Bringing a wireless device to market in the United States requires FCC certification. For most manufacturers, a Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) handles this process. Understanding TCB certification, the testing requirements, and how to navigate the process efficiently can significantly reduce your time-to-market and avoid costly compliance delays.
When a TCB certifies your device, they confirm that it meets FCC standards for radio-frequency emissions and electromagnetic compatibility. You cannot legally sell wireless products in the U.S. without this certification.
What You’ll Learn
- TCB certification requirements for U.S. market access
- The testing and approval process
- Technologies that need certification
- How to accelerate your timeline
What Is TCB Certification?
A TCB is an organization authorized by the FCC to test and certify wireless products for sale in the U.S. Instead of submitting directly to the FCC for every product, manufacturers work with accredited TCBs that issue certifications.
Accreditation Requirement: TCBs must hold ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation for certification bodies. This standard verifies technical competence and quality management systems.
When a TCB certifies your device, they confirm that it meets FCC standards for radio-frequency emissions and electromagnetic compatibility. The TCB reviews all submissions and issues an FCC ID, which must be displayed on your product.
The FCC Testing and Certification Process
| Stage | Activities | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Testing | Review specs, identify FCC rules, and determine test requirements | 1-2 days |
| Sample Submission | Submit device and technical documentation | 1 day |
| RF Testing | Test radio frequency parameters, measure emissions | 3-7 days |
| EMC/EMI Testing | Test electromagnetic compatibility and interference | 2-5 days |
| Specialized Testing | DFS, CBRS, co-location testing (if needed) | 2-4 days |
| Report Generation | Compile test data and documentation | 1-2 days |
| Review & Approval | TCB reviews data and issues the FCC ID | 1-3 days |
What Technologies Need Certification?
Different wireless technologies have specific FCC testing requirements:| Technology | FCC Part | Key Tests |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi (2.4/5/6 GHz) | Part 15 | RF emissions, power output, spurious emissions |
| Bluetooth / BLE | Part 15 | RF testing, frequency hopping, power measurements |
| Cellular (2G-5G) | Part 22, 24, 27 | Band testing, SAR testing, network compatibility |
| Zigbee | Part 15 | RF emissions, coexistence testing |
| RFID | Part 15 | Read range, interference testing |
| LoRa | Part 15 | Duty cycle, power spectral density |
| CBRS | Part 96 | Spectrum sharing requirements |
| DFS Devices | Part 15 | Radar detection capability |
| Fixed Microwave Services | Part 101 | Microwave fixed link |
Co-location Testing: Co-location testing applies when multiple wireless modules operate simultaneously in one device. The FCC requires verification that modules don’t interfere with each other.
Required Testing Capabilities
RF and Wireless Testing
Labs must test radio frequencies up to 220 GHz for current 5G and future technologies. Tests verify devices transmit on authorized frequencies, stay within power limits, and don’t generate excess emissions. Antenna characterization includes 2D and 3D radiation patterns. These tests document how your device radiates energy in different directions.Specialized Requirements
- DFS Testing: Verifies that 5 GHz devices detect weather radar and automatically switch channels.
- CBRS Testing: Applies to devices using 3.5 GHz spectrum and requires specific spectrum-sharing capabilities.
Safety and Environmental
Devices undergo safety testing to verify they don’t pose electrical or thermal hazards. Environmental testing includes temperature extremes, humidity, and immunity verification.How Modern Platforms Accelerate Certification
Traditional certification involves manual coordination and waiting for updates. Advanced TCBs use automated platforms that provide direct visibility.Real-Time Testing Access
Cloud-based platforms connect to lab equipment and feed live data during testing. Engineering teams monitor results as tests execute. They can identify issues immediately and adjust designs before completing the full suite.
Platforms generate structured reports in a hyperlinked format. Measured data appear sequentially, with graphics in an appendix. Engineers click links to view specific charts without disrupting their review.
You can export provisional PDFs during testing. If a device fails a test, the team begins troubleshooting immediately.
Management Systems
ISO 17065-compliant systems handle workflows from consultation through certification. They provide:- Templates for all required FCC forms and technical files organized by device type
- Real-time tracking showing project status
- Automated alerts when action is required
- Contract user access for high-volume manufacturers
High-volume manufacturers get contract user access. These users create trackers, upload documentation, and receive automated estimates without direct TCB involvement. They submit to quality systems only when ready for final review. This autonomy cuts time-to-market significantly.
Making Certification More Efficient
Submit Complete Documentation
Incomplete applications cause delays. Before submission, verify you have:- Technical specs for all wireless functions
- User manuals showing FCC ID placement
- Schematics and block diagrams
- Antenna specs and installation instructions
- Label drawings with compliance statements
Optimize Your Device for Testing
Submit devices that match your final production design. Changes to RF circuitry, antenna design, or power output require recertification or Class II Permissive Change filings.Plan for Specialized Tests
DFS bands or CBRS spectrum require additional testing time. Factor these requirements into your schedule.Use Platform Access
TCBs with platform access let engineering teams monitor progress and access preliminary results. This visibility helps address issues faster than traditional workflows.Choosing Your TCB Partner
Evaluate these factors when selecting a TCB:| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Accreditation Status | Verify current ISO/IEC 17065 certificates covering the scopes your device requires. |
| Technical Capabilities | Confirm the TCB has equipment and expertise for your wireless technologies. A lab specializing in consumer Wi-Fi may lack capabilities for satellite communications or millimeter-wave 5G. |
| Platform Integration | Modern platforms reduce time-to-market significantly compared to manual processes. |
| Multi-Market Authority | If you need certifications beyond the U.S., consider TCBs with Foreign Certification Body status in Canada or Notified Body status in the EU. This streamlines global market access. |
| Category Experience | TCBs develop expertise in specific product types. One specializing in IoT devices will better understand regulatory requirements for sensor networks than a lab focused on consumer electronics. |
Global Certification Considerations
Manufacturers often need to sell in multiple countries. Some TCBs hold certification authority in multiple markets through Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs):| Market | Authority Type | Process |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Foreign Certification Body | Direct certification under bilateral MRA |
| European Union | Notified Body | Direct certification under the US-EU MRA |
| United Kingdom | Approved Body | Direct certification under the US-UK MRA |
| Japan | Registered Certification Body | Direct certification under the US-Japan MRA |
MRA Benefits: MRAs allow certain TCBs to certify for multiple countries through a single testing process. For markets without MRA coverage, TCBs conduct testing and submit reports to local authorities, who review and issue certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does TCB certification take?
Standard certifications typically take 10-20 days from sample submission to FCC ID issuance, depending on device complexity and testing requirements. Devices requiring specialized testing (DFS, CBRS) may take longer.
Standard certifications typically take 10-20 days from sample submission to FCC ID issuance, depending on device complexity and testing requirements. Devices requiring specialized testing (DFS, CBRS) may take longer.
Can I start selling before receiving my FCC ID?
No. The FCC prohibits marketing, importing, or selling wireless devices before certification is complete. Violations can result in significant penalties.
No. The FCC prohibits marketing, importing, or selling wireless devices before certification is complete. Violations can result in significant penalties.
What happens if my device fails testing?
The lab provides detailed failure reports identifying non-compliant parameters. You can modify the device and resubmit for testing. Modern platforms provide real-time results, allowing you to identify and address issues faster.
The lab provides detailed failure reports identifying non-compliant parameters. You can modify the device and resubmit for testing. Modern platforms provide real-time results, allowing you to identify and address issues faster.
Do firmware updates require recertification?
It depends. Software changes that modify RF parameters (transmit power, modulation, frequency range) require recertification or a Class II Permissive Change filing. Bug fixes and feature additions that don’t affect radio performance typically do not.
It depends. Software changes that modify RF parameters (transmit power, modulation, frequency range) require recertification or a Class II Permissive Change filing. Bug fixes and feature additions that don’t affect radio performance typically do not.
How long does an FCC ID remain valid?
FCC IDs have no expiration date. However, you must maintain compliance with current FCC rules. If rules change, you may need to update your device or obtain new certification.
FCC IDs have no expiration date. However, you must maintain compliance with current FCC rules. If rules change, you may need to update your device or obtain new certification.
Next Steps
TCB certification is required for access to the U.S. wireless market. Modern TCBs have developed platforms that reduce complexity and timeline compared to traditional processes. Submit complete documentation, partner with a TCB offering platform integration and relevant expertise, and plan for specialized testing requirements. These steps move you from prototype to market-ready product efficiently.
MiCOM Labs TCB Certification: MiCOM Labs provides TCB certification with A2LA accreditation (ISO/IEC 17025 Certificate #2381.01 and ISO/IEC 17065 Certificate #2381.02). We hold direct certification authority in the U.S., Canada, the EU, the UK, and Japan. Our MiTest® and MiCMS® platforms provide real-time visibility into testing and certification progress.