The Ministry of Communications (MoC) on June 11, 2026, issued the Use of On Board Unit for Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything Communication in the 5.9 GHz band (Exemption from Licensing Requirements) Rules, 2026.
The rules apply specifically to the 5875–5905 MHz frequency band and provide definitions for key technical terms such as equivalent isotropic radiated power, interference, international standards, and power spectral density. They also define “On Board Unit” (OBU) as radio equipment used in vehicles for intelligent transport systems, particularly for communication purposes.
A major provision is the exemption from licensing requirements for OBUs used in cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) communication within this frequency band. Such devices can be established, operated, possessed, sold, or hired without a license, provided they function on a non-interference, non-protection, and non-exclusive basis and meet specified technical parameters.
The rules prescribe technical limits for OBUs, including power spectral density, equivalent isotropic radiated power, and out-of-band emissions. Additionally, manufacturers must seek approval for each equipment type through a designated government portal, unless prior approval has already been granted and published.
Further, OBUs must comply with standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or relevant international bodies where domestic standards are unavailable. In case of harmful interference to licensed systems, the government may direct users to take corrective measures such as reducing power, relocating equipment, or modifying antenna usage within a specified timeframe.
They shall come into force on June 11, 2026.
[Notification No. G.S.R. 466(E)]
