Regarding the standards and test items for FCC ID certification of radio equipment, I have outlined the core requirements and key updates as of 2025 for you, including the cybersecurity and laboratory qualification new rules effective in 2025. This information differs significantly from ordinary articles on the market.
FCC ID certification mainly follows the FCC Part 15 rules regarding "Intentional Radiators". This means all devices that intentionally emit radio frequency energy need to pass this certification.
To pass the certification, your product needs to meet the following core test requirements:
| Test Category | Core Standards & Content | Applicable Product Examples |
| RF Performance Test | Measures transmit power, frequency stability, bandwidth, spurious emissions, etc. Ensures signals are within designated frequency bands and strength, avoiding interference with other devices. | All wireless devices |
| Electromagnetic Compatibility Test | Includes conducted emissions (interfering with the power grid through power lines) and radiated emissions (releasing electromagnetic waves into space) tests. Ensures the device itself has strong anti-interference capability and does not cause harmful interference to other devices. | All wireless devices |
| Human Exposure Safety | Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) test, assessing the impact of electromagnetic radiation on human health. The limit is 1.6 W/kg. | Mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, etc., used within 20 cm of the human body during normal use. |
In addition to the above general requirements, specific types of equipment also need to comply with additional regulations, for example:
Professional walkie-talkies need to meet FCC Part 90.
Civilian walkie-talkies need to meet FCC Part 95.
Mobile phones and other communication devices need to meet FCC Part 22/24/27, etc.
Important New Regulations and Responses for 2025 FCC ID Certification:
In addition to conventional test standards, the FCC introduced several new regulations in 2025 that must be noted:
·Laboratory Qualification Security New Rules: This is currently one of the biggest compliance changes. Effective September 8, 2025, the FCC explicitly prohibits the use of test laboratories associated with prohibited entities for equipment certification. This means that when selecting a test laboratory, you must verify that it is not on the FCC's prohibition list; otherwise, its test reports cannot be used for the certification application.
·Enhanced Cybersecurity Requirements: For 5G devices, new rules require passing the FCC Part 30 cybersecurity protocol review, such as supporting stricter data transmission security standards like TLS 1.3 encryption.
·Upgraded Human Exposure Safety Standards: Starting March 31, 2025, the FCC mandates the adoption of the KDB 447498 D01 V07 new rule, which increased SAR test accuracy requirements by 30% for wearable devices, mobile phones, and other wireless products.
Optimization Suggestions for You:
·Pay Attention to Certificate Maintenance: Although FCC certification itself has no fixed validity period, companies need to dynamically monitor any changes to the product and updates to FCC regulations. Once the product undergoes major changes in hardware, firmware, or antenna design, re-certification may be required. Simultaneously, FCC technical standards are also updated (e.g., the 2025 SAR new rule), and manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products continuously comply with the latest regulations.
·Properly Keep Technical Documents: According to regulations, all technical documents (including test reports and design drawings) need to be retained for at least 5 years for potential FCC inspection.
We hope this overview of FCC ID certification standards and items helps you better cope with the new regulations. 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!
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