Canada IC EMC Mandatory Certification: Documents & Validity

2025-10-22

This document clarifies the documentation and "validity" concepts for Canada's IC EMC Certification as of 2025.

Understanding IC Certification: Two Models:

Certification Model  Applies To  Core Requirements & Labeling
IC-ID (Certification) Devices with wireless functions (BT, Wi-Fi, cellular, drones, etc.). Requires RF & EMC testing via ISED-accredited lab. Results in unique IC-ID (`IC:XXXXX-YYYYYYYYYYY`).
IC-SDOC (Supplier's DoC) Non-radio products (power supplies, appliances, wired IT equipment, lamps).Requires EMC compliance. Manufacturer self-declares, retains DoC & reports. Uses advisory label (e.g., `CAN ICES-3(B)...`).

  Required Documentation Checklist:

1.General Documents: Application Form, Canadian Local Representative authorization letter, product photos (external/internal), Bilingual (EN/FR) User Manual.

2.Technical Documents: Circuit diagrams, PCB layout, specifications. For wireless: RF technical doc, antenna specs. SAR report if body-worn.

3.Testing & Samples: Test reports from ISED-accredited lab, 3-5 functional samples.

  Process & "Validity" Explained:

1.Process (Several Weeks): Preparation -> Testing (EMC, RF for IC-ID, SAR if needed) -> Review/Certification (IC-SDOC via lab; IC-ID via TCB/ISED).

2."Validity" Period: The IC certification itself does not have a fixed expiry date. However, the IC-ID *registration* is valid for **5 years** and must be renewed.

-"Permanent" Validity Conditions: Certification becomes invalid if:

·Product Design Changes affecting RF/EMC occur.

·New Regulatory Standards are issued and the product is not updated for compliance.

  Ongoing Compliance Obligations:

1.Annual Reporting: Submit prior year's sales data (including nil reports) to ISED by January 31st.

2.Market Surveillance: Retain at least one certified sample for potential ISED audit.


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