Planning to launch an electronic product in the U.S.? You’ll need FCC certification to ensure compliance with federal regulations. Without it, selling your product legally isn’t an option. But finding the right FCC certification service can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down the FCC certification process, how to pick a reliable FCC certification lab, and what to expect from FCC certification testing.
What Is FCC Certification?
FCC certification is required for radio frequency-releasing electronic devices. FCC certification assures that your product complies with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requirements and will not interfere with other electronic equipment. Your product will receive an FCC certification number following certification, which can be checked by an FCC certification search.
What is FCC Certification?
- Legal Requirement: If you don’t have it, you can’t sell or distribute your product in the U.S.
- Market Trust: Consumers and sellers trust certified products.
- Avoiding Penalties: Selling non-certified products can lead to heavy fines.
The FCC Certification Process
The following is a quick overview of the FCC certification process:
- Determine Certification Type: Your product might need full FCC certification or a Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC).
- Find an FCC Certification Laboratory: Select an FCC-accepted test lab for conformity testing.
- Conduct FCC Certification Testing: Radiofrequency emissions, electromagnetic interference (EMI), and safety compliance are tested in labs.
- Submit an Application: Reports of testing are submitted and processed by the TCB for authorization.
- Obtain an FCC Certification Number: Your product is given an official number upon authorization.
- Marking and Compliance: Your product needs to be marked with the FCC mark and certification number.
How to Choose the Best FCC Certification Service
It will hurt less if you have the proper certification partner. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Accredited FCC Certification Labs
Obtain an appropriately accredited FCC certification lab. You can check their status by performing an FCC certification search.
2. Experience in Your Industry
Select a lab with some background in testing products such as yours—wireless products, IoT products, industrial electronics, etc.
3. Complete Test Services
FCC certification service of the best should encompass:
- FCC CE certification testing
- EMI/EMC testing for compliance
- RF exposure measurements
- Environmental testing and durability testing
4. Short Turnaround Time
Request certification time. Procrastination will damage your release.
5. Reasonable Cost
Make comparisons of fees of various laboratories. Don’t settle for the lowest—one good with quality cannot be the lowest.
Typical FCC Certification Challenges & Solutions
- Product Fails Testing: Rework and re-test your product with your lab.
- Documenting Errors: Complete all of the paperwork correctly.
- Changing Regulations: Stay up to speed on the current FCC regulations in order to be caught off guard by nothing.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining FCC certification does not have to be intimidating, but selecting a reputable lab and knowing the process makes it extremely streamlined. Using an excellent FCC certification service ensures compliance, prevents delays, and brings your product to market profitably. Begin your FCC certification search today and get your product off to a great start!