MIC Requirements – Overview
Japan applies one of the most structured approval systems for radio and telecom equipment worldwide. MIC (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications) certification ensures that devices comply with national spectrum regulations and technical specifications for wireless communication. A clear understanding of these requirements helps manufacturers streamline certification and avoid costly delays.
Note: Electrical safety requirements are regulated separately under the PSE Mark. General EMC is not governed by a single law in Japan; for radio devices, EMC aspects are covered within MIC standards, while non-radio equipment may follow voluntary schemes such as VCCI.
Key Takeaways
MIC certification is mandatory for all wireless and telecom products in Japan.
Device categories include Specified Radio Equipment (SRE), Special Specified Radio Equipment (SSRE), High-Frequency Devices (HFD), and Extremely Low-Power (ELP).
Testing must be performed by an accredited laboratory (as required by RCB practice); RCBs review and validate results but do not perform the testing themselves.
Certified products must carry the Giteki mark with the assigned certification number. Other labels such as HFD and ELP apply depending on the device category.
Certificates remain valid indefinitely, but market surveillance is ongoing and any product modification may require re-certification.
Need Support? Comprehensive guidance and local representation for MIC approvals, including testing coordination, documentation, and labeling. → MIC Certification Services
The following sections explain the regulatory structure, scope of application, technical standards, and certification process in detail.
Regulatory Framework
Japan's wireless and telecom regulations are administered by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC). The regulatory landscape primarily consists of the Radio Law and the Telecommunications Business Law. Clearly understanding the roles and obligations of each entity significantly streamlines the MIC certification process.
Actor | Details |
---|---|
MIC1 (Regulator) |
Role: National regulator for radio and telecommunications Key Responsibilities: Issues certification numbers; maintains public device database; conducts market surveillance, recalls, and inspections; publishes regulations and notices. |
Registered Certification Bodies (RCBs) |
Role: Third-party conformity assessment organizations Key Responsibilities: Evaluate test data; perform conformity assessment; issue certificates; file results to MIC1. |
Testing Laboratories |
Role: Accredited testing facilities Key Responsibilities: Perform accredited testing; provide ISO/IEC 170252 reports; foreign reports may be accepted at RCB discretion (incl. under MRA3); ELP4 mark uses designated JP labs. |
Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) |
Role: Foreign conformity assessment organizations (under MRA3) Key Responsibilities: Provide test data and assessments under MRA3 agreements; deliver conformity assessments that may be recognized by Japanese RCBs; operate within defined MRA3 scope limitations. |
Local Representative |
Role: Japan-based applicant/agent (category-dependent) Key Responsibilities: File SSRE4 declarations and HFD4 registrations; submit ELP4 mark; act as MIC1/RCB contact; not required for SRE4 if the foreign manufacturer holds the certificate. |
Actor | Role | Key Responsibilities |
---|---|---|
MIC1 (Regulator) | National regulator for radio and telecommunications | Issues certification numbers; maintains public device database; conducts market surveillance, recalls, and inspections; publishes regulations and notices. |
Registered Certification Bodies (RCBs) | Third-party conformity assessment organizations | Evaluate test data; perform conformity assessment; issue certificates; file results to MIC1. |
Testing Laboratories | Accredited testing facilities | Perform accredited testing; provide ISO/IEC 170252 reports; foreign reports may be accepted at RCB discretion (incl. under MRA3); ELP4 mark uses designated JP labs. |
Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) | Foreign conformity assessment organizations (under MRA3) | Provide test data and assessments under MRA3 agreements; deliver conformity assessments that may be recognized by Japanese RCBs; operate within defined MRA3 scope limitations. |
Local Representative | Japan-based applicant/agent (category-dependent) | File SSRE4 declarations and HFD4 registrations; submit ELP4 mark; act as MIC1/RCB contact; not required for SRE4 if the foreign manufacturer holds the certificate. |
Notes:
1 MIC: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan's national telecommunications regulator. Approval numbers are issued by MIC only in the case of direct MIC approvals; for most device categories, approval numbers are granted by RCBs.
2 ISO/IEC 17025: International standard for testing and calibration laboratory competence.
3 MRA: Mutual Recognition Agreement between Japan and partner countries (US, EU) for cross-recognition of test data. Foreign test reports are accepted only if explicitly recognized under MRA and validated by an RCB.
4 SRE/SSRE/HFD/ELP: Device categories under Radio Law - Specified Radio Equipment, Special Specified Radio Equipment, High-Frequency Devices, Extremely Low Power devices.
This regulatory structure establishes the foundation for determining device categories, applicable standards, and certification requirements.
Scope and Applicability
MIC regulations classify devices into distinct categories. The table below provides a quick overview. For details, including examples and certification requirements, see the category descriptions in the following sections.
Quick Overview
Category | Details |
---|---|
SRE # |
Scope: Specified Radio Equipment Typical Devices: Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, smartphones |
SSRE # |
Scope: Special Specified Radio Equipment Typical Devices: Low-power short-range devices (e.g., BLE trackers) |
HFD # |
Scope: High-Frequency Devices (>10 kHz) Typical Devices: Microwave ovens, RF welders, induction cookers |
ELP # |
Scope: Extremely Low-Power Devices Typical Devices: Key fobs, toys, minimal RFID tags |
Telecom Terminal # |
Scope: Public network interface devices Typical Devices: DSL modems, telephones, LTE gateways |
Exemptions # |
Scope: Receivers & passive components Typical Devices: GPS modules, antennas, radio scanners |
Category | Scope | Typical Devices (examples) |
---|---|---|
SRE # | Specified Radio Equipment | Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, smartphones |
SSRE # | Special Specified Radio Equipment | Low-power short-range devices (e.g., BLE trackers) |
HFD # | High-Frequency Devices (>10 kHz) | Microwave ovens, RF welders, induction cookers |
ELP # | Extremely Low-Power Devices | Key fobs, toys, minimal RFID tags |
Telecom Terminal # | Public network interface devices | DSL modems, telephones, LTE gateways |
Exemptions # | Receivers & passive components | GPS modules, antennas, radio scanners |
Specified Radio Equipment (SRE)
Scope: Devices intentionally transmitting RF signals for communication purposes.
Examples: Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth speakers, smartphones, RFID readers, wireless microphones, drones.
Certification Requirements: Mandatory testing and third-party certification by a Registered Certification Body (RCB).
See also Marking → Giteki Mark (SRE)
Special Specified Radio Equipment (SSRE)
Scope: Subset of SRE allowing simplified certification due to lower power and reduced risk.
Examples: Low-power short-range devices such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) trackers.
Certification Requirements: SSRE devices follow a simplified approval route. Manufacturers must register the device with MIC through a local representative in Japan. Testing and conformity assessment requirements are reduced compared to SRE, but compliance with the technical standards remains mandatory.
See also Marking → Giteki Mark (SSRE)
High-Frequency Devices (HFD)
Scope: Non-communication devices emitting RF energy for industrial, scientific, or medical use.
Examples: Microwave ovens, RF welding machines, induction cookers, industrial heating systems.
Certification Requirements: Compliance testing and MIC registration through a local representative.
See also Marking → HFD Mark
Extremely Low-Power (ELP) Devices
Scope: Devices transmitting RF signals below Radio Law-defined field-strength thresholds.
Examples: Key fobs, short-range toys, minimal-power RFID tags.
Certification Requirements: ELPs are exempt from mandatory MIC certification. They must comply with interference limits under the Radio Law, and manufacturers may optionally use the voluntary ELP Mark for better market transparency and compliance assurance. (For ELP limits by frequency, see Marking → ELP.)
Telecom Terminal Equipment
Scope: Devices interfacing directly with public telecommunications networks.
Examples: DSL modems, wired and wireless telephones, cellular routers, LTE gateways.
Certification Requirements: Devices must obtain mandatory certification under the Telecommunications Business Law (TBL). Where applicable, this comes in addition to MIC certification under the Radio Law.
See also Marking → Giteki Mark (Telecom)
Exemptions & Borderline Cases
Scope: Devices without intentional transmission or purely passive components.
Examples: GPS receivers, radio scanners, antennas, passive RFID tags.
Certification Requirements: Exempt from MIC certification. Borderline cases should be reviewed with an RCB.
Once the device category is defined, the next step is to determine the applicable technical standards. These are set out in the Radio Law, while ARIB Standards translate the legal requirements into practical technical conditions and test methods used by RCBs and laboratories for certification.
Applicable Technical Standards
All devices subject to MIC certification must comply with the Radio Law. In practice, conformity is demonstrated through ARIB standards, which translate legal requirements into practical test methods. The applicable standard depends on frequency band, technology, and application. The table below shows common ARIB standards as orientation only – the exact requirements must always be confirmed with the responsible RCB.
Standard | Details |
---|---|
Automotive / Vehicle Technologies | |
ARIB STD-T48 |
Frequency/Technology: 60–61 GHz, 76–77 GHz Automotive Radar (low-power) Typical Devices: Basic collision warning systems, short-range detection radar |
ARIB STD-T75 |
Frequency/Technology: 5.76–5.92 GHz Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) (ITS/EFC) Typical Devices: On-Board Units (OBUs), Roadside Units (RSUs), tolling systems |
ARIB STD-T111 |
Frequency/Technology: 77–81 GHz High-Resolution Automotive Radar Typical Devices: Advanced driver assistance systems, pedestrian/cyclist detection radar |
Wi-Fi / ISM Technologies | |
ARIB STD-T66 |
Frequency/Technology: 2.4 GHz ISM Typical Devices: Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi modules |
ARIB STD-T71 |
Frequency/Technology: 5 GHz Wi-Fi (U-NII bands; DFS required in 5.3/5.6 GHz; 5.2/5.3 GHz indoor only) Typical Devices: IEEE 802.11a/n/ac/ax devices |
IoT / RFID / Smart Metering | |
ARIB STD-T107 |
Frequency/Technology: 920 MHz RFID Typical Devices: RFID tags for logistics and tracking |
ARIB STD-T108 |
Frequency/Technology: 920 MHz Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) / Smart Metering Typical Devices: Sigfox, LoRa, smart meters |
Cellular / Mobile Communications | |
ARIB STD-T104 |
Frequency/Technology: LTE-Advanced (IMT bands 700 MHz–2 GHz) Typical Devices: User equipment (UE) and base stations |
Specialized Technologies | |
RCR STD-31 (ARIB) |
Frequency/Technology: Low-power voice radios (land mobile; antenna power ≤ 1 mW, conducted) Typical Devices: Push-to-talk handsets, small in-plant voice systems |
ARIB STD-T91 |
Frequency/Technology: Ultra-Wideband (UWB) (3.4–4.8 GHz, 7.25–10.25 GHz; indoor use) Typical Devices: Sensing systems, indoor positioning, high-speed data links |
Standard | Frequency / Technology | Typical Devices |
---|---|---|
Automotive / Vehicle Technologies | ||
ARIB STD-T48 | 60–61 GHz, 76–77 GHz Automotive Radar (low-power) | Basic collision warning systems, short-range detection radar |
ARIB STD-T75 | 5.76–5.92 GHz Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) (ITS/EFC) | On-Board Units (OBUs), Roadside Units (RSUs), tolling systems |
ARIB STD-T111 | 77–81 GHz High-Resolution Automotive Radar | Advanced driver assistance systems, pedestrian/cyclist detection radar |
Wi-Fi / ISM Technologies | ||
ARIB STD-T66 | 2.4 GHz ISM | Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi modules |
ARIB STD-T71 | 5 GHz Wi-Fi (U-NII bands; DFS required in 5.3/5.6 GHz; 5.2/5.3 GHz indoor only) | IEEE 802.11a/n/ac/ax devices |
IoT / RFID / Smart Metering | ||
ARIB STD-T107 | 920 MHz RFID | RFID tags for logistics and tracking |
ARIB STD-T108 | 920 MHz Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) / Smart Metering | Sigfox, LoRa, smart meters |
Cellular / Mobile Communications | ||
ARIB STD-T104 | LTE-Advanced (IMT bands 700 MHz–2 GHz) | User equipment (UE) and base stations |
Specialized Technologies | ||
RCR STD-31 (ARIB) | Low-power voice radios (land mobile; antenna power ≤ 1 mW, conducted) | Push-to-talk handsets, small in-plant voice systems |
ARIB STD-T91 | Ultra-Wideband (UWB) (3.4–4.8 GHz, 7.25–10.25 GHz; indoor use) | Sensing systems, indoor positioning, high-speed data links |
Additional Standards: Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz) and other emerging technologies are regulated under newer ARIB documentation not listed above. Public 5G NR systems in Japan are specified separately (e.g., ARIB STD-T120 – IMT systems based on 3GPP specifications).
Compliance with the relevant ARIB standard is required to demonstrate conformity with the Radio Law. After identifying the applicable standard, the device must undergo testing and certification via a Registered Certification Body (RCB) to obtain MIC approval.
MIC Certification Process
The MIC certification process follows a clearly defined sequence, from preparation and testing to certification and post-approval compliance. Understanding each step helps manufacturers avoid delays and achieve smooth market access.
Process Overview
The certification flow is structured in five stages as shown below.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparation (Standards & Documentation)
Identify applicable device category and ARIB technical standards.
Collect required documentation (schematics, block diagrams, bill of materials, manuals).
Define testing strategy: via accredited external labs recognized by MIC/RCBs (ISO/IEC 17025), or in‑house if your lab is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited.
2. Testing & Report Compilation
Conduct compliance tests including RF performance and, where applicable, EMC as defined under the Radio Law or TBL.
Compile comprehensive test reports documenting compliance with Japan’s technical standards.
3. Submission & Evaluation
Submit reports and documentation to a Registered Certification Body (RCB) or directly to MIC (depending on device category).
Where required, a Japan-based local representative must file the submission.
Note: RCBs are independent bodies designated by MIC, not authorities.
4. Certification & Numbering
Receive the certification and approval number from the RCB (for SRE/SSRE) or MIC (for direct approvals).
Ensure device information is accurately registered in the MIC public database.
5. Marking & Ongoing Compliance
Affix the required marking: Giteki mark (SRE/SSRE, Telecom) or other applicable labels (HFD, ELP).
Maintain compliance with ongoing obligations: market-surveillance readiness, proper documentation, and no unauthorized modifications.
Certification is followed by labeling and continuous compliance obligations in order to maintain market approval in Japan.
Required Documents
Proper preparation and accurate compilation of required documentation are critical to streamline the MIC certification process. Below is a structured overview of essential documentation categorized by type:
Document Type | Details |
---|---|
Technical Documentation |
Purpose: Detailed technical specifications and design information Key Components: Circuit schematics, block diagrams, detailed product description, bill of materials (BOM1), user manual, internal/external device photographs. |
Testing Documentation |
Purpose: Evidence of compliance testing Key Components: Test reports (RF2, EMC3, SAR4 if applicable), test setup photographs, antenna specifications, firmware configuration details. |
Application Documents |
Purpose: Required submission forms Key Components: Completed application form for RCB5 approvals. For IFERW6, application forms are submitted directly to MIC7. |
Declarations & Supporting Documents |
Purpose: Legal declarations and quality certifications Key Components: ISO 9001 / QMS8 declaration, Power of Attorney (if applicable), local representative details (if required). For SSRE9, a simplified declaration procedure with MIC7 registration is required. |
Labeling Documentation |
Purpose: Compliance with product marking rules Key Components: Label artwork showing the Giteki mark and certification number (for SRE/SSRE9 and Telecom Terminal Equipment), placement diagram detailing exact marking location on the device. For HFD and ELP9, other label schemes apply. For IFERW6 approvals, labeling is based on the MIC7 approval number scheme (without Giteki symbol). |
Document Type | Description / Purpose | Key Components |
---|---|---|
Technical Documentation | Detailed technical specifications and design information | Circuit schematics, block diagrams, detailed product description, bill of materials (BOM1), user manual, internal/external device photographs. |
Testing Documentation | Evidence of compliance testing | Test reports (RF2, EMC3, SAR4 if applicable), test setup photographs, antenna specifications, firmware configuration details. |
Application Documents | Required submission forms | Completed application form for RCB5 approvals. For IFERW6, application forms are submitted directly to MIC7. |
Declarations & Supporting Documents | Legal declarations and quality certifications | ISO 9001 / QMS8 declaration, Power of Attorney (if applicable), local representative details (if required). For SSRE9, a simplified declaration procedure with MIC7 registration is required. |
Labeling Documentation | Compliance with product marking rules | Label artwork showing the Giteki mark and certification number (for SRE/SSRE9 and Telecom Terminal Equipment), placement diagram detailing exact marking location on the device. For HFD and ELP9, other label schemes apply. For IFERW6 approvals, labeling is based on the MIC7 approval number scheme (without Giteki symbol). |
Notes:
1 BOM: Bill of Materials - detailed inventory of parts, components, and materials required to manufacture a product.
2 RF: Radio Frequency - electromagnetic radiation in the frequency range from around 20 kHz to 300 GHz.
3 EMC: Electromagnetic Compatibility - the ability of electronic equipment to function properly in its electromagnetic environment.
4 SAR: Specific Absorption Rate - measure of energy absorbed by the human body when exposed to radio frequency electromagnetic field. SAR testing may be required in Japan for certain devices operating within 20 cm of the human body (e.g. mobile phones), based on ARIB STD-T56.
5 RCB: Registered Certification Body - organizations authorized by MIC to conduct conformity assessments and issue certifications.
6 IFERW: Individual MIC Approval - direct approval route by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications for certain device categories.
7 MIC: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications - Japan's national telecommunications regulator.
8 QMS: Quality Management System - systematic approach to quality management and continuous improvement.
9 SRE/SSRE/HFD/ELP: Device categories under Radio Law - Specified Radio Equipment, Special Specified Radio Equipment, High-Frequency Devices, Extremely Low Power devices.
Note: Complete and accurate documentation significantly reduces the risk of delays or additional queries from RCBs or MIC, thereby accelerating the overall approval process.
Marking Requirements by Equipment Category
Correct labeling is essential to maintain MIC approval and lawful market presence in Japan. The marking requirements vary depending on the device category and must follow MIC regulations precisely. Improper or missing marking can result in import rejection, fines, or withdrawal from the market.
Applicable Marking Requirements (Overview)
Mark | Details |
---|---|
Giteki # |
Scope: Specified Radio Equipment (SRE/SSRE) & Telecom Terminal Equipment Typical Devices: Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, LTE/5G equipment, telephones Requirement: Mandatory |
HFD # |
Scope: High-Frequency Devices > 10 kHz Typical Devices: Microwave ovens, RF welders, induction cookers, industrial RF heaters Requirement: Mandatory |
ELP # |
Scope: Extremely Low-Power Devices under Radio Law field-strength limits Typical Devices: Key fobs, toys, minimal-power RFID tags Requirement: Voluntary |
Mark | Scope | Typical Devices | Mandatory / Voluntary |
---|---|---|---|
Giteki # | Specified Radio Equipment (SRE/SSRE) & Telecom Terminal Equipment | Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, LTE/5G equipment, telephones | Mandatory |
HFD # | High-Frequency Devices > 10 kHz | Microwave ovens, RF welders, induction cookers, industrial RF heaters | Mandatory |
ELP # | Extremely Low-Power Devices under Radio Law field-strength limits | Key fobs, toys, minimal-power RFID tags | Voluntary |
Note: For IFERW (Individual MIC Approval), labeling follows the MIC approval number scheme and does not use a mark such as Giteki, HFD, or ELP.
Labeling Obligation
1. Giteki Mark – Specified Radio Equipment (SRE) & Telecom Terminal Equipment
Applies to devices intentionally transmitting RF signals and those interfacing with public networks.
Must be permanently affixed, clearly legible, and directly associated with the certified product.
Includes the Giteki symbol with an "R" (Radio Equipment) or "T" (Telecom Terminal Equipment) identifier and a unique certification number (e.g., 001-XXXXXX).
For very small devices, the mark may appear in the user manual or as an electronic label (e-label).
E-labeling requires MIC approval and must be easily accessible to users (e.g., via device settings).


2. HFD Mark – High-Frequency Devices
Required for non-communication devices operating above 10 kHz.
Must be registered with the local MIC regional office by a Japanese entity.
Examples: Microwave ovens, RF welders, ultrasonic cleaners, induction cookers, NFC car door handles.
Even if exempt from registration, these devices must still meet all applicable legal limits.
Note: HFD registration is distinct from MIC type approval and applies to all high-frequency equipment, including certain consumer products, not only industrial systems.

3. ELP Mark – Extremely Low-Power Devices
Applies to devices operating below defined field strength thresholds as per Article 6-1-1 of the Enforcement Ordinance.
Limits by frequency range:
< 322 MHz: max. 500 µV/m
322 MHz–10 GHz: max. 35 µV/m
10–150 GHz: ≤ 3.5 × f(GHz) or 500 µV/m (whichever is lower)
≥ 150 GHz: fixed at 500 µV/m
These devices are exempt from mandatory certification but may carry the voluntary ELP mark to support market transparency and trust.
The ELP mark is voluntary and does not replace MIC certification where applicable (e.g., Giteki).

Combination of Marks
Note: Depending on functionality, a single device may require multiple marks simultaneously (e.g., an RFID reader with Wi-Fi capability may need both a Giteki mark and an HFD mark). Correct marking ensures lawful market presence and prevents customs rejection or fines.
Ongoing Compliance & Market Surveillance
After certification is granted, manufacturers must continue to comply with MIC requirements to maintain legal market access. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) enforces post-certification compliance through structured market surveillance and expects full manufacturer cooperation.
Market Surveillance by MIC
MIC conducts random post-market inspections and compliance audits.
Certified devices may be purchased and re-tested without prior notice.
Authorities can request documentation or technical justifications at any time.
Manufacturer Obligations
Maintain technical conformity: certified products must match the originally tested version.
Any change to hardware, firmware, or antenna configuration must be reviewed for re-certification.
Implement internal procedures for product change control and configuration tracking.
Archive all certification-related documentation during the full market lifecycle of the product.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
MIC may issue formal warnings, request corrective actions, or revoke certification.
Non-compliant products can be recalled or banned from distribution in Japan.
Transparent communication and timely cooperation with MIC are essential to maintain approval.
Ongoing compliance is not optional—it is a core component of MIC market access. Manufacturers must proactively manage product conformity to avoid disruptions and ensure long-term success in Japan.
Certificate Validity & Renewals
Unlike some international certification systems that require periodic renewal, MIC certifications issued under Japan’s Radio Law and Telecommunications Business Law do not expire as long as the certified product remains technically unchanged.
Validity Period
Indefinite validity: Certificates remain valid for the lifetime of the product unless technical modifications are introduced or regulatory standards change.
No routine renewal cycle: Japan does not impose a time-based re-certification process for unchanged devices.
Scope of validity: Certification applies strictly to the device configuration (including firmware version) that was tested and approved.
When Renewal or Re-Certification Is Required
Design modifications: Any change to antennas, transmitters, power output, or operational frequency bands.
Firmware updates: Modifications that affect RF behavior or device functionality relevant to compliance.
Changes in applicable standards: If MIC updates its technical requirements, affected products may need to be reassessed.
Manufacturers should implement robust change control procedures to ensure continued validity and proactively assess any modification that may require a compliance review or re-certification.
Product Changes & Recertification
Maintaining MIC approval requires that certified products remain identical to the originally tested configuration. Any modification—hardware or software—must be carefully evaluated for its impact on compliance.
Quick Reference – Typical Changes & Actions
Change Type | Typical Action Required |
---|---|
RF hardware (antenna, transmitter, shielding) | Re-testing; usually requires new certification |
Firmware or software affecting RF behavior | Re-testing; usually requires new certification if RF parameters change (power/bands/modulation) |
Functional enhancements (e.g., new wireless features) | New certification required |
Mechanical/structural modifications | Impact assessment; re-testing if RF is affected |
Change Type | Typical Action Required |
---|---|
RF hardware (antenna, transmitter, shielding) | Re-testing; usually requires new certification |
Firmware or software affecting RF behavior | Re-testing; usually requires new certification if RF parameters change (power/bands/modulation) |
Functional enhancements (e.g., new wireless features) | New certification required |
Mechanical/structural modifications | Impact assessment; re-testing if RF is affected |
What Constitutes a Significant Change?
RF Hardware Modifications: Changes to antenna type, layout, transmitter components, or RF shielding.
Firmware or Software Updates: Alterations that affect modulation scheme, output power, operating bands, or other RF parameters.
Functional Enhancements: Adding new wireless features (e.g., enabling a dormant Bluetooth or UWB module).
Mechanical Changes: Structural modifications that may affect RF emissions or device shielding.
What Actions Are Required?
Impact Assessment: Every change must be reviewed with a compliance engineer or the responsible RCB. Even small modifications must be documented to justify continued validity.
Re-Testing: If the change affects RF behavior or compliance parameters, testing must be performed in accordance with the Radio Law, typically demonstrated using the applicable ARIB standard methods.
Re-Certification / New Approval: For substantial modifications, a new certification process is required. In practice, this usually results in a new Giteki number being issued.
Best Practices
Implement a formal change management system covering technical, regulatory, and labeling impacts.
Keep detailed records of all post-certification modifications and corresponding compliance decisions.
Coordinate with the original RCB or a qualified lab before implementing changes to avoid invalidating certification.
FAQ – Practical Questions
Which products require MIC certification?
All wireless devices that intentionally transmit RF signals must be certified. This includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, RFID, UWB, and other radio technologies. Telecom terminal equipment also requires approval under the Telecommunications Business Law.
→ See: Scope & Applicability
Can foreign manufacturers obtain MIC certification directly?
Yes. MIC certification can be granted directly to foreign manufacturers. However, certain device categories (e.g., SSRE, HFD) may require a local representative in Japan for registration.
→ See: Regulatory Framework / Scope & Applicability
Are international test reports accepted?
Yes – testing must normally be performed at ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories and validated by a Registered Certification Body (RCB) in Japan. Under the Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA) with the EU and US, accredited international reports can be accepted if they meet Japanese standards.
Important: Since 2021, our subsidiary KL-Certification GmbH has been designated as an official RCB under Japan’s Radio Law and Telecommunication Business Law. This means we can directly validate international test reports from our own accredited laboratories and issue the necessary Japanese certificates – eliminating uncertainty and avoiding redundant testing in Japan.
→ See: Certification Process
Does the certification expire?
No. MIC certificates do not expire as long as the product remains technically unchanged. However, any significant modification (e.g., antenna, frequency, output power, firmware) requires re-assessment.
When is a local representative required?
A local representative is required for:
High-Frequency Devices (HFD)
Extremely Low-Power Devices (ELP) with voluntary registration
Special Specified Radio Equipment (SSRE)
Some telecom terminal equipment under the Telecommunications Business Law
→ See: Scope & Applicability / Regulatory Framework
What is the Giteki mark and how must it be applied?
The Giteki mark consists of the MIC-assigned certification number and must be visibly affixed to the device. For small devices, e-labeling or marking in the manual may be acceptable.
→ See: Marking Requirements by Equipment Category
What happens if I update the firmware after certification?
Firmware changes that affect RF behavior or device functionality relevant to compliance may require a re-evaluation or re-certification. It's critical to assess changes before deployment.
→ See: Ongoing Compliance & Market Surveillance / Certificate Validity & Renewals
What are the risks of non-compliance?
MIC conducts random market surveillance. If non-conformities are found, consequences may include:
Product recalls
Certification revocation
Fines or import restrictions
What is the difference between Type Certification and Batch Certification under MIC?
Under Japan’s Radio Law, two certification schemes exist:
Type Certification applies to mass-produced models. Once a sample is approved, all identical units may be marketed under the same certification number. The manufacturer is responsible for applying the Giteki mark.
Batch Certification applies to limited or custom-built products. Each unit or production lot must be tested by the RCB, which issues the approval number. The manufacturer (or importer) remains responsible for affixing the required mark to the devices.
Batch Certification is often used for prototypes and special orders. For standard product series, Type Certification is the preferred and more efficient route.
If I use a pre-certified radio module, do I still need MIC certification for my product?
Formally, yes. Under Japan’s Radio Law, the host product that integrates a radio module must obtain its own certification.
In certain cases, if the integration does not change the module’s RF characteristics, approval may be simplified and additional testing reduced. Whether this applies must be confirmed with the responsible RCB.
We help you clarify the exact requirements for your design and avoid unnecessary testing efforts.
→ See: Scope & Applicability
What does the [T] in the Giteki mark mean for telecom equipment?
The [T] in the Giteki mark indicates that the device complies with the Telecommunications Business Law (TBL) in addition to the Radio Law. It applies to telecom terminal equipment that connects to public networks, such as wired phones, DSL modems, and cellular routers.
Need Support?
Our experts provide full guidance for MIC certification in Japan – from testing coordination and documentation to Giteki marking and post-approval compliance.
Further Reading & Official Resources
Official MIC Resources
-
MIC (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications) Official Website (Japanese)
Available at: https://www.soumu.go.jp/
-
MIC Radio Equipment Type Approval Database
Available at: https://www.tele.soumu.go.jp/e/index.htm
-
ARIB Standards (Association of Radio Industries and Businesses)
Available at: https://www.arib.or.jp/english/std_tr/
Additional Resource
-
TAMSys by IB-Lenhardt AG – Type Approval Management System
Centralized compliance platform for certificate tracking, regulatory data, and Giteki number management. → TAMSys – Type Approval Management System
This is a curated selection of key sources. For full and up-to-date regulatory documentation, please refer to the official portals of the relevant authorities. All references were verified as of August 2025.