This overview covers the core elements of Canada's IC EMC Mandatory Certification as of August 2025.
| Certification Element | 2025 Core Information |
| Official Name | IC Certification (managed by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - ISED). |
| Legal Basis | Radiocommunication Act & related technical standards. |
| Governing Body | Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). |
| Purpose | To ensure EMC and radio performance of electronic/electrical products, preventing harmful interference. |
| Mandatory Scope | Virtually all electronic/electrical products sold or used in Canada. |
Certification Models & Core Requirements：
Certification path depends on whether the device has wireless functionality.
IC-SDOC (Supplier's Declaration of Conformity)：
·Applies To: Non-radio products (e.g., desktop PCs, wired peripherals, power adapters, basic lamps).
·Core Requirements: Product must meet relevant EMC standards. Manufacturer/importer tests (or uses a lab) and retains the DoC & test reports. No ID registration with ISED.
·Labeling: Requires a specific advisory label, e.g., `CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)`.
IC-ID (Certification)：
·Applies To: All devices with wireless functions (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, drones).
·Core Requirements: Requires RF performance testing (power, frequency, bandwidth, etc.) in addition to EMC. Reports must be reviewed by an ISED-accredited lab (or TCB). ISED then issues a unique IC-ID.
·Labeling: The IC-ID (format: `IC:XXXXX-YYYYYYYYYYY`) must be permanently marked on the product.
Process & Key Steps：
The complete process typically takes several weeks.
1.Preparation (1-2 weeks): Determine product category, gather docs (circuit diagrams, manuals, BOM). Wireless products require a Canadian Local Representative.
2.Testing (Core Phase): Samples tested at an accredited lab. Tests include:
·EMC Testing.
·RF Testing (IC-ID only).
·SAR Testing (if applicable, for body-worn devices).
3.Review & Certification:
·IC-SDOC: Lab can issue compliance report (~1 week).
·IC-ID: Reports submitted to a TCB or ISED for review/certification (~3-4 weeks).
Fees & Latest Dynamics：
Cost Components:
1.Testing Fees: Vary by complexity. Wireless (IC-ID) > Non-wireless (IC-SDOC).
2.Official Registration Fee: $804.14 CAD (new IC-ID application, effective Apr 1, 2025).
3.Local Representative Fee.
Key Considerations：
1.Mandatory Local Representative: Required for overseas manufacturers.
2.Certificate "Validity": IC-ID registration is valid for 5 years, after which renewal is required. Hardware changes may require re-certification.
3.Non-Compliance Risks: Products face detention at customs, fines, and market access denial.
king.guo@cblueasia.com
+86 135 3422 5140
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