How many types of FCC certifications are there?

FCC certification is a mandatory approval required for electronic and electrical products to enter the U.S. market. It acts as a passport for market access. Following the implementation of the latest regulation FCC 10-208, FCC certification is divided into two main categories:

- fcc sdoc (Supplier's Declaration of Conformity)

- fcc id Certification

What is FCC Certification?

FCC certification refers to the compliance requirements set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for radio frequency devices and telecommunications equipment in the United States. The FCC is an independent U.S. government agency responsible for managing and regulating the use of radio frequencies and telecommunications devices to prevent harmful interference and ensure compliance with U.S. communication regulations.

FCC SDoC ensures that radio equipment complies with electromagnetic compatibility requirements to minimize interference and ensure safety and a good user experience.

FCC ID certification applies to products that use wireless technology or radio frequencies, including but not limited to wireless communication devices, wireless network equipment, Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi equipment, wireless remote controls, wireless audio devices, etc.

How many types of FCC certification are there?

There are two main types of FCC certification:

- FCC SDoC: Suitable for general electronic products without wireless functions, such as electronic scales, humidifiers, robotic vacuum cleaners, and electric fans.

- FCC ID: Required for products with radio frequency emissions, such as Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi equipment, wireless alarm systems, radio transmitters and receivers, mobile phones, computers, etc.

Note: Some e-commerce platforms may require both FCC ID certification and an FCC SDoC report for wireless products.

What are the FCC certification standards?

FCC certification primarily covers two areas:

- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): Ensures that the device does not interfere with other equipment during normal operation.

- Radio Frequency (RF) Emissions: Ensures radiation levels are within the safe limits to protect human health.

FCC Certification Process

PART 01: Product Classification and Standard Confirmation

- Identify the category your product falls into under FCC regulations (e.g., intentional or unintentional radiators).

- Confirm applicable standards (e.g., fcc part 15, Part 18).

PART 02: Prepare Application Documents

- Application form: Includes company name, address, contact person, product name and model, applicable standards, etc.

- Technical documents:

- Block diagram: Must include all oscillators and their frequencies, consistent with the circuit diagram.

- Circuit diagram: Must align with the block diagram’s oscillator details.

- Line description: In English, clearly explaining the product's functional principles.

- User manual: Must include FCC warning statements.

Labs can assist if you encounter issues during this phase.

PART 03: Prepare Test Samples and Select Test Lab

- Choose an FCC-recognized testing lab (e.g., JJR Lab).

- Submit application forms and technical documents.

- Provide at least one working sample for testing.

- The lab will conduct EMC, RF, and safety tests to ensure compliance.

PART 04: Review and Certification

- After testing, the lab compiles a test report for review by the certification body.

- If approved, FCC issues the certificate or FCC ID.

- For FCC ID, information must be registered and made public on the FCC website.

Differences Between FCC SDoC and FCC ID Certification

01. FCC SDoC Process:

- The responsible party (manufacturer, assembler, importer, retailer, or authorized agent) tests the product through an FCC-accredited lab and prepares a report.

- If the product passes, appropriate labeling is applied, and a Declaration of Conformity is included in the manual.

- The test report must be retained for potential FCC inspection.

Note: Some platforms may still require both SDoC and FCC ID documentation.

02. FCC ID Certification Notes:

- First-time applicants must obtain a permanent Grantee Code (GC).

- An authorized U.S. agent is required (labs can assist if needed).

- Submit all materials (including test reports) via the online system (FCC Forms 731 and 159).

- TCB reviews the application and test results.

- If approved, FCC issues the certification. If not, applicants must revise and resubmit.

FCC Certification Validity and Modifications

PART 01: Validity Period:

- FCC certification is generally valid indefinitely.

- However, any product changes (e.g., circuitry, components, firmware) that affect compliance may require re-certification.

PART 02: Certificate Modifications:

- Changes in product details (e.g., color, model) or company details (e.g., address) must be reported to the FCC.

- If the change requires re-certification, a new FCC ID will be issued.

- Careful review is essential before submitting documentation.

How to Apply the FCC Label?

PART 01: FCC SDoC Labeling:

1. fcc logo is optional and voluntary under FCC SDoC (per Section 2.1074).

2. The responsible party must be a U.S.-based entity able to provide samples, test reports, and documentation upon FCC request.

3. A Declaration of Conformity must accompany the product and include:

 - Product information (name, model)

 - fcc compliance warning statement

 - Responsible party details (name, address, phone or online contact)

PART 02: FCC ID Labeling:

1. Products must display the FCC ID once certified.

 - The FCC ID must be clear, legible, and visible without magnification.

 - Example: FCC ID: XXXXXXXX

2. The user manual must include the following advisory:

 > "Important: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment."

3. Applicants must retain all records including reports, documents, and applications for future audits or investigations.