For any wireless product entering the European Union (EU) market, understanding the cost of CE-RED certification is e
ssential for accurate budgeting and planning.
This guide summarizes the latest 2025 cost data, including factors influencing pricing, average cost ranges for different product types, and practical strategies to reduce expenses — helping you manage your CE-RED certification process efficiently and cost-effectively.
CE-RED certification fees vary widely depending on several factors:
Simple devices (e.g., Bluetooth-only) cost less.
Multi-band devices (e.g., Wi-Fi + Bluetooth + 4G/5G) require more testing, especially for coexistence and power performance — increasing costs.
Core tests: Radio Frequency (RF) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) are mandatory.
Additional tests: Depending on the product, Electrical Safety (LVD) and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) may apply for body-worn devices, adding to total fees.
| Type | Description | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Laboratory | Suitable for standard consumer products such as Bluetooth speakers. | Lower cost |
| EU Notified Body (NB) | Required for high-risk or non-harmonized devices (e.g., drones, professional radio equipment). Certificates carry higher credibility. | 30–80 % higher cost |
Renowned NBs (e.g., TÜV, SGS) are usually more expensive than smaller local labs.
| Product Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Key Testing Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Wireless Devices (e.g., Bluetooth headset, speaker) | ≈ $2,100 – $4,200 USD (some ultra-simple devices as low as ≈ $420 – $850) | Basic RF performance and EMC testing |
| Medium-Complexity Devices (e.g., Wi-Fi router) | ≈ $4,200 – $11,200 USD | Multi-band testing (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz), EMC, and Electrical Safety (LVD) |
| High-Complexity Devices (e.g., 4G / 5G IoT terminal) | ≈ $7,000 – $17,000 USD | Cellular protocol, SAR, multi-band, and security evaluation |
Beyond direct laboratory testing, additional expenses are typically involved:
| Cost Component | Estimated USD Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Documentation & Service Fees | ≈ $700 – $2,100 USD | Preparation of technical files, circuit diagrams, user manuals, and DoC drafts |
| EU Authorized Representative (EAR) | ≈ $1,100 – $2,800 USD / year | Mandatory for non-EU manufacturers |
| Expedited Service Option | +30 % – 50 % of total | For faster 2–3 week turnaround |
| Factory Audit (High-risk devices) | ≈ $2,800 – $7,000 USD per audit | Required for certain industrial or medical wireless products |
| Annual Maintenance / Renewal Fees | Varies | EAR and consulting services often require yearly renewal |
Perform pre-testing or GAP analysis before formal submission.
This step identifies potential issues early, avoiding costly re-testing later.
For mainstream consumer devices, CNAS-accredited domestic labs can deliver compliant results at a lower cost.
Reserve Notified Body testing only for products that legally require it.
If your product integrates a wireless module already CE-RED certified, you can reuse its test data to shorten test scope and save up to 30 % in cost.
Many regions offer “International Market Development” grants or export testing funds, which can reimburse up to ≈ $4,200 USD (≈ 30,000 RMB) in testing fees.
| Process Type | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Standard Process | 4 – 8 weeks |
| Complex Products | Up to 12 weeks |
| Expedited Service | 2 – 3 weeks (with additional fee) |
Blue Asia Technology (Shenzhen) is an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited third-party testing laboratory providing end-to-end CE-RED solutions for wireless and IoT manufacturers worldwide.
Our services include:
CE-RED Testing & Certification (RF, EMC, LVD, SAR, Cybersecurity EN 18031)
FCC / UKCA / KC / SRRC / MIC / RCM multi-market approvals
Bluetooth SIG BQB, Wi-Fi Alliance, and USB-IF certification
Pre-testing consulting and cost optimization strategy
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +86 135 3422 5140
1️⃣ What is the average cost of CE-RED certification?
→ Usually between ≈ $2,000 – $10,000 USD depending on product complexity and test scope.
2️⃣ Why do Notified Body tests cost more?
→ Because they include legal review and NB number assignment required for high-risk equipment.
3️⃣ How can we reduce CE-RED testing expenses?
→ Use pre-testing, module reuse, and choose CNAS-accredited labs for standard products.
4️⃣ Are there annual fees after certification?
→ Generally yes, for EU Authorized Representative (EAR) maintenance and consulting support.
5️⃣ Can SMEs apply for financial support?
→ Yes. Local government programs may subsidize testing expenses by up to ≈ $4,000 USD.
Need a Precise CE-RED Cost Estimate for Your Product?
Blue Asia Technology provides transparent pricing, multi-market bundled plans, and professional guidance to reduce your total testing budget.
Request a Free CE-RED Cost Consultation →
king.guo@cblueasia.com +86 135 3422 5140
Related News
