New Requirements for FCC-Recognized Test Laboratories
On October 30, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released FCC 26-73, introducing new requirements for testing laboratories participating in the U.S. equipment authorization program.
Under the new framework, FCC recognition will be limited to testing laboratories located in the United States or in Reciprocal Economies. A Reciprocal Economy is an economy covered by a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) or a comparable government-to-government reciprocity agreement with the United States.
The requirements also apply to Telecommunications Certification Bodies (TCBs) and laboratory accreditation bodies. Recognition of laboratories in non-reciprocal economies may continue during the transition period but will end no later than December 1, 2028.
Applications received from December 1, 2028, must rely on testing and certification that comply with the new requirements. Equipment authorizations granted before that date remain valid unless separately set aside or revoked.