For any electronic device with wireless communication functions, FCC ID certification is a legal prerequisite for entry into the U.S. market.
It is not only mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under the Communications Act, but also required by major platforms like Amazon and Best Buy to ensure regulatory compliance.
Mobile phones & tablets
Bluetooth speakers, TWS earbuds
Wi-Fi routers, access points
Smart home appliances (IoT)
Wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, trackers)
In August 2025, the FCC issued ET Docket No. 24-136 (FCC 25-27) — the Equipment Authorization Security Program — which redefines how test labs and certification bodies operate.
| Regulation Aspect | Core Requirements & Impacts |
|---|---|
| Objective | Enhance supply chain security by prohibiting participation of entities controlled by certain foreign governments or threat actors in FCC equipment certification. |
| Prohibited Entities | Includes companies on the Covered List (e.g., Huawei, ZTE affiliates), the U.S. Department of Commerce Entity List, and organizations owned ≥10% by adversarial governments (China, Russia, etc.). |
| Ownership Disclosure | Testing labs and TCBs must disclose any ownership stake ≥5%. |
| Effective Date | September 8, 2025 |
| Impact on Manufacturers | Reports issued by non-compliant labs will be invalid, preventing FCC certification approval. |
Key Takeaway:
When selecting a testing laboratory, confirm that it complies with the new security rule — otherwise, your test report may be rejected.
The complete certification process includes five main stages.
| Stage | Description | Approx. Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ Preparation & Registration | Register an FRN (Federal Registration Number) and apply for a Grantee Code (≈ $70, reusable for future projects). | 1 week |
| 2️⃣ Document Preparation | Prepare all technical and administrative documents (see list below). | 1–2 weeks |
| 3️⃣ Sample Testing | Send samples to an FCC-accredited lab compliant with the 2025 security program for RF, EMC, and SAR testing. | 2–4 weeks |
| 4️⃣ TCB Review & Certification | Submit reports to a Telecommunication Certification Body for review. Upon approval, the FCC ID certificate is issued. | 1–2 weeks |
| 5️⃣ Labeling & Market Surveillance | Apply permanent FCC ID marking, assign a U.S. Agent, and retain technical documents for 5 years. | Ongoing |
Total Estimated Timeline: 4–8 weeks (expedited option: 2–3 weeks, +30–50% cost)
| Document Type | Content & Description |
|---|---|
| Product Technical Documents | • Block Diagram: Marks crystal oscillator locations and frequencies. • Circuit Schematic: Shows detailed connections of RF and power modules. • Operational Description: English explanation of modulation methods and signal flow. |
| Test Samples & Photos | • One or more fixed-frequency samples for testing. • External and internal photos clearly showing PCB, shielding, and labeling. |
| Compliance & Administrative Documents | • FCC Application Form with product and frequency details. • Power of Attorney (POA) and Confidentiality Letter signed by the applicant. • User Manual containing the FCC warning statement: “Changes or modifications not approved by the manufacturer may void the user's authority to operate this equipment.” |
| Test Reports (from accredited lab) | • RF Test Report (FCC Part 15C/E) • EMC Test Report (FCC Part 15B) • SAR Test Report (for ≤20 cm use, per KDB 447498 D01 V07) |
RF Performance: Frequency range, power output, spurious emissions
EMC: Radiated and conducted emissions
SAR: Human exposure compliance for body-worn and handheld devices
After testing, the lab submits reports and documentation to a TCB.
If all information meets FCC standards, the FCC ID certificate is issued and uploaded to the public FCC database.
After approval:
Mark product permanently with “FCC ID: XXXX-XXXXXXX”.
Do not use the FCC logo — only the ID text is allowed.
Appoint a U.S. Agent for official FCC communication.
Retain all technical files and test reports for at least 5 years.
Update testing if the product design, hardware, or antenna changes.
| Cost Component | Description | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Testing Fees | RF, EMC, and SAR testing (varies by complexity). | $700 – $2,100 |
| Application & Registration Fees | FRN & Grantee Code application. | $70 (one-time) |
| Service & Documentation Fees | Application, report handling, POA, etc. | $420 – $1,120 |
Typical Total Cost:
Basic Devices (Bluetooth speakers, routers): $1,000 – $1,400
Medium Complexity Devices (multi-band Wi-Fi, IoT): $1,500 – $3,000
High Complexity Devices (5G smartphones, industrial modules): $5,000 – $7,000 +
✅ 1. Choose Labs Compliant with the New Security Program
Ensure the lab or TCB is not linked to any prohibited entities under the September 2025 rule.
✅ 2. Conduct Pre-Testing or GAP Analysis
Identify RF and EMC risks early to avoid re-testing delays and cost overruns.
✅ 3. Update Designs to Meet New Technical Standards
Include support for Wi-Fi 6E spectrum mask rules, VLP 6GHz band expansion, and SAR V07 accuracy during product R&D.
✅ 4. Maintain Document Accuracy
Ensure the product name, model, and manufacturer match exactly across forms, nameplates, and reports to prevent review rejection.
✅ 5. Monitor Ongoing Compliance
If your hardware or antenna changes, or if FCC regulations update, perform additional testing promptly.
Security Rule Effective Date: September 8, 2025
SAR Rule Update: March 31, 2025 (KDB 447498 D01 V07)
Expanded 6GHz Band: For VLP and Wi-Fi 6E devices
AI Review System: Faster TCB decisions (3–5 weeks)
At Blue Asia Technology (Shenzhen), we provide end-to-end FCC ID certification solutions that combine cost efficiency, speed, and accuracy — fully aligned with 2025’s updated regulations.
Our services include:
FCC ID testing (RF, EMC, SAR)
Compliance with FCC 2025 Security Program
TCB review management and documentation support
Multi-market access (FCC, CE, ISED, RCM, KC)
king.guo@cblueasia.com
+86 135 3422 5140
Ensure your products meet the latest 2025 FCC compliance standards and enter the U.S. market smoothly.
Request a Free FCC ID Consultation →
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