typically, 10–30 working days; may extend up to 60 working days depending on state and inspection requirements.

The timeline may vary depending on jurisdiction and completeness of documents.

FAQs