Wireless Product Export to EU CE-RED

Are you struggling with exporting wireless products to the EU? What exactly is CE-RED certification? Which products must be certified? What are the testing items? How shoULd you prepare the documents?

Don’t worry! Here comes the most comprehensive CE-RED guide online! From directive interpretation, product scope, testing standards, required documents, to the certification process – everything explained in one place! Highly recommended to bookmark + share for future reference.

What is CE-RED Certification?

In short:Wireless devices exported to the EU must undergo RED certification!

RED (Radio Equipment Directive) is a mandatory directive under the EU CE certification framework specifically for wireless devices. Any product with wireless functionality—such as Bluetooth, WiFi, RF, mobile phones, smart devices, etc.—must have CE-RED certification to enter the EU market. It’s the key to the door!

Which Products Must Undergo RED Certification?

Short Range Devices (SRD)

Examples: Remote control toys, alarms, doorbells, wireless switches, keyboards & MICe

Professional Mobile Radio (PMR)

Examples: Walkie-talkies, wireless microphones

Wireless Telephone Equipment

Examples: DECT phones, mobile phones, ISDN devices

Bluetooth Devices

Examples: Headphones, speakers, wristbands, watches

Other Wireless Devices

Examples: Tablets, routers, smart home devices, robot vacuums, drones

Overview of RED Testing Items

- Electromagnetic Compatibility Test (EMC)

- Safety Test (LVD) — especially for battery-powered devices!

- Radio Frequency Test (RF) — executed according to ETSI standards

- Spectrum Notification

- CTR/TBR Test

- SAR Assessment — safety test for human radiation exposure

Required Documentation for Certification (Must-Have!)

- User Manual

- Circuit Schematic, Block Diagram, PCB Layout

- BOM (Bill of Materials)

- Product Label Images (including ce mark)

- Antenna Specifications

- Fixed-frequency Software (mandatory for WIFI/Bluetooth!)

- Charger LVD Report (if applicable)

5-Step RED Certification Process

1. Confirm whether the product falls within the scope

2. Prepare technical documentation (as listed above)

3. Send samples for laboratory testing

4. Draft the Declaration of Conformity

5. Affix CE mark and launch the product!

Watch Out for These Pitfalls!

- Battery-powered devices also require safety testing (LVD)

- Bluetooth and WIFI products must provide fixed-frequency software

- Different frequency bands correspond to different testing standards – choose carefully!

- Keep technical documentation for 10 years for potential inspection

Common Product Testing Standards Reference

Bluetooth/WIFI

- RF Standard: EN 300 328

- EMC Standard: EN 301 489-17

- Safety Standard: en 62311

2.4GHz Devices

- RF Standard: EN 300 440

- EMC Standard: EN 301 489-7

- Safety Standard: EN 50371

Mobile Phones/GSM

- RF Standard: EN 301 511

- EMC Standard: EN 301 489-7

- Safety Standard: EN 50360

Walkie-talkies

- RF Standard: EN 300 296/086

- EMC Standard: EN 301 489

- Safety Standard: en 60065

RED certification is not optional; it’s a must-have entry pass for the EU market! Plan ahead, choose the right laboratory, and prepare the documents properly to ensure smooth export.