The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent U.S. federal agency that regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. It is led by five Commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. For trade purposes, the FCC is a Partner Government Agency (PGA) working alongside CBP at the border.
The FCC regulates imports of radio-frequency (RF) devices — essentially any electronic product that emits or is capable of emitting radio frequency energy. Common examples include:
- Cell phones, tablets, and wearables
- Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and IoT products
- Bluetooth headphones, smart speakers, and wireless earbuds
- Two-way radios, garage door openers, and remote controls
- Industrial RF equipment
Importers of RF devices must file an FCC Declaration (historically Form 740, now transmitted electronically through ACE as the PGA Message Set). The declaration certifies that the device:
- Has been authorized through Certification, Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC), or another applicable equipment authorization procedure
- Is being imported solely for testing, evaluation, or other approved exempt purposes
- Will be brought into compliance before sale or operation
False FCC declarations or import of non-compliant devices can result in seizure by CBP, monetary forfeitures by the FCC, and re-export at the importer's expense.