The FCC currently uses two principal equipment authorization procedures: Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity and Certification. SDoC is a supplier-controlled compliance procedure used for many unintentional radiators. Certification is a formal authorization issued by an FCC-recognized TCB after reviewing test data and the required application exhibits.
Under SDoC, the responsible party must be located in the United States and must ensure that the equipment complies with the applicable technical standards. The responsible party maintains supporting records, provides compliance information to the user, and makes the equipment available for inspection if requested.
Certification is typically required for intentional transmitters and certain other equipment classes. The application package may include test reports, operational descriptions, schematics, block diagrams, internal and external photographs, user manuals, RF exposure information, labeling exhibits, and confidentiality requests. Once granted, the product is identified by an FCC ID.
Choosing the correct procedure is not merely an administrative decision. It determines who assumes compliance responsibility, which documents must be prepared, whether a TCB filing is required, and how the product may be labeled and marketed.
APEX CS practical takeaway: Confirm the product-specific regulatory pathway before production, testing, labeling, or shipment. Requirements vary by device design, intended use, claims, market channel, and final configuration.