FCC & ISED Regulatory Updates – December 2025
Dear Clients and Community,
This month’s update places special attention on International Approvals (IA), as more clients prepare for 2026 global product launches. We’re also sharing several important FCC developments — including Test Firm List extensions, national-security–related EA updates, and new KDB guidance for Sub-THz devices.
Throughout 2025, the FCC has continued to increase oversight of laboratories participating in the Equipment Authorization (EA) program, and several of these changes may affect upcoming filings.
You’ll find summaries of each update below, along with links to additional information.
In This Issue
- International Approvals (IA) – Global Market Access Support
- FCC Test Firm List Updates
- FCC Notice: Protecting Against National Security Threats
- FCC KDB 800303: Sub-THz Measurement Guidance
- FCC KDB 986446: National Security & Covered Equipment Guidance
International Approvals (IA) – Global Market Access
As companies finalize their 2026 product launch plans, many overlook one critical step: International type approvals.
Our IA Team helps you navigate mandatory requirements for wireless, RF, and telecom products across multiple global markets — without the headaches, delays, or repeated testing.
Start the new year with a clean slate:
- Confirm required approvals
- Validate country-specific documentation
- Understand timelines
- Avoid launch-blocking surprises
If you require international approvals, talk to ACB’s International Approvals Team. Let us know your target countries, and our IA specialist will follow up.
Contact us IAservice@acbcert.com
Your global launch partner for 2026.
FCC Test Firm List Updates
FCC 认证测试实验室名单已更新
The FCC Test Firm List on the Equipment Authorization website has been updated. A group of 76 laboratories has had its expiration dates extended until December 31, 2025. This appears intended to accommodate expirations that occurred during the U.S. Government shutdown and may reflect communications between the TCB Council and the FCC.
https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-25-943A1.pdf
FCC: Protecting Against National Security Threats
通过设备授权计划防范通信供应链面临的安全威胁
Equipment Authorization Program Update
The Commission has released documentation titled:
Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain through the Equipment Authorization Program.
Key points:
- Rules prohibiting authorization of covered equipment now explicitly apply to modular transmitters.
- Devices containing modular transmitters considered “covered equipment” may not be authorized.
- Procedures are introduced to limit previously granted authorizations of covered equipment (restrict importation and marketing, but not continued use).
- Clarifications provided for:
- The meaning of “produced by”
- Restrictions on modifications or permissive changes to covered equipment
These rules become effective December 26, 2025.
FCC KDB 800303: Sub-THz Measurement Guidance
近期 FCC KDB更新
Sub-THz Emission Measurement Guidance
The FCC has published KDB guidance for devices operating above 95 GHz, referencing:
800303 D01 Sub-THz Emission Measurement Guidance v01.
This attachment provides measurement procedures for Sub-THz emissions, applicable to manufacturers and test laboratories working with extremely high-frequency devices.
See attachment 800303 D01 Sub-THz Emission Measurement Guidance v01
FCC KDB Update 986446: National Security & Covered Equipment Guidance
Effective December 15, 2025, TCBs must begin entering the U.S. Agent for Service of Process contact information into the “Non-Technical Contact” address field on each Form 731 filing, in accordance with KDB 986446.
The FCC has also published updated guidance related to its effort to protect the communications supply chain from national security threats, including changes in how “covered equipment” is handled within the equipment authorization program.
Below is the most recent KDB activity released by the FCC for your reference:
Recent KDB Publications: Publication Number: 986446
Rule Parts: 2.903, 2.911(d)
Publication Date: December 8, 2025
Keywords: FCC 22-84, Covered Equipment, National Security Threats, Supply Chain, Covered List, Telecommunications Equipment, Video Surveillance Equipment
Categories:
- Covered Equipment
- Covered Equipment – 2.903 and 2.911(d) Requirements
Question:
The FCC recently adopted FCC 22-84, Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain through the Equipment Authorization Program.
How does this affect the FCC equipment authorization process?
FCC 22-84:
https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-amends-equipment-authorization-program
Answer:
The FCC has released updated guidance outlining how FCC 22-84 applies to equipment authorization applications involving covered equipment.
A new revision, 986446 D01 Covered Equipment Guidance v04, was issued on December 8, 2025, replacing v03.
Updates include expanded clarification on:
- Item B(1)(b): Agent for Service of Process Requirements
- Additional expectations for filings involving covered equipment
- Documentation and certification impacts for applicants, agents, and TCBs
Attachment:
986446 D01 Covered Equipment Guidance v04
ACB Takeaway: These updates reinforce the FCC’s increasing focus on supply chain security.
If your products include components that could fall under “covered equipment” classifications — or if you have upcoming filings requiring U.S. agent identification — ACB can help you navigate these new expectations and ensure your applications align with the latest FCC requirements. Contact Us
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Contact Us: Certification Expertise & Global Compliance Support
Since 1999, American Certification Body (ACB) has delivered independent wireless certification trusted worldwide.
We maintain strict operational independence and adhere to FCC-recognized accreditation standards.
Whether you need support with FCC certification, ISED compliance, or International Approvals, our team is ready to help.
IA inquiries: IAservice@acbcert.com
Call Us: 703-847-4700
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Missed last month?
Catch up on the November 2025 FCC and ISED updates
This newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Always consult the official FCC and ISED publications for complete and current regulatory requirements.
