Understanding the standards and test items for FCC SDoC certification of non-wireless electronic products is a crucial step to ensure compliant entry into the US market. Below, I outline the latest information as of October 2025, specifically including a mandatory new rule regarding test laboratory qualifications, which directly relates to the validity of your certification.
First, FCC SDoC certification primarily targets electronic products without any wireless transmission functions. If your product contains modules like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you need to apply for the more complex FCC ID certification.
1.Main Applicable Products Include:
·Home Appliances: Such as rice cookers, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, electric fans, etc.
·IT Equipment: Such as computer monitors, power adapters, printers, wired keyboards, etc.
·Lamp Products: Such as LED bulbs, ballasts, etc.
·Industrial Equipment: Such as motors, frequency converters, etc.
2.Core Test Standards are based on the following parts of FCC regulations:
·FCC Part 15B: For unintentional radiation (Electromagnetic Interference EMI) testing of electronic devices. This is the core standard most ordinary electronic products need to follow.
·FCC Part 18: Applicable to Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) equipment, such as microwave ovens, laser equipment, etc.
Detailed Explanation of Core Test Items for FCC SDoC Certification:
The core of FCC SDoC certification is Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing, to ensure your device does not cause harmful interference to other devices during operation, while also possessing a certain level of anti-interference capability. The main test items are as follows:
| Test Item | Core Content & Purpose |
| Conducted Emission | Measures the strength of electromagnetic interference transmitted by the device to the power grid via the power cord. Ensures your product does not "pollute" the public grid, affecting other devices on the same circuit. |
| Radiated Emission | Measures the strength of electromagnetic waves radiated into space by the device during normal operation. Ensures your product does not act like a small "broadcasting station," causing interference to surrounding radio communications (e.g., radio, TV signals). |
| Harmonic Current | Evaluates the degree of current waveform distortion (pollution) caused by the device to the power grid when drawing power. This is particularly important for higher-power appliances, helping to ensure grid stability and efficiency. |
⚠️2025 Important New Rule: Laboratory Security Review
Please pay special attention: the FCC released and enacted a mandatory rule regarding the "Equipment Authorization Program Security" in 2025, which directly affects your choice of test laboratory.
1.Core Content:The new rule prohibits the use of test reports from laboratories associated with "covered" entities for FCC certification (including SDoC). These "covered" entities include, but are not limited to, those on the "Covered List" (e.g., Huawei, ZTE affiliates), the US Department of Commerce "Entity List," etc.
2.Ownership Threshold: Entities controlled (directly or indirectly owning ≥10% shares) are explicitly prohibited from participating; simultaneously, disclosure of ownership information for holdings ≥5% is required.
3.Effective Date & Enforcement:This rule became effective on September 8, 2025. Laboratories needed to submit declarations of no affiliation with covered entities by October 6, 2025.
4.Direct Impact on You: When selecting a test laboratory, you must verify that it is not on the FCC's prohibition list and has completed the relevant declarations as required.Otherwise, its test reports will not be recognized, potentially preventing your product from smoothly entering the US market.
FCC SDoC Certification Process and Compliance Points:
In addition to test standards and laboratory selection, the following points are crucial for successfully completing certification and subsequent market surveillance:
1.Sign Declaration of Conformity:** After passing the tests, the **US Responsible Party** (manufacturer, importer, or authorized representative) must sign the Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) document. Unlike FCC ID certification which requires FCC approval, SDoC is essentially a self-declaration by the company.
2.Document Retention Requirements: According to FCC regulations, all technical documents (including test reports, circuit diagrams, SDoC, etc.) must be retained for at least 10 years after production of the product has ceased for potential FCC inspection at any time.
3.Product Labeling: FCC SDoC certification no longer mandates affixing the FCC Logo on the product, but it is recommended to include the compliance statement text in the manual or on the device, for example: "This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules."
We hope this overview of FCC SDoC certification standards and items helps you better plan and execute product certification. If you have more detailed questions about testing for specific products (e.g., certain home appliances), BLUEASIA Tech: 13534225140 will provide professional certification consulting services!
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