Documents and Validity Period for Radio Equipment FCC ID Certification

2025-10-16

Preparing complete documents and understanding the special concept of "validity period" is crucial for handling FCC ID certification for radio equipment. I have integrated the latest requirements and guidelines as of 2025 for you, hoping to help you complete the certification efficiently and compliantly.

Documents for Radio Equipment FCC ID Certification:

First, through the table below, you can quickly understand the core list of documents required for FCC ID certification.

Document CategoryCore Content & Description Special Reminders & Latest Requirements
Corporate Qualification Documents

• FRN (FCC Registration Number): 10-digit corporate identity code obtained by registering in the FCC CORES system.

• Grantee Code: Permanently valid prefix code obtained (cost approx. $70) during the first application.

 • US Agent Information: Non-US enterprises must provide the name, address, and contact information of a US local responsible party.

 US Agent information is mandatory.
Product Technical Documents

• FCC ID Label & Location Diagram: Format "FCC ID: XXXX-XXXXXXX", must be visible on the exterior of the product.

• Circuit Design Documents: Include block diagram (marking crystal oscillators and frequencies), circuit schematic, operational description in English.

• Product Photos: External multi-angle photos and clear internal structure photos.

• RF Parameter Description: Such as transmission frequency band, maximum output power, and modulation method. Crystal oscillator positions and frequency information in the block diagram and schematic must be consistent. Internal photos must clearly show PCB layout and shielding structure.


Testing & Compliance Documents

• Test Report: Issued by an FCC-accredited laboratory, covering RF performance, EMC, etc.

• User Manual: Must contain the FCC warning statement.

• SAR Assessment Report: For devices normally used ≤20cm from the human body (e.g., mobile phones, tablets), must comply with KDB 447498 D01 V07 (2025 mandatory version) standard.                          

SAR testing must follow the 2025 mandatory standard.
Authorization & Declaration Documents

• Power of Attorney (POA): Signed by the legal representative of the applying company, authorizing the laboratory or agency to submit the application.

• Confidentiality Letter: If involving sensitive technology, can apply for confidentiality of technical documents.

The Power of Attorney must be signed by the corporate legal representative.

  Detailed Explanation of FCC ID Certification "Validity Period":

This is a very critical and easily misunderstood concept: The FCC ID certification itself has no fixed validity period; it is permanently valid at the official level.

However, this "permanent validity" has strict conditions. Certification may become invalid under the following circumstances:

·Product Design Changes: If the product's hardware, software, circuit structure, or antenna parameters undergo substantial modifications, and these changes may affect RF performance or EMC, re-certification is required.

·FCC Technical Standard Updates: The FCC updates its technical regulations (e.g., Part 15) from time to time. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products continuously comply with the latest regulatory versions; otherwise, certification may become invalid.

·Product Compliance Issues: If a certified product receives user complaints for issues like radiation exceeding limits and is verified by the FCC, the certificate may be revoked, leading to a sales ban for the product.

  FCC ID Certification Process and Suggestions:

The complete FCC ID certification process mainly includes the following key steps:

·Register FRN and apply for Grantee Code: This is the first step to start certification, establishing a unique identity for the company.

·Send samples for testing: Send samples to an FCC-accredited laboratory for testing.

·Submit to TCB for review: Submit the complete test report and technical documents through an FCC-accredited TCB agency.

·Obtain FCC ID certificate: After review and approval, the TCB agency issues the certificate.

To help you complete the certification more smoothly, here are some practical suggestions:

·Pay Attention to Certificate Maintenance: Although there is no annual fee for certification, companies need to dynamically monitor any changes to the product and updates to FCC regulations to ensure the continued validity of the certificate.

·Properly Keep Technical Documents: According to regulations, all technical documents (including test reports and design drawings) must be retained for at least 5 years for potential FCC inspection.


We hope this detailed document list and validity period explanation helps you efficiently complete FCC ID certification. If you can specify what type of wireless product you have (e.g., Bluetooth speaker, Wi-Fi router, or smartphone), BLUEASIA Tech: 13534225140 will provide professional certification consulting services!