The CB Scheme (Certification Body Scheme) plays a crucial role in simplifying global market access for electrical and electronic products by eliminating duplicate testing. Below is a comprehensive guide on the required documentation, certificate validity, and key recommendations based on the latest CB updates.
To apply for a CB certificate, manufacturers and applicants must prepare documentation in four key categories.
| Document Category | Required Files | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Company Credentials | CB Application Form | Use IECEE or NCB-specific forms. Ensure all company and product details are accurate. |
| Business License | Required for both applicant and manufacturer. If different entities, include an authorization letter. | |
| Trademark Certificate / Authorization | Only one brand per application unit is allowed. | |
| Technical Files | Product Manual | Must be in English or the target market language, with safety warnings and product specifications. |
| Circuit Diagrams & PCB Layouts | Clearly illustrate safety design and product structure. | |
| Product Structure & BOM | List all components, highlighting critical safety parts. | |
| Critical Component Proof | Include CB Test Certificates or compliance evidence for fuses, power cords, etc. | |
| Testing Support | Compliant Samples | Provide 1–3 samples consistent with the mass-production version. |
| Product Consistency Declaration | Applicant must confirm that samples and technical files match production goods. |
Understanding the validity of a CB certificate is key to maintaining continuous compliance across markets.
No Official Expiry:
The IECEE does not assign a fixed expiry date to CB certificates. However, certificates older than three years may face extra scrutiny or require additional information from National Certification Bodies (NCBs).
Contingent on Product Stability:
Validity depends on unchanged product design, referenced IEC standards, and critical components.
→ Any major design modification or standard update will trigger a re-evaluation process.
Follow these strategies to improve approval efficiency and long-term compliance:
✅ Plan Ahead:
Discuss target export markets early with your NCB to include country-specific variations (known as “national differences”) during testing. This can save significant time and cost later.
✅ Maintain Consistency:
Ensure that your technical documentation, test samples, and mass production items are identical to avoid rejection or delays during market audits.
✅ Monitor Standards:
Stay updated on IEC standard revisions. Transition periods usually last 1–2 years, after which older CB Reports may no longer be accepted by authorities or local certification bodies.
Facilitates international market entry through test data recognition.
Reduces duplicate testing costs across countries.
Builds trust with global buyers and regulatory agencies.
Enables smoother transition to national certifications like CCC (China), PSE (Japan), SASO (Saudi Arabia), and SNI (Indonesia).
Q1: How long does it take to obtain a CB certificate?
A: The typical process takes 6–10 weeks, depending on test scope, product type, and lab workload.
Q2: Can I use one CB certificate for multiple brands?
A: No. Each certificate applies to one brand and one applicant only. Separate applications are required for different brands.
Q3: What happens if the IEC standard is updated?
A: Products certified under an old version may remain valid during a transition period (usually 1–2 years). Afterward, re-testing or a new CB report may be required.
Q4: Can modifications to product design affect CB validity?
A: Yes. Major design or component changes (e.g., transformer, power cord, PCB layout) require partial re-testing or report updates.
Q5: Is the CB certificate accepted directly for market entry?
A: Not always. Many countries require national certification (CCC, PSE, SNI, etc.), but the CB report significantly simplifies approval and shortens testing time.
For product-specific CB documentation support and validity consulting, contact:
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +86 13534225140
Company: BLUEASIA Testing & Certification — Helping global brands simplify compliance and accelerate market access.
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