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FCC Certification — Change in ID
The FCC Change in ID (CID) procedure allows a party to obtain their own FCC ID for equipment that has already been certified under another grantee's FCC ID — without repeating full testing. This guide explains when it applies, the two types of CID, what documentation is needed, and how it differs from a Permissive Change.
What Is a Change in ID?
A Change in ID is an FCC authorization procedure under 47 CFR §2.933 that allows a company to obtain a new FCC ID for a device that is based on an already-certified product, without having to conduct new testing. It is commonly used by importers, rebranders, or OEM customers who are selling equipment originally certified by another company under that company's FCC ID.
The result is a new Grant of Equipment Authorization issued under the new applicant's FCC ID — with the new applicant becoming the responsible party for the device in the US market.
ⓘ A Change in ID does not allow changes to the hardware or software of the device. If any modification is made, a new certification or Permissive Change application is required instead.
Two Types of Change in ID
Type 1 — Original Grantee Retains the Original Grant
The original grantee keeps their existing FCC ID grant active. The new applicant obtains a separate FCC ID for the same equipment. Both FCC IDs are valid simultaneously. The new applicant must obtain a letter of authorization from the original grantee confirming permission to reference the original grant. This is the most common CID scenario — used when the OEM continues selling the product under their own brand.
Type 2 — Original Grantee Surrenders the Original Grant
The original grantee's grant is cancelled, and only the new applicant's FCC ID remains valid. This is used when the original grantee is exiting the market or transferring full responsibility. The original grantee must submit a request to cancel their grant, and the new applicant applies for a CID simultaneously. Less common than Type 1.
CID Application Requirements
A Change in ID application is submitted to the FCC via an accredited TCB (such as CETCB) and requires the following documentation:
1
Letter of Authorization
A signed letter from the original grantee authorizing the new applicant to reference their FCC grant. Must identify the original FCC ID, the equipment, and the new applicant by name.
2
Application Form (Form 731)
Standard FCC equipment authorization application form, filed by the new applicant (or their TCB). Identifies the new grantee, the equipment, and references the original FCC ID.
3
Equipment Photos and Label Exhibit
Photos of the device showing the new FCC ID label placement. The new FCC ID must be affixed to the equipment — the original grantee's FCC ID cannot be the only visible marking.
4
No New Test Report Required
Testing documentation from the original grant is referenced; no new testing is required provided the device is unmodified. The TCB reviews the original grant and confirms the device is identical per §2.908.
CID vs. Permissive Change vs. New Certification
Change in ID (CID)
- Device is identical to already-certified product
- New grantee takes responsibility
- No new testing required
- Original grantee letter of authorization required
- New FCC ID issued by TCB
- Processing: typically a few days
Permissive Change
- Device is modified from original certified design
- Same grantee keeps existing FCC ID
- Testing scope depends on change class (I, II, or III)
- Class III permissive change requires new TCB submission
- Original FCC ID is retained/updated
- Processing: days to weeks depending on change class
Compatible Electronics (CETCB) processes Change in ID applications as an FCC-authorized TCB. Grants typically issued in under two weeks.
FCC Certification Services →
Need FCC Certification or a Change in ID?
Compatible Electronics (CETCB) is an FCC-authorized TCB. We process new certifications and Change in ID applications — typically within two weeks.
www.celectronics.com
