FCC phases out recognition of foreign test labs without MRA

On 30 April 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to launch a rulemaking proposing to prohibit the recognition of electronic device test labs and certification bodies in countries without reciprocity agreements with the United States.

• Applies to electronic device test labs and certification bodies in foreign countries without reciprocity agreements with the United States

• Labs in countries lacking Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) would be phased out over a two-year period following the adoption of final rules

• Testing facilities without reciprocal treaties would lose their authority to certify devices for sale and use in the U.S. market

The proposed action is intended to restore and strengthen the framework that existed prior to 2015, with the aim of bolstering national security and ensuring the integrity of the equipment authorization process.

Source: FCC proposal on non-reciprocal test labs (PDF)

Further information:

• https://ib-lenhardt.com/kb/fcc-requirements

• https://ib-lenhardt.com/product-certification/fcc-marking