The lead time for RF certification in Thailand varies depending on the product class. The certification pathway you choose will determine the validity period of the certificate.
Therefore, selecting the appropriate pathway will determine whether your product can be launched according to the estimated schedule. Choosing a pathway with a process that does not align with your estimates will result in additional costs for longer product storage.
In this article, Narmadi Company will cover everything you need to know about the lead time for RF certification in Thailand. You can also watch the full video to learn the requirements in detail.
Two Pathways, Two Different Timelines
Before learning about the lead time for RF certification in Thailand, which is categorized by class, you should know that two different pathways will also determine the duration of the process.
In Thailand, the most recommended pathway is the paperwork or document evaluation pathway. By choosing this pathway, you’ll complete the process more quickly, at a lower cost, and without having to submit samples for testing.
On the other hand, local testing is not the recommended route. In fact, many applicants avoid this option because the process takes longer and is significantly more expensive.
Moreover, Thailand currently does not accept online applications. Local testing only adds to the logistics costs for the entire process.
When Local Testing is Required?
Local testing is required if you have not yet obtained a test report from an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited international laboratory. In this case, you will need to have the testing performed.
The process does not necessarily have to be conducted in Thailand. It can be performed at an overseas laboratory recognized by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
This is why Narmadi Company recommends using an accredited international laboratory so that we can undergo a document evaluation instead.
Impact on the lead time
If you do not yet have a test report and need to conduct testing (either locally or at an international lab as an alternative), the lead time will be significantly longer. This is because testing takes time, depending on the type of product and the lab’s schedule.
Testing will add weeks to the application process. This additional time is on top of the standard waiting period involved in the paperwork application for RF certification in Thailand.
Lead Time for RF Certification in Thailand
The lead time for RF certification in Thailand varies depending on the selected application class. As Narmadi Company know, there are three types of certification applications: Class A, Class B, and Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC).
Class A and Class B applications cover devices such as drones, satellite equipment, and mobile devices. The process for these types of applications takes approximately six weeks, starting from document submission through certificate issuance.
SDoC applications cover short-range devices such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, and NFC. The process for this type of application takes approximately two to four days, starting when the documents are received at the NBTC office.
Three Things That Extend The Timeline
Please note that the lead time for RF certification in Thailand will be as expected if no errors occur during the process. If any issues arise, the process may be delayed.
To avoid this, you need to know what can cause delays in the process.
- Incomplete or incorrect documents: A document that does not meet NBTC requirements is immediately rejected. You must correct it, resubmit it, and wait for another evaluation slot.
- Test reports from unqualified labs: Test reports from labs that are not ISO/IEC 17025-accredited and do not follow CE or FCC standards are rejected. You must conduct retesting, which means the lead time starts over.
- Expired company registration certificate: A certificate that is more than 90 days old at the time of submission will be rejected. You need to obtain a new certificate before applying.
Thoroughly preparing your documents will help you avoid these problems. Double-check all your documents before deciding to submit them to the NBTC office. It’s better to delay your application to ensure everything is in order than to have the process stall halfway through.
