Learn about FCC ID requirements
Overview
An FCC ID is a unique identifier assigned to a radiofrequency device certified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It identifies the product’s FCC certification record and is different from other product identifiers, such as a model number, serial number, UPC, or IMEI.
Where can I find my product’s FCC ID?
The FCC ID may appear:
- On a label attached to the product
- On the product packaging
- In the user manual
- In the device’s regulatory or legal settings
- In documentation provided by the manufacturer
- On the manufacturer’s website
Look for the words “FCC ID” followed by a combination of letters, numbers, and sometimes hyphens.
Which products require an FCC ID?
Products that intentionally transmit radio signals like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or other wireless technologies, commonly require FCC certification and an FCC ID. Examples include:
- Mobile phones
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Routers
- Drones
- Bluetooth devices
- Wireless cameras
- Smartwatches
- Two-way radios
- Remote controlled toys
A product’s category isn’t the only factor that determines if an FCC ID is required. If you're not sure whether your product needs an FCC ID, check with the product’s manufacturer or supplier. You can also use the FCC ID Search Tool.
How to add FCC IDs to your listings
To help you provide this information, we’ve added a structured FCC ID field for applicable listings. When creating or revising a listing, add the item’s FCC ID in this field.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when listing:
- Make sure the FCC ID you provide applies to the exact product and model you’re listing.
- Don’t use an FCC ID from a similar product or model.
Depending on the product and listing, you may be unable to create, revise, relist, or publish the listing until you add the required information. Listings missing this information may be hidden from buyers in the US.
FAQs
How do I know whether my product requires an FCC ID?
Check the product label, regulatory settings, user manual, packaging, or documentation provided by the manufacturer or supplier.
If you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer or supplier and ask whether the exact product is FCC certified for sale in the US and which FCC ID applies to it. You can also use the FCC ID Search Tool.
When we identify that your listing may need an FCC ID, we’ll prompt you to provide one.
What should I do if the FCC ID isn’t visible on the product?
Some products display their FCC ID electronically. Check the device’s settings under sections such as Legal, Regulatory, About, or Certifications.
Some products may also contain a separately certified wireless module, in which case you may see “Contains FCC ID” followed by an FCC ID.
If you still can’t find the applicable FCC ID, contact the manufacturer or supplier, or refer to the FCC’s Search Tool.
Can I enter the model number, serial number, UPC, or IMEI instead of the FCC ID?
No. These identifiers serve different purposes and can’t be used in place of an FCC ID.
Only enter the identifier specifically labeled FCC ID or confirmed by the manufacturer as the applicable FCC ID for your product.
How can I check whether an FCC ID is valid?
You can search for an FCC ID using the FCC’s online Equipment Authorization System.
Finding the FCC ID in the database confirms that the ID exists, but you should also make sure that it applies to the product you’re listing.
Don’t use an FCC ID simply because it belongs to a similar product or another product from the same manufacturer.
What should I do if the FCC database doesn’t return a result?
First, make sure you entered the complete FCC ID correctly.
If you still can’t find the FCC ID, contact the manufacturer or supplier and ask for the product’s FCC equipment authorization information.
Can I use the same FCC ID for similar products or variations?
Only if the same FCC certification applies to those products.
Products that look similar may contain different transmitters, antennas, wireless modules, components, or regional configurations. These differences can affect the applicable FCC ID.
Don’t assume that one FCC ID applies to an entire brand, product family, or model series.
What should I do if the product has more than one FCC ID?
If the product you are listing has more than one FCC ID, enter the FCC ID identified by the manufacturer for the finished product. Refer to the product labeling or manufacturer documentation to determine the applicable FCC ID. You can use the FCC Equipment Authorization database to verify the FCC ID.
What does “Contains FCC ID” mean?
This generally means the product contains a separately certified wireless module.
If your product displays “Contains FCC ID”, use the FCC information provided by the manufacturer for that product.
Do I need to upload an FCC certificate or test report?
Generally, you’ll be asked to provide the applicable FCC ID rather than upload an FCC certificate or test report.
However, we may request additional supporting information if it’s needed to review a listing or investigate a product compliance concern.
Do these requirements apply if I’m located outside the US?
Yes. FCC requirements apply to covered products marketed or imported into the US, regardless of where the seller or item is located.
If you offer an impacted product to US buyers, we may ask you to provide its FCC ID.
What happens if I provide an FCC ID that belongs to another product?
The FCC ID you provide should apply to the product you’re listing.
Don’t use an FCC ID from a different model, product version, regional variation, or another seller’s listing.
What should I do if the product’s manufacturer or supplier can’t provide an FCC ID?
Ask the manufacturer or supplier to confirm whether the exact product requires an FCC ID and, if so, to provide the applicable FCC ID.
You can also check the product itself, its regulatory settings, user manual, packaging, and manufacturer documentation.
If you can't confirm the appropriate FCC information for your specific product, you may be unable to sell that product to buyers located in the US.
What should I do if I’m the manufacturer?
If you manufacture the product, you’re responsible for determining which FCC requirements apply before marketing or importing the product into the US.
If your product requires FCC certification, you should complete the applicable FCC equipment authorization process and obtain an FCC ID before offering the product for sale.
You may need to work with an FCC-recognized testing laboratory or other qualified product compliance provider.
Who is responsible for making sure the FCC information is accurate?
You’re responsible for accurately describing your product and making sure the FCC information you provide applies to the item you’re listing.
We may check the FCC ID against information available from the FCC, but you’re still responsible for making sure the information you provide is complete and accurate.
Can a product be restricted even if it has an FCC ID?
Yes. Having an FCC ID doesn’t automatically mean that a product is eligible for sale.
For example, a product may still be restricted if:
- The FCC ID belongs to a different product
- The product has been modified from its authorized configuration
- Its FCC authorization has been revoked or limited
- The product is subject to another FCC restriction
- The product is prohibited under another law or eBay policy
How does the FCC Covered List affect my listings?
The FCC maintains a Covered List of certain communications equipment and services that have been determined to present national security or public safety risks.
Certain products associated with the Covered List may be prohibited or restricted from FCC authorization, importation, or marketing in the US.
Having an FCC ID doesn’t necessarily mean that a product remains eligible for sale if the FCC has subsequently restricted or prohibited the equipment.
If you’re unsure whether your product is affected, check the current FCC Covered List or contact the manufacturer or supplier.