FCC/CE Testing and Certification for Test Devices
If you’re developing test equipment—like RF testers, prototype boards, or spectrum analyzers—you might think compliance doesn’t apply because these are tools for engineers, not consumers. But in reality, many test devices still require FCC and CE certification before they can be sold or distributed in the U.S. or Europe.
Test equipment often includes radio transmitters, signal generators, and high-frequency electronic components that can emit electromagnetic interference (EMI) or operate on regulated RF bands. Whether you’re building a development board for internal use or a commercial signal tester, regulatory compliance is critical. We help hardware developers, labs, and tech companies get their test devices certified quickly and efficiently—so you stay compliant without slowing innovation.

Types of Test Devices We Can Test & Certify
If your device generates, transmits, or measures electronic signals—especially RF—it likely needs FCC and CE testing. Here are common test and development devices we handle:
- Test Transmitter
Devices designed to emit controlled signals for testing purposes must comply with RF transmission limits and frequency regulations. - Signal Tester
Tools that generate or analyze signals (RF, audio, or digital) require EMC testing and, if transmitting, RF certification. - Prototype Board
Development or evaluation boards with wireless modules (WiFi, Bluetooth, LoRa, etc.) often require compliance even if intended for engineering use. - Development Board
Boards used for IoT, embedded systems, or RF development need testing if they include pre-certified wireless modules or clock generators. - Radio Frequency Tester
RF test devices operating across regulated bands must meet strict FCC and CE rules regarding spurious emissions and power output. - Compliance Test Device
Tools designed to verify other products’ compliance can themselves require EMC and RF certification if they emit signals. - Spectrum Analyzer
While primarily a receiver, many spectrum analyzers include tracking generators or signal outputs—bringing them under compliance scope.
What to Know About FCC & CE Certification for Test Devices
For the U.S., FCC certification applies to any device that emits radio frequency energy—whether it’s for end-user applications or engineering environments. Test transmitters, development boards with wireless capability, and signal generators typically fall under FCC Part 15, but depending on frequency use and power levels, other parts may apply.
You’ll need:
- RF testing for intentional transmissions
- EMC testing for unintentional emissions from high-speed digital circuits, oscillators, and power supplies
- Verification that any RF emissions stay within legal frequency bands and power limits
For Europe, CE certification is required even for professional or lab-use equipment. Depending on your device, you’ll need to comply with:
- The Radio Equipment Directive (RED) for devices with wireless transmission
- The EMC Directive for all electronic devices generating potential interference
- The Low Voltage Directive (LVD) if your device is powered by mains or includes significant electrical components
Test equipment that emits RF energy—whether continuously or intermittently—must adhere to the same standards as commercial devices. Even prototype boards offered for sale can trigger compliance requirements, especially if they include active wireless modules.
FCC requires accredited lab testing and potential equipment authorization. CE is a self-declaration process, but you’re still responsible for compliance and maintaining a technical file.
You’ll typically need:
- RF and EMC testing
- Frequency compliance for RF outputs
- Safety evaluations for powered devices
- Technical documentation (user guides, schematics, test reports)
- Proper labeling (FCC compliance statement, CE mark)
- Retesting if you modify transmission capabilities, firmware, or hardware design

Our Testing & Certification Services
If you sell electronic device(s) online, we can help you with all major EMC certifications, including FCC (USA), CE (European Union), ISED (Canada) and others.
View our full EMC testing and certification list.
Contact Us About Your Project

FCC & CE Testing for Popular Electronic Products
Find device-specific certification guidance for your product with our comprehensive resources covering testing requirements, standards, and certification processes.
- Audio Equipment & Instrument Systems Compliance
- Automotive Tools Testing & Certification
- Bluetooth Headphones & Earbuds Testing and Certification
- Bluetooth Speakers and Audio Systems
- Charging Devices FCC & CE Compliance
- Computer Input Devices Testing Guide
- Computers & Tablets Compliance Testing
- Electric Mobility Devices Certification Guide
- Electronic Furniture Testing Requirements
- Home Entertainment Equipment Certification
- Printers & Printing Equipment Compliance
- Remote Controls Certification Requirements
- Smartwatches & Wearables Certification Guide
- Toys & Hobby Electronics Certification
- Wireless-Enabled Lighting Devices Testing
- Wireless Networking Devices Compliance
For detailed information about FCC certification costs for different device types visit our comprehensive pricing page where we break down all pricing options based on device complexity and testing requirements.


