IP-1 License – A Complete Overview
An IP-1 License is granted by the Department of Telecommunications to Infrastructure Providers – Category I, authorizing them to lease, rent, or sell passive telecom assets like towers, dark fiber, RoW, duct space and similar non‑electronic infrastructure.
10+ Years of Experience
400+ In-House CAs, CS & Lawyers
99% SLA Delivery
10,000+ Pin codes Network in India
100000+
Happy Customers
3500+
Expert Advisors
50+
Branch Offices
Free Consultation by Expert
Rated 4.9 by 42,817+ Customers
Talk to an Expert
Get personalized guidance from our industry specialists
Enquiry Form
Among Asia Top 100 Consulting Firm
Get Consultation
Lowest Fees 100,000+ Clients
Service Delivery
4.9 Rating | 50+ Offices
Role of IP-1 License
The IP-1 License enables companies to legally offer passive telecom infrastructure—towers, ducts, dark fiber, RoW—to licensed telecom operators, ensuring a regulated, high‑quality connectivity ecosystem across India.
Areas Served by IP-1 Providers
IP-1 License holders deal exclusively with passive components: ● Towers for wireless coverage ● Right of Way (RoW) for cable routes ● Antennas and base stations as network hubs ● Duct space for fiber installations ● Dark fiber leasing ● Broadband and cloud infrastructure
Who Can Apply
Eligibility is restricted to companies incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013 with a clean legal record. Foreign direct investment up to 100% is permitted, subject to FIPB approval if above 40%.
Key Registration Guidelines
● Must be a Company under Companies Act, 2013 ● No cap on number of IP‑1 entrants ● Deal only in passive assets via formal agreements ● Notify DoT within 15 days of signing contracts or setup changes ● DoT decision on application within 15 days
Why IP‑1 Compliance Matters
Maintaining IP‑1 compliance prevents heavy penalties, ensures uninterrupted service, and fosters trust with telecom operators through transparent, non‑discriminatory infrastructure agreements.
1. Documents for IP-1 Application
● Licensing fee DD/Pay Order
● Certificate of Incorporation signed by Director/CS/Auditor
● Equity structure details and shareholder nationalities
● MoU/Agreement for foreign promoters (if any)
● FIPB approval (if FDI >40%)
● Board Resolution authorizing signatory
● MOA & AOA with business objectives
● List of Directors with nationalities
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Download & Review Form: From the DoT portal.
2. Complete Application: Company name, address, signatory details, fee info, equity breakdown, company seal & signature.
3. Submit Offline: File at DoT Head Office, New Delhi, and get acknowledgment.
4. Vetting: DoT verifies documents; discrepancies may lead to rejection.
5. Certificate Issuance: Upon approval, receive IP‑1 License to operate.
Let DoStartup Simplify Your IP-1 License
Expert guidance on documentation & application filing
Timely follow‑up with DoT to expedite approval
Accurate form filling and legal review
End‑to‑end support from download to certificate delivery