CE Mark

The CE mark is a legally required conformity marking for certain product groups placed on the market in the European Economic Area (EEA). It indicates that the manufacturer has carried out a conformity assessment procedure and that the product meets the applicable EU requirements.

The CE mark is not a voluntary quality mark and not a conventional approval issued by an authority. It is a manufacturer’s declaration within the applicable EU legal framework.

Meaning of the CE Mark

With the CE mark, the manufacturer declares that the product complies with the applicable European requirements. Depending on the product, these may include requirements for safety, electromagnetic compatibility, radio spectrum use, health, or environmental protection.

For radio products, the Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU (RED) is usually the relevant legal framework. Further information on regulatory requirements is available on the page CE Requirements for Radio Products.

When is the CE Mark required?

The CE mark is required only for product groups that fall under relevant EU harmonization legislation. These include, for example, radio equipment, electrical equipment, machinery, medical devices, toys, and personal protective equipment.

Products that do not fall under CE-related EU legislation must not carry the CE mark.

Conformity Assessment, Technical Documentation, and EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

Before affixing the CE mark, the manufacturer must demonstrate that the product meets the applicable requirements. Depending on the product, this may include:

• identifying the relevant EU legislation and harmonized standards

• carrying out conformity assessment

• test reports and risk assessment

• technical documentation

• the EU Declaration of Conformity

The EU Declaration of Conformity is the manufacturer’s formal declaration that the product complies with the relevant EU legislation. It forms the basis for affixing the CE mark.

CE Marking for Radio Products

For radio products, the CE process typically covers requirements from the RED, EMC, electrical safety, and radio spectrum use. Manufacturers should identify early which standards, test reports, and documentation obligations are relevant for their product.

→ CE marking support for radio products