Many exporters are told lab testing takes 3 weeks and TCB review takes 2 weeks, yet actual processing often drags on for 2 months.Delays are rarely caused by agencies, but by incorrect process descriptions and unclear institutional responsibilities.This article outlines the practical FCC Part 68 certification process without templates.

1. First Confirm Whether Your Product Needs Part 68

This is the most skipped yet critical step.Part 68 covers wired terminals directly connected to PSTN landlines: landline phones, fax machines, wired modems with RJ11, communications equipment with FXS/FXO ports.

Not covered: 4G/5G modules, automotive T-Box, Bluetooth, WiFi devices — these use Part 15 or Part 22/24/27.

Judgment rule: Does your device plug into a landline? If not, Part 68 does not apply.

Note on HAC (Hearing Aid Compatibility): Required under FCC Part 68.213 only for telephone handsets.Fax machines, modems, and voice gateways are exempt.The FCC 100% HAC deadline (December 14, 2026) applies to wireless mobile phones, not wired landlines — do not mix up compliance timelines.

  2. Only 4 Steps in Complete FCC Part 68 Certification

Unlike FCC Part 15 (which offers SDOC or TCB routes), Part 68 has only one path: ACTA system listing.

Step 1: Register RPC Number

RPC is the corporate identity code in the ACTA system, required before product listing.

·Apply online via the ACTA portal with basic company information

·Instant approval, same-day issuance

Annual renewal is required: 2026 standard fee $150, discounted $115 (Oct–Feb).

Step 2: Submit Samples for TIA 968 Testing (Most Time-Consuming)

Testing follows the TIA 968 standard mandated by ACTA:

·Hazardous voltage and leakage current

·Signal power limits

·Transverse balance

·Billing protection

·Electrical surge testing

·AC/DC impedance (on-hook & off-hook)

No drop testing, Bluetooth, or WiFi testing is included.

·Simple products: 1–2 weeks

·Multi-interface or HAC products: longer

Choose labs with extensive Part 68 experience to avoid repeated testing.

Step 3: Submit Product Listing in ACTA System

After receiving the test report, submit the listing application via the ACTA online portal.ACTA only performs format verification, not technical review (unlike FCC Part 15 ID certification).Include: model number, test standard, RPC code, test report number, etc.

Step 4: Product Labeling

After ACTA registration, download the listing confirmation.Part 68 uses TSB 168 labeling requirements — no official FCC certificate like Part 15 FCC ID.Mark the listing number on product labels and user manuals as required.

  How Long Does ACTA Processing Really Take?

ACTA only checks document completeness.With correct documents, registration is completed in 1–3 business days.No backlog or long waiting queues.Most delays occur in laboratory testing, not ACTA.

Normal Total Timeline

·RPC registration: same day

·Laboratory testing: 1–2 weeks

·ACTA listing: 1–3 business days

·Total: 2–3 weeks

Common delays: testing failures and incomplete documents.Finalize hardware and prepare full documents upfront to stay on schedule.

For FCC Part 68 Certification, contact Blueasia Testing & Certification Consultant: +86 13534225140