US FCC Certification: Detailed 2025 Guide for Electronic & Wireless Products

1️⃣ FCC Overview

The FCC Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) manages technical standards and equipment authorization.
Most electronic, radio, and communication products imported or sold in the U.S. must comply with FCC rules to ensure safety and prevent radio interference.

2️⃣ FCC Certification Types (Post-2017 Reform)

Since November 2, 2017, the FCC merged Verification and Declaration of Conformity (DoC) into the Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC).
Today, FCC approval is divided into two main types:

3️⃣ FCC Certification Applicable Product Range

SDoC Products (No Wireless Function)

1. Power supplies, adapters, chargers, UPS

2. LED lighting devices

3. Household appliances

4. IT and office equipment

5. Wired telecom terminals

6. Industrial power tools

FCC ID Products (With Wireless Function)

1. Short-range transmitters

2. Wireless modules & terminals

3. IoT and Wi-Fi devices

4. Bluetooth-enabled electronics

4️⃣ Core FCC Technical Standards

• FCC Part 15: Most consumer electronics (intentional/unintentional radiators)

• FCC Part 18: ISM (Industrial, Scientific, Medical) equipment

• Other Parts:

  • Part 22 (Public Mobile)

  • Part 24 (PCS)

  • Part 25 (Satellite)

  • Part 27 (Other Wireless Bands)

  • Part 68 (Telecom Terminals)

5️⃣ FCC Certification Application Process

A. FCC SDoC Process

1️⃣ Apply to an accredited test lab
2️⃣ Provide product samples and documentation
3️⃣ Lab conducts EMC testing and issues report
4️⃣ Manufacturer/importer signs SDoC declaration
5️⃣ Product labeled and marketed — no FCC certificate needed, but documentation must be kept for inspection

B. FCC ID Certification Process

1️⃣ Obtain FCC Registration Number (FRN)
2️⃣ Submit samples and full technical documents
3️⃣ Accredited lab conducts EMC + RF testing
4️⃣ Submit results to a TCB (Telecommunication Certification Body)
5️⃣ TCB reviews, issues Grant of Authorization, and assigns unique FCC ID

FCC ID Format:
Grantee Code (3 letters) + Product Code (up to 14 characters)

6️⃣ Required Documentation for FCC ID Application

1. FCC Application Form

2. Power of Attorney (POA)

3. Confidentiality Request Letter

4. Block Diagram

5. Circuit Schematic

6. Operational Description

7. User Manual (with FCC statement)

8. Label Design & Placement Diagram

9. Product Photos (internal & external)

10. Full EMC + RF Test Report

7️⃣ Labeling Requirements

FCC-compliant products must display:
✅ FCC ID Number
✅ Compliance Statement (e.g., “This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.”)
✅ Manufacturer information

Improper labeling may result in delays, fines, or customs rejection.

8️⃣ Key Differences Between SDoC and FCC ID

9️⃣ Practical Advice for Efficient FCC Approval

1️⃣ Plan Early: Identify whether your product requires SDoC or FCC ID before design freeze.
2️⃣ Choose Qualified Labs: Always use FCC-accredited test labs to avoid re-testing.
3️⃣ Maintain Technical Files: Retain all reports, schematics, and test data for minimum 5 years.
4️⃣ Monitor Regulatory Updates: FCC occasionally updates emission limits and testing rules.
5️⃣ Label Correctly: Ensure FCC logo, ID, and compliance text are visible and permanent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is FCC certification mandatory for all products sold in the U.S.?
Yes. Almost all electronic and communication devices must comply with FCC Part 15 or Part 18 before import or sale.

Q2: What’s the difference between SDoC and FCC ID?
SDoC applies to non-wireless devices and allows self-declaration, while FCC ID is mandatory for wireless transmitters and requires third-party approval.

Q3: How long does FCC certification take?

• SDoC: ~1–2 weeks

• FCC ID: ~4–6 weeks, depending on product complexity.

Q4: Can one FCC ID be used for multiple models?
Only if the models are identical in RF and EMC characteristics. Otherwise, new certification is required.

Q5: What are the penalties for non-compliance?
The FCC can issue fines, recalls, or bans on sales and imports for uncertified products.

Partner with BLUEASIA for FCC Compliance Success

BLUEASIA provides end-to-end FCC certification consulting, including:
✅ Product standard identification
✅ Sample testing coordination
✅ Documentation & report review
✅ Labeling and compliance guidance

Contact BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com