Regarding the documents required for Japan's "Radio Wave Act" MIC certification and its "validity period," I will provide a highly differentiated explanation integrating the latest official requirements up to 2025.
Preparing complete and precise documents is key to successful MIC certification. This list includes core documents and highlights recent additions and easily overlooked points.
| Document Category | Core Content & Description | 2025 Special Focus |
| ① Technical Core Documents | ·Circuit Block Diagram & Schematic: Clearly mark all RF-related components. ·Technical Specifications: Detail operating frequency(s), modulation, output power, antenna gain, etc. ·Technical Construction Diagram: Include internal/external photos showing structure, label location, antenna type. | For Software Defined Radio (SDR) devices, must provide software version and version control description, clarifying any ability to modify RF parameters via software. |
| ② Testing & Proof Documents | ·Complete Test Report: Issued by a Japanese RCB, covering all required items (RF [Conducted/Radiated], EMC, etc.). ·RCB Accreditation Statement: Proof of testing lab's qualifications. | IoT devices require an additional "Cybersecurity Measures Conformity Declaration" detailing specific measures for access control, encrypted communication, firmware security, etc. |
| ③ Labeling & Manual Documents | ·Japanese User Manual: Must include statutory warnings, `Ⓡ` mark, and clear prohibition against user modification/dismantling. ·Label Artwork: Clearly show the permanent `Ⓡ` mark and certification number on the device. | New rules require the manual to declare that any unauthorized software upgrade changing RF parameters is illegal. |
| ④ Administrative & Legal Documents | ·Certification Application Form .Power of Attorney for Domestic Representative: Mandatory for overseas manufacturers, proving appointment of a local Japanese entity. ·Manufacturer's ISO 9001 Certificate (if available, can be beneficial). | Scrutiny of the "Domestic Representative's" qualifications has tightened; requires proof of legal business status in Japan and clarity on their market surveillance/recall responsibilities. |
Detailed Explanation of MIC Certification "Validity Period":
This is a crucial and often misunderstood concept: MIC certification itself does not have a fixed, automatic expiration date (e.g., 3 or 5 years).
However, this "permanent validity" is conditional. The certification becomes invalid or requires immediate renewal under the following circumstances:
1.Substantial Change in Product Design (Most Important Invalidation Condition):
·If any modification is made to the hardware, core firmware, antenna design, or RF circuit that could affect RF performance, the original certification becomes invalid immediately.
·2025 Practice Focus: For products whose RF parameters can be changed via software update (e.g., Wi-Fi APs, 5G CPE), any firmware update adding new bands, increasing power, or changing modulation is considered a "design change." A change application must be submitted to the original RCB; otherwise, the certification is invalid.
2.Update of Japanese Technical Regulations: When MIC issues new or revised technical standards, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products continuously comply. Usually, a transition period is given. Manufacturers must update or re-certify within this period, or the original certificate becomes invalid upon expiry.
3.Non-compliance Found During Market Surveillance: If MIC finds a certified product non-compliant during market checks, or if certification information is falsified, it can revoke the certification, making it invalid immediately.
4.Manufacturer Voluntarily Abandons: e.g., stops paying the "Domestic Representative" annual fee, or actively requests certificate cancellation.
Important Obligation:
Technical Document Retention: According to regulations, manufacturers and the Japanese Domestic Representative must retain all technical documents and certification records for at least **5 years** after the product's production discontinuation, for potential MIC audits.
We hope this in-depth explanation of MIC certification documents and validity helps you complete certification efficiently and compliantly. If you can share your specific product type, BLUEASIA: 13534225140, will provide professional certification consulting services!
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