The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has published a final rule to enhance the integrity and security of its Equipment Authorization Program, effective June 15, 2026. The regulation introduces a fast-track priority review process for devices subject to Pre-Approval Guidance (PAG) when tested in Trusted Test Labs, defined as labs located in the United States or in economies with Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) or reciprocal trade agreements with the U.S.

The FCC now requires test labs and Telecommunication Certification Bodies (TCBs) to disclose the number and location of all employees involved in FCC-recognized testing and certification, including foreign-based staff, to improve transparency and assess impartiality. Post-market compliance controls are revised, with enhanced sampling, escalation, and transparency procedures, and stronger enforcement mechanisms are established to deter violations and fraudulent certifications.

A confidential reporting channel is created for industry participants to raise concerns about violations or national security threats. The FCC also directs the development of a consolidated, machine-readable list of prohibited entities to streamline applicant screening. Ownership reporting timelines for publicly traded companies are aligned with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requirements, reducing administrative burdens.

These measures aim to promote domestic testing, safeguard U.S. communications networks, and uphold the integrity of the equipment authorization process. The changes impact manufacturers, test labs, certification bodies, importers, and other key stakeholders in the telecommunications sector.

This regulation is classified as High Impact due to its broad and mandatory changes affecting equipment authorization, testing, certification, and compliance for a wide range of telecommunications and electronic devices.

Key reasons for high impact:

• Introduction of fast-track review for devices tested in Trusted Test Labs, incentivizing domestic and allied-country testing.
• Mandatory disclosure of employee location and number for test labs and TCBs, including foreign staff.
• Revised post-market compliance controls, stronger enforcement, and confidential reporting channels.
• Creation of a consolidated prohibited entities list for applicant screening.
• Alignment of ownership reporting timelines with SEC requirements for publicly traded companies.

Who is affected?

Manufacturers, test labs, certification bodies, importers, publicly traded companies, and other stakeholders in the U.S. and allied economies.

Conclusion:

The rule significantly alters operational, reporting, and compliance requirements, directly impacting product approval, certification, and market access for a broad range of devices.