Understanding the process and timeline for FCC SDoC certification of non-wireless electronic products is a crucial step to ensure smooth market entry into the US. I have integrated the latest process information, key timeline nodes, and a mandatory new rule directly affecting certification as of October 2025 for you, hoping to help you plan efficiently.
1.Preparation (Approx. 1 week):
This is the starting point of certification, focusing on confirming product applicability and preparing documents.
·Confirm Product Scope: Ensure your product has no wireless transmission functions (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi). FCC SDoC applies to all electronic products without wireless transmission functions, such as ordinary home appliances (microwave ovens, refrigerators), IT equipment (monitors, wired keyboards/mice), lamps (LED bulbs, ballasts), and power adapters.
·Prepare Technical Documents: Core documents to prepare include the product manual (must contain FCC warning), circuit schematics, exterior and interior photos, and label design drawings.
2.Laboratory Testing (Approx. 1-2 weeks):
This is the core link for verifying product compliance.
·Test Items: Certification primarily involves Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing to ensure the device does not cause harmful interference to other devices. Main test items include Conducted Emission, Radiated Emission, and Harmonic Current.
⚠️ Laboratory Selection New Rule (2025 Mandatory Enforcement):This is currently a key focus. According to the mandatory "Equipment Authorization Program Security" rules effective in the second half of 2025, you must select a laboratory not on the FCC's prohibition list. These rules explicitly prohibit entities including those on the "Covered List" (e.g., Huawei, ZTE affiliates) from acting as FCC-accepted test laboratories. You must verify the laboratory's qualifications; otherwise, its test reports cannot be used for certification, potentially preventing your product from entering the US market.
3.Sign Declaration of Conformity (Approx. 1 week):
·After passing the tests, there is no need to submit an application to the FCC or wait for review.
·Sign Declaration: The US Responsible Party** (manufacturer, importer, etc.) must sign the Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) document.
4.Document Archiving & Market Surveillance (Ongoing):
·Technical Document Retention: 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.
·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.
FCC SDoC Certification Timeline & Cost Estimation:
1.Certification Timeline: Under smooth circumstances, the conventional FCC SDoC certification process typically takes 2-4 weeks. If test failures require rectification, the timeline may extend.
2.Cost Composition: Certification costs are not fixed and consist mainly of the testing fee, typically ranging from 1,000 - 3,500 RMB, depending on product complexity.
⚠️ Avoid Potential Risks:
1.Do Not Sell Without Certification: Selling products in the US market without FCC SDoC certification is non-compliant and may result in products being detained by customs, removed from e-commerce platforms (like Amazon), or even facing high fines.
2.Standards Are Not Universal: Even if the product has passed EU CE certification, it cannot directly replace FCC certification. EMC standards differ between Europe and the US, and specialized FCC testing for the US market is mandatory.
We hope this detailed process overview and latest updates help you better plan and execute FCC SDoC certification. If you have more detailed questions about testing requirements for specific products (e.g., certain home appliances or IT equipment), BLUEASIA Tech: 13534225140 will provide professional certification consulting services!
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