Where Can I Get a UKCA Certificate?

With the UK's official withdrawal from the EU, the ce marking has lost its validity in the UK. The ukca (UK Conformity Assessed) certification has now become the essential "key" for businesses to access the UK market. Many foreign trade practitioners and manufacturers are still unfamiliar with this certification process, so this article provides a comprehensive breakdown to help you master the essentials.

What is UKCA?

UKCA stands for UK Conformity Assessed. It is a new product compliance marking introduced by the UK after Brexit. It applies to goods sold in England, Wales, and Scotland, and replaces the EU’s CE marking.

Important:UKCA does notapply in Northern Ireland. Products in Northern Ireland must still carry either the CE markor the UKNI markfor compliance.

> UKCA logo image shown here is for educational purposes only. Copyright belongs to the official authority.

Product Categories Covered by UKCA

UKCA applies to most products that previously required CE marking. Key categories include:

- Household appliances (e.g., refrigerators, microwave ovens)

- Electronic devices (e.g., phones, computer accessories)

- Machinery and equipment (e.g., industrial machinery)

- Toys (e.g., children's toys, play equipment)

- Construction products (e.g., building materials, structural parts)

- Personal protective equipment (e.g., safety helmets, protective suits)

- Wireless devices (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi equipment, radio devices)

Main Differences Between UKCA and CE 

While UKCA and CE are based on similar principles, they differ in the following areas:

- Geographic Scope:

  CE is valid in the EU and EEA countries; UKCA is valid only in the UK mainland (England, Wales, Scotland).

- Applicable Regulations:

  CE certification follows EU legislation; UKCA follows UK domestic legislation.

- Testing Bodies:

  CE uses EU Notified Bodies; UKCA uses UK Approved Bodies (e.g., accredited by UKAS).

- Marking:

  CE uses the “CE” logo; UKCA uses the “UKCA” logo.

Summary: UKCA is not the same as CE, even though they may share similar technical standards. Their legal bases and procedures differ.

ukca certification Timeline

Originally, UKCA was scheduled to replace CE by the end of 2021. However, the UK government has extended the transition period several times.

Until December 31, 2025, most products may still use the CE mark.

From January 1, 2026, products must carry the UKCA markingto be sold in the UK (unless otherwise specified for specific industries).

Step-by-Step: UKCA Certification Process ?

1. Determine if your product requires UKCA certification.

2. Identify applicable UK legislation and standards(e.g., BS, EN).

3. Choose a conformity assessment route:

   - Self-declaration for low-risk products 

   - Third-party testing for high-risk items

4. Prepare technical documentation, including:

   - Risk assessment

   - Test reports

   - Product manuals

5. Create and sign the UK Declaration of Conformity.

6. Affix the UKCA markingto the product or its packaging.

The application rules for the UKCA mark—such as size and visibility—are similar to the CE mark and must be followed carefully.

What’s Included in the UKCA Technical File?

Your UKCA technical documentation should include:

- Basic product details (name, function, specifications)

- Applicable UK regulations and standard numbers

- Design drawings and technical diagrams

- Test reports from recognized labs

- Safety risk assessment documents

- Signed UK Declaration of Conformity

All documents must be retained for 10 yearsand be ready for inspection by authorities.

What Is the UK Declaration of Conformity?

The UK DoC is similar to the EU CE version. It must include:

- Manufacturer’s name and address

- Product name and model number

- List of applicable UK legislation

- Name, position, and signature of the signatory

- A statement that the product complies with UKCA marking requirements

UKCA Certification FAQ

Can I display both UKCA and CE marks on my product?

Yes, if the product meets both sets of requirements and will be sold in both the UK and EU markets.

Do I need a third-party body to certify my product?

Not always. Some low-risk products (like simple electronics) can be self-declared. High-risk products (like pressure equipment or medical devices) require third-party testing.

Can I use my existing ce certificate for UKCA?

No. The UK does notrecognize CE certificates from EU Notified Bodies. You must use a UK Approved Body for UKCA certification.

How to Find a UKCA Approved Body?

You can search for officially designated UKCA certification bodies via the UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/uk-market-conformity-assessment-bodies

Need help navigating the UKCA process? Get in touch with China JJR Test Labfor expert guidance and services tailored to your product and industry.