Preparing complete documentation and understanding the “validity period” concept are crucial when applying for FCC ID certification for radio equipment.
In 2025, the FCC further clarified requirements for document transparency, U.S. agent authorization, and compliance maintenance, making document accuracy and retention more important than ever.
Below is the updated 2025 guide to help you navigate this process efficiently.
The following table summarizes the essential documentation you must prepare for your radio equipment FCC ID certification.
| Document Category | Core Content & Description | Special Reminders / 2025 Updates |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Qualification Documents | • FRN (FCC Registration Number): 10-digit code obtained via FCC CORES system. • Grantee Code: Permanent prefix issued during your first FCC ID application (≈ $70). • U.S. Agent Information: Name, address, and contact of the U.S. responsible party. | ✅ U.S. agent information is mandatory for all non-U.S. companies. |
| Product Technical Documents | • FCC ID Label & Location Diagram: Must follow the format “FCC ID: XXXX-XXXXXXX” and appear on the exterior housing. • Circuit Design Documents: Include block diagram (marking crystal frequencies), circuit schematic, and English operational description. • Product Photos: High-resolution external and internal photos. • RF Parameter Description: Frequency bands, output power, modulation type. | ✅ Ensure consistency between block diagram and schematic; internal photos must show PCB and shielding clearly. |
| Testing & Compliance Documents | • Test Report: Issued by an FCC-accredited laboratory covering RF, EMC, and other performance tests. • User Manual: Must include the FCC warning statement. • SAR Assessment Report: Mandatory for devices used ≤20 cm from the body, per KDB 447498 D01 V07 (2025 mandatory). | ⚠️ SAR testing must follow KDB 447498 D01 V07 (2025) — stricter accuracy requirements now apply. |
| Authorization & Declaration Documents | • Power of Attorney (POA): Signed by the company’s legal representative authorizing the lab or agent to submit the application. • Confidentiality Letter: Optional, used to protect sensitive product details. | ✅ POA must be signed by the legal representative; unsigned POAs are invalid. |
A frequent misconception is that FCC ID certificates never expire.
While true in theory—there is no fixed expiration date—the validity is conditional and can be revoked if specific criteria are not maintained.
Product Design Changes:
Major modifications in hardware, software, or antenna structure that affect RF or EMC performance require re-testing or re-certification.
FCC Standard Updates:
FCC periodically updates regulations (e.g., Part 15, SAR KDB rules).
Manufacturers must ensure ongoing compliance with the latest standards, or the certification automatically becomes obsolete.
Compliance Violations:
If user complaints or FCC investigations confirm non-compliance (e.g., radiation exceeds limits), the certificate can be revoked, and sales may be prohibited.
| Step | Core Task | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Register FRN & Apply Grantee Code | Register corporate info on the FCC CORES platform and obtain a permanent company prefix for FCC IDs. | Grantee Code fee ≈ $70 USD. |
| 2. Laboratory Testing | Send product samples to an FCC-accredited test lab for RF, EMC, and SAR testing. | Verify the lab is not on the FCC prohibited entity list (2025 rule). |
| 3. TCB Review | Submit test reports and technical files to a Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) for review. | TCB validates compliance and issues the FCC certificate. |
| 4. Certificate Issuance | The TCB uploads certification details to the FCC database, officially granting your FCC ID. | Products can now bear the FCC ID label. |
| 5. Post-Certification Compliance | Maintain product documentation and monitor regulatory changes. | Retain all technical documents for ≥ 5 years after production ends. |
✅ 1. Keep All Technical Files Organized Digitally
Maintain electronic copies of all reports, diagrams, and submissions in one secure archive for easy retrieval during FCC audits.
✅ 2. Conduct Internal Pre-Checks
Review all materials before TCB submission to ensure block diagrams, frequency data, and RF parameters are fully consistent.
✅ 3. Align with 2025 Security Regulations
Work only with laboratories that meet the FCC Equipment Authorization Security Program (effective September 8, 2025) and are free of restricted ownership links.
✅ 4. Update When Necessary
If hardware or antenna updates are made, contact your lab or certification consultant to determine if partial retesting is required.
✅ 5. Ensure SAR Compliance
For wearable and handheld devices, always test under the KDB 447498 D01 V07 (2025) SAR protocol for accurate human exposure validation.
Neglecting documentation accuracy or failing to maintain compliance may result in:
Product recall or market removal
Fines up to $16,000 per violation
Invalidated FCC certificate (requiring complete re-certification)
Reputation damage and restricted U.S. market access
Blue Asia Technology (Shenzhen) provides full-scope FCC ID testing and documentation support for radio equipment, ensuring every file and procedure complies with 2025 standards.
Our services include:
Preparation and verification of technical documentation packages
Full RF / EMC / SAR testing in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited labs
TCB submission management and review follow-up
Cybersecurity and SAR 2025 compliance consulting
king.guo@cblueasia.com | +86 135 3422 5140
Q1. How long must I keep FCC technical documents?
→ At least five years after production ends.
Q2. Does the FCC certificate expire?
→ No fixed expiry date—but it becomes invalid if the product or standards change.
Q3. What is the most common reason for re-certification?
→ Hardware or antenna redesigns that affect RF performance.
Q4. What new 2025 rule affects SAR testing?
→ KDB 447498 D01 V07 is now mandatory, increasing measurement accuracy by 30%.
Q5. Can FCC and CE documentation be reused?
→ No. The FCC and CE follow different EMC and RF standards; independent testing is required.
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