Regarding FCC ID certification for radio equipment, this is indeed a core compliance requirement for products entering the US market. Below, I have integrated the latest information and complete process as of October 2025, specifically including the security new rules effective in the second half of 2025, hoping to help you plan efficiently.
First, it is crucial to understand the mandatory nature and scope of FCC ID certification.
·Mandatory Nature: According to regulations by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), all wireless devices that intentionally generate radio frequency energy must pass FCC ID certification before being sold in the US market. This is not only a legal requirement but also a mandatory entry threshold for major e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
·Product Scope: Common devices include mobile phones, Bluetooth speakers, Wi-Fi routers, smartwatches, as well as tablets, smart home appliances, etc., that possess wireless communication functions.
2025 Core New Rules: Equipment Authorization Security Program
In August 2025, the FCC released new rules on the Equipment Authorization Security Program (ET Docket No. 24-136; FCC 25-27), which directly impacts the choice of certification laboratories.
Core Objective: To prevent entities controlled by specific foreign governments or threat actors from participating in the US communication equipment certification process, thereby enhancing supply chain security.
Key Prohibitions:
·Prohibited Entities: The new rules explicitly prohibit entities including those on the "Covered List" (e.g., Huawei, ZTE affiliates), the US Department of Commerce "Entity List," etc., as well as entities controlled (directly or indirectly owning ≥10% shares) by foreign adversary nations (e.g., China, Russia) governments or entities, from acting as FCC-accepted test laboratories or Telecommunication Certification Bodies (TCBs).
·Mandatory Reporting: Requires disclosure of ownership information for holdings ≥5%.
·Effective Date: This final rule became effective on September 8, 2025.
·Impact on You: When selecting a test laboratory, you must confirm it is not on the aforementioned prohibition list; otherwise, its test reports cannot be used for the FCC ID certification application.
FCC ID Certification Process and Required Documents:
Preparation
FRN (FCC Registration Number): A 10-digit corporate identity code obtained by registering in the FCC CORES system.
Grantee Code: A unique prefix code applied for (cost approx. $70) during the first FCC ID application, reusable for subsequent products.
Corporate Qualification Registration:
Document Preparation: This is the foundation of certification. The table below summarizes the core documents required:
| Document Category | Core Content & Description |
| Product Technical Documents | • Block Diagram: Shows the division of functional modules and signal flow, marking all crystal oscillator positions and frequencies. • Circuit Schematic: Fully presents the connections of core units like RF circuits and power modules. • Operational Description: Written in English, explaining signal flow, modulation methods, and frequency range. |
| Test Samples & Photos | • Test Samples: Typically require providing a "fixed-frequency sample" for testing. • Product Photos: Include clear multi-angle exterior photos and internal structure photos (e.g., PCB layout, shielding structure). • Internal photos must clearly show key components; add notes if necessary. |
| Compliance & Administrative Documents | • FCC Application Form: Accurately fill in corporate, product, and radio parameter information. • Power of Attorney & Confidentiality Letter: Signed by the applying company, authorizing and entrusting an agency to submit the application, and optionally requesting confidentiality for technical documents. • User Manual: Must contain the FCC warning statement, e.g., "Important: Changes or modifications not approved by the manufacturer may void the user's authority to operate the equipment." • The equipment model and manufacturer name in the application form must exactly match those on the product nameplate and other documents. |
Sample Testing:
Send samples to an FCC-accredited test laboratory (ensure it complies with the 2025 new rules mentioned above) for testing. Main test items include:
RF Performance (according to FCC Part 15C/E, etc.).
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC, according to FCC Part 15B).
Human Exposure Safety (SAR testing, for devices normally used within 20 cm of the human body, e.g., mobile phones, tablets).
Report Submission and Certification Issuance:
After successful testing, the laboratory submits the report along with technical documentation to an FCC TCB (Telecommunication Certification Body) for review.
After the TCB completes the review and confirms all documents are correct, it issues the FCC ID certificate.
Labeling and Market Surveillance:
After certification, the product must be clearly and permanently marked with the FCC ID number (format: XXXX-XXXXXXX). Note: Products with FCC-ID certification cannot use the FCC logo; only the FCC ID number can be written on the label.
The manufacturer must appoint a US Agent responsible for communication with the FCC.
If the product undergoes design changes, retesting and report updates may be required to ensure continued compliance.
Radio Equipment FCC ID Certification Timeline and Cost Estimation:
Certification Timeline: Under normal circumstances, the entire process takes 4-8 weeks. If expedited service is chosen, it can be shortened to 2-3 weeks, but costs increase by 30%-50%.
Cost Composition: Certification costs are not fixed and mainly consist of:
·Testing Fee: Depending on product complexity, approx. ¥5,000-¥15,000 RMB. For example, single-function Bluetooth devices cost less, while multi-band smartphones supporting 5G/Wi-Fi 6 cost more.
·Application & Registration Fee: Includes the Grantee Code application fee (approx. $70).
·Service Fee: Includes agency service fees, document service fees, etc., approx. ¥3,000-¥8,000 RMB.
Practical Suggestions for Optimizing FCC ID Certification:
·Respond to New Rules, Choose Laboratories Cautiously: Verify the qualifications of the test laboratory to ensure it is not affected by the prohibition rules effective in September 2025. This is the prerequisite for successful certification now.
·Pay Attention to Technical Standard Updates: FCC technical requirements are also constantly updated. For example, in May 2025, the FCC issued documents expanding the operating bands for Very Low Power (VLP) devices to the entire 6GHz band. For new products, consider supporting the latest specifications and standards from the design phase.
Optimize Strategy to Control Costs and Timeline:
·Conduct Pre-testing in Advance: Before formal submission, pre-testing or GAP analysis can be conducted to identify and resolve potential problems early, effectively avoiding timeline extensions and additional costs due to formal test failures.
·Ensure Documents are Accurate and Complete: The completeness and accuracy of technical documents are key to smooth TCB review, avoiding repeated submissions and shortening review time.
We hope this detailed overview of FCC ID certification helps you better plan and execute certification matters. If you can share more specific product types (e.g., Bluetooth earphones, Wi-Fi routers, or other devices), BLUEASIA Tech: 13534225140 will provide professional certification consulting services!
相关新闻
