# FCC vs. ISED Canada: How Dual Certification Actually Works

Most hardware companies targeting North America assume FCC approval covers Canada automatically. It doesn't. ISED — formerly Industry Canada — is a separate regulatory body with its own certification scheme, its own ID numbering format, and its own filing requirements. The good news is that dual certification is efficient and inexpensive when you plan for it correctly.


## Transcript

### FCC doesn't cover Canada

Got FCC approval and planning to sell into Canada? Here's the common mistake: FCC certification doesn't give you Canadian market access. Canada has its own regulator — ISED — with its own certification scheme, ID format, and markings. Here's how to handle both markets.

### How dual certification works

ISED — Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, formerly Industry Canada — administers its own Radio Equipment Regulations. Under the US-Canada Mutual Recognition Agreement, a Canadian Certification Body can accept your FCC test reports and issue ISED certification without retesting. You'll still need a separate filing and IC number, in its own format — and both IDs must appear on your product.

### The practical approach

When you plan your FCC test campaign, add ISED Canada at the same time. Same lab, same test run, same reports — just a separate filing through a Canadian Certification Body. The cost is low, and it gives you legal access to the Canadian market.

Tags: FCC, ISED, Canada, IC certification, dual certification