In our top story this week, the sales of wireless devices in the US in any online marketplace will be getting more complicated under a new FCC requirement that the sellers make the FCC IDs of listed items visible to prospective buyers. One such marketplace, eBay, has already sent out notices ahead of the deadlines in 2027 stating that unless the IDs are displayed, those listings will be blocked from being seen by US customers.
This does not apply to amateur radio equipment. An eBay response to a query from the ARRL assured amateur radio operators and vendors that the online sales platform will not require the display of FCC IDs with listings for ham radio equipment, which is capable of operating only on the authorized amateur radio frequencies. eBay told the ARRL, however, that FCC equipment certification would only be needed for any two-way VHF/UHF radios capable of operating outside of amateur bands.
An FCC ID certifies that any device that emits radio waves -- such as a mobile phone, GMRS, FRS and citizens band radio, laptop, router or business radio -- meets government-set standards for safety, compatibility and emission limits.
