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What is FCC certification?
In the U.S., the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates all products containing radio transmitters (radio, marine and satellite equipment) in areas such as electromagnetic interference, radio frequency (RF) exposure and spectrum allocation.
Mobile communications equipment and other products capable of radio communication must be certified compliant by a Telecommunications Certification Body (TCB) appointed by the FCC before being placed on the market.
As an authorised FCC TCB, TÜV SÜD can advise you on which regulations are relevant to you, and support you with the necessary tests to help you comply.
Why FCC certification is important
To access the U.S. marine radio and telecoms equipment market, manufacturers and importers must ensure that their products meet all criteria for FCC certification. Non-compliance may lead to costly delays, fines and forfeitures, as well as reputation-damaging product recalls.
Expert advice on applicable requirements and regulations, as well as compliance strategy guidance, can help ensure FCC acceptance.
How TÜV SÜD can help you with FCC certification
TÜV SÜD can help you to determine which FCC rules, requirements and procedures apply to your product, supporting you to meet time-to-market targets without running the risk of having products blocked by the U.S. authorities. TÜV SÜD can also provide third-party testing so that you can create a technical compliance file.
Our certification body, TÜV SÜD BABT, is an FCC TCB appointed under the EU-USA Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). It is authorised to certify and approve devices, as well as assess and issue equipment approvals on the FCC authorisation database.
TÜV SÜD’s pre-compliance product evaluation service will help you identify potential issues with a product at an early stage of product development. Our compliance strategy guidance will help prepare the product for formal testing and we can also help determine the appropriate FCC authorisation route for the product.
What our FCC certification services include
TÜV SÜD provides FCC certification services for manufacturers and suppliers of radio and navigation equipment wishing to gain access to the US market. As an FCC TCB, TÜV SÜD BABT can issue grants for equipment within the following categories:
- CFR 47 Part 15 – Unlicensed radio frequency devices.
- CFR 47 Part 22 – Public mobile services.
- CFR 47 Part 24 – Personal communication service.
- CFR 47 Part 27 – Miscellaneous wireless communication devices.
- CFR 47 Part 80 – Maritime services.
- CFR 47 Part 87 – Aviation services.
- CFR 47 Part 90 – Private land mobile radio service.
- CFR 47 Part 95 – Personal radio services.
- CFR 47 Part 2.1091 & 2.1093 – Radio-frequency radiation exposure.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What changes is the FCC planning to make?
The FCC is proposing new rules that could limit the use of test labs located in countries without an MRA (Mutual Recognition Agreement) or similar agreement with the USA for FCC compliance testing. The FCC also plans to increase market surveillance and enforcement activities, track the location of TCB staff, and continues to closely review certification approvals for some routers manufactured outside the USA.
Which types of testing and products could be affected by the FCC update?
The proposed changes would affect EMC, RF/wireless, and RF exposure testing for electronic and wireless products, including both SDoC and Certification processes.
When will the new rules by the FCC take effect?
The FCC voted on the proposal on 30 April 2026, but the final rules and implementation dates have not yet been announced. A two-year phase-out period is being considered once the rules officially take effect.
Are there benefits to using US-based test labs?
There could possibly be some benefits as the FCC is considering faster processing for complex PAG projects tested in US laboratories.
What should manufacturers do regarding the FCC update?
Manufacturers should stay informed about upcoming FCC rule changes and review their testing and certification strategies, especially if they currently use labs in countries without an MRA with the USA.
How can TÜV SÜD support companies through the FCC changes?
TÜV SÜD provides FCC-listed EMC, wireless/RF and RF exposure testing and certification services across Asia, Europe, the USA, and Canada, helping companies navigate changing compliance requirements. We also have a global team of technical experts and market access specialists who can help you understand the rules.
