When it comes to the world’s most mature markets, Japan is one of them. Japan is a highly mature and competitive market. This is due to high mobile penetration rates, the rapid rollout of 5G, and a tech-savvy population that drives steady demand.
Naturally, manufacturers, importers, and distributors are competing to market their telecommunications products there. However, before entering the market, these products require RF certification in Japan. This is a mandatory certification that every telecommunications product must have as a mark of safety and compliance with applicable regulations.
RF certification in Japan appears straightforward and well-organized. However, you still need to thoroughly understand the guidelines for marketing telecommunications products in this country to make it easier.
What is RF Certification in Japan?
RF certification in Japan is administered by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC). This authority is responsible for establishing certification regulations and overseeing certified products.
In product testing and certificate issuance, the MIC collaborates with Registered Certification Bodies (RCBs) and implements Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs).
An MIC certificate serves as proof that your device meets Japan’s technical, safety, and compatibility standards. This document is required for customs clearance. Without this certificate, your product cannot be shipped.
Product Requiring Certification
MIC certification is divided into five categories. Each category has its own product group. This also determines the application documents required for certification.
Specific Radio Equipment (SRE)
Specific Radio Equipment (SRE) refers to devices that intentionally transmit radio signals for telecommunications purposes. Examples of such products include Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth speakers, and drones.
Special Specific Radio Equipment (SSRE)
Special Specific Radio Equipment (SSRE) refers to SRE devices with lower power output. Examples include Bluetooth Low Energy trackers, Low Power Equipment (LPE), and Short-Range Devices (SDR).
Telecommunications Terminals
Telecommunications Terminals are telecommunications devices connected to public networks, either via cable or wirelessly. Examples of these products include smartphones, IP phones, and broadband routers.
High Frequency Devices (HFD)
High-Frequency Devices (HFDs) are used across various fields, including industry, medicine, and science. Examples of such products include industrial heating systems, microwave ovens, and RF welding machines.
Extremely Low Power Devices (ELP)
Extremely Low Power Devices (ELP) are devices with extremely low power output that exceed the legally established field strength thresholds. Examples of such products include toys with BLE, RFID tags, and keychains.
Who Can Apply for Certification?
As in most countries, applicants for certification in Japan must be registered local companies. These can be manufacturers, importers, or distributors.
Foreign companies must appoint a local company to act as their representative. Without a local representative, you cannot submit an application.
Partnering with Narmadi Company gives you a reliable local partner. We will assist you throughout the entire certification process, even if you do not yet have a local representative.
MIC Certification Process
RF certification in Japan can only be obtained through local testing. There is no option for paperwork or document evaluation.
Products will be tested to ensure they meet Japanese laboratory standards. Local testing requires shipping samples. The number and type of samples will depend on the device’s features and the required testing.
Local testing
Local testing for RF certification in Japan will assess radio-frequency performance, electromagnetic compatibility, and safety. The specific types of testing will depend on the device type.
In Japan, generally only one standard sample is required for testing. However, some products may require additional units with specific configurations. Narmadi Company and RCB teams will guide you through the sample and testing process.
In addition to preparing samples, you’ll also need to prepare several documents for the certification application. The following documents are required:
- The test report
- A Japanese-language user manual
- Antenna specifications
- A component layout diagram
- A parts list with a circuit diagram
- A block diagram
- Internal and external photographs
Submit document and evaluation
Once testing is complete, submit all required documents to the RCB. All documents will be evaluated and reviewed to ensure they are complete and valid.
Your MIC certificate will be issued almost immediately after the documents pass evaluation. However, if they do not pass, you must correct any missing or incorrect information so they can be re-evaluated.
Lead Time and Certificate Validity
The lead time for RF certification in Japan is relatively short compared to other countries that also require local testing. From testing to certification, the entire process takes about three to four weeks.
When it comes to certificate validity, Japan is also the best. MIC certificates have no expiration date. The certificate remains valid as long as there are no changes to the RF features. Any changes to the RF design will require the product to undergo retesting.
Label Requirements
Labeling requirements for RF certification in Japan are mandatory. Once a product has obtained MIC certification, the manufacturer must affix a label to the device and its packaging before marketing it.
The label must be placed in a visible and easily accessible location. If the product is too small, the label may be included in the user manual or displayed electronically. Products that use electronic labels require special authorization from the MIC.
There are three different types of labels in Japan: the Giteki label, the HFD label, and the ELP label. The Giteki label is intended for products classified as SRE, SSRE, and Telecommunications Terminals. The HFD label is intended for products classified as HFD. And the ELP label is intended for products classified as ELP.
The Giteki label features two symbols: “R” and “T.” The “R” symbol is for devices that intentionally emit RF signals. The “T” symbol is for devices directly connected to a public telecommunications network.
In addition to the “R” and “T” symbols, the Giteki label also includes a numerical code that specifies the device type, year of certification, and CB certificate number. HFD and ELP devices use their own label formats without the Giteki name.