FCC Issues Final Rule to Enhance Integrity and Security of Certification Bodies and Test Laboratories

Release Date: August 07, 2025                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Document No.: Newsletter_200508002

Final Rule: “Promoting the Integrity and Security of Telecommunications Certification Bodies, Measurement Facilities, and the Equipment Authorization Program”

Release Date: August 7, 2025

Effective Date: September 8, 2025

Docket Number: ET Docket No. 24–136; FCC 25–27; FR ID 305703

I. Background and Key Provisions

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted a final rule aimed at strengthening the integrity and national security of its equipment authorization program.

The new rule requires all FCC-recognized Telecommunication Certification Bodies (TCBs), test laboratories, and laboratory accreditation bodies to:

·         Submit a written certification confirming they are not owned by, controlled by, or under the direction of a prohibited entity;

·         Disclose all equity or voting interests of 5% or greater held by any party.

The FCC will deny or revoke recognition of any entity that:

·         Fails to provide such certifications;

·         Provides false or inaccurate ownership or control information;

·         Is found to be owned by or under the control of a prohibited entity, especially if said entity holds 10% or more equity or voting rights.

These disqualified entities will be barred from participating in any part of the FCC’s equipment authorization program, including both the Certification and Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) processes.

II. Revisions Related to Test Laboratories

The FCC has added and amended several sections specifically impacting the recognition and operation of test labs:

1. New §2.951 – Recognition of Measurement Facilities

FCC-recognized accrediting bodies (such as A2LA) must submit formal recognition requests for test labs. Required information includes:

·         Lab name, address, contact details, FRN, designation number;

·         Accrediting body name and scope, expiration date of accreditation;

·         Whether the lab operates on a contractual basis;

·         (For non-U.S. labs) the applicable Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA);

·         Any other information requested by the FCC.

2. Equity Disclosure and Prohibition Criteria

·         Labs must disclose any party holding 5% or greater equity or voting interest;

·         The FCC will not recognize any lab in which a prohibited entity holds 10% or more;

·         False, inaccurate, or incomplete submissions may lead to withdrawal of recognition.

3. Withdrawal Procedures

Labs found in violation will receive written notification and be given 30 days to respond. After this period, the FCC may officially revoke recognition.

III. Recommendations for Test Laboratories

To maintain compliance and recognition status, test labs are encouraged to:

1.    Conduct internal ownership and control audits to identify any prohibited affiliations;

2.    Prepare written certifications and equity disclosures in accordance with FCC requirements;

3.    Coordinate closely with accrediting bodies on recognition processes;

4.    Monitor the Federal Register for updates on effective dates for deferred rule sections.

Should you have any question, please feel free to contact us:

Email: service@mrt-cert.com