What it means
Any device that transmits radio energy in the United States normally needs an FCC authorization before it can be marketed or imported. Devices fall into Certification, Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity or verification routes depending on the radio technology.
Applies to
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular and sub-GHz radios
- Unintentional radiators such as switching electronics
- Wireless modules and host devices that contain them
What it does not cover
- Electrical safety, which is handled by NRTL listing such as UL or ETL
- RF exposure to users unless the device is assessed against the exposure limits
- Cybersecurity or privacy of the device or its cloud
Verification checklist
- Identify the correct authorization route for each radio
- Test to the applicable FCC rule part at an accredited lab
- Keep the FCC ID label and user manual statements accurate
- Complete the supplier’s declaration or certification filing
- List the module grant conditions when using a pre-certified module