What Is FCC Bluetooth Certification?

Bluetooth is a short-range wireless communication technology operating primarily in the 2.4 GHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, Medical) open frequency band. Since this frequency band is globally available and does not require a license, it is strictly regulated to prevent interference between devices (such as Wi-Fi, cordless phones, microwaves, etc., which also use this band). Therefore, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) enforces mandatory regulations on transmission characteristics within this band.

All Bluetooth devices sold or used in the U.S. market—including electronic products with built-in Bluetooth modules such as mobile phones, headsets, earbuds, and smart home devices—must obtain FCC certification and bear an fcc id. Without this, legal sales in the U.S. are prohibited.

What is FCC Certification?

FCC certification is a mandatory approval process for electronic devices entering the U.S. market, especially wireless devices. Its core purpose is to ensure that devices comply with U.S. standards for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and radio frequency spectrum usage. This prevents interference with other devices and protects users’ safety and rights.

Which Type of FCC Certification Does Your Product Need?

Depending on whether the product has wireless functionality, FCC certification is mainly divided into two categories:

1. FCC ID Certification:For products with wireless functions, such as mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi equipment, tablets, and wireless walkie-talkies.

2. fcc sdoc (Supplier's Declaration of Conformity) Certification:For ordinary products without wireless functions, such as monitors, home appliances, lighting, computer hosts, printers, etc.

Additional notes:

Some products, like wireless keyboards and mice, require both FCC ID and sdoc certifications.

FCC ID is issued by a TCB (Telecommunication Certification Body), while SDoC can be declared by the manufacturer themselves.

Why Must You Apply for FCC Certification?

1. Legal Requirement:U.S. law explicitly prohibits the legal sale and use of products in the U.S. market without FCC certification.

2. Compliance and Safety Assurance:Certification confirms that the product meets electromagnetic compatibility and radio frequency standards, preventing interference with other devices and protecting users from external interference.

What Materials Are Needed to Apply for FCC Certification?

1. Product manual (including functions, technical specifications, usage instructions)

2. Product samples (for testing and evaluation)

3. Product photos (overall appearance + detailed shots)

4. Circuit diagrams and schematics (showing the circuit design)

5. Technical specification sheets (detailed technical parameters)

6. Test reports (functional and emc testing results)

7. Product labels and identification (model number, serial number, etc.)

8. FCC ID registration application form (company and product information)

9. Authorization letter for the authorized representative (for certification processing and document signing)

FCC Certification Process

1. Prepare materials:Gather detailed product information (description, manuals, specs, photos, etc.)

2. Select certification body:Choose an FCC-certified third-party agency or apply directly via the FCC website

3. Fill out application:Submit the application form and required materials as requested

4. Product testing:Complete a series of tests complying with FCC technical standards

5. Pay fees:Pay certification fees after successful testing

6. Review and approval:Certification body reviews materials and grants approval

7. Certificate issuance:Receive FCC certification proving product compliance

Key Compliance Requirements: Labels, Manuals, and Qualifications

(A) Physical Labeling Requirements

FCC ID Label

All devices emitting radio frequency energy must clearly display an FCC ID on the product. The label can be a sticker, etched mark, or electronic display and must be easily visible without magnification.

Format:The prefix must be uppercase “FCC ID,” for example:

`FCC ID: XXXXXXXXX`

❌ Incorrect formats include: FCCID, FCC IDENTIFIRE, FCC-ID, Fcc ID, FCC id, FCC ID (mouse), FCC I D, etc.

FCC Statements

Products certified via FCC SDoC or FCC ID must include one of the following compliance statements on their labels:

1. For receivers related to licensed radio services:

 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference.

2. For standalone cable input selector switches (e.g., cable boxes, DVD players, game consoles):

 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules for use with cable television service.

3. For all other devices:

 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Non-compliance with labeling requirements may result in FCC penalties, fines, or sales restrictions. Strict adherence is essential.

(B) User Manual Requirements for Class B Products

Include the following notice in the manual:

> Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

> —Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

> —Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

> —Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

> —Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Also include:

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

(C) FCC Qualification Requirements

Manufacturers must provide corresponding qualification documents to ensure product compliance:

1. FCC ID Certification:The certificate must reference compliance with 47 CFR fcc part 15C standards and display the “FCC ID / FCC IDENTIFIER.” The FCC ID must match information on the FCC database.

2. FCC SDoC Certification:Must include qualification certificates and corresponding test reports, indicating compliance with Federal Regulations (CFR) fcc part 15b.