EU directive
Radio Equipment Directive (RED) – 2014/53/EU
Background
CE requirements for products using radio
RED regulates equipment that intentionally transmits or receives radio waves. It covers safety, electromagnetic compatibility, efficient use of radio spectrum, and additional requirements for certain product groups.
Scope
From wireless sensors to connected machinery
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, GNSS, and other radio equipment are affected. An integrated radio module does not automatically complete the assessment of the finished product.
Requirements
Safety, EMC, spectrum, and cybersecurity
The product must meet the essential requirements in Article 3. The manufacturer selects the conformity procedure, documents standards and testing, issues the EU declaration, and applies CE marking. Cybersecurity requirements under Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 have applied to certain categories since 1 August 2025 and interact with the later CRA requirements.
Timeline
RED applies now – CRA changes the next phase
RED has applied since 2016. Delegated cybersecurity requirements began applying on 1 August 2025. When CRA becomes fully applicable on 11 December 2027, the interaction changes; products must be assessed against the requirements relevant to their placing-on-market date.
Compliance
Radio functions can block the entire product
Deficient spectrum, safety, or EMC performance may lead to sales restrictions and recalls. Products with several radio functions require standards and test configurations that cover their actual operation.
Action plan
Prepare a RED assessment
- List radio technologies, bands, powers, and antennas
- Define intended use and markets
- Map Article 3 requirements and standards
- Assess whether a notified body is required
- Plan safety, EMC, and radio testing
- Compile technical documentation and the EU declaration
Verca
Collect RED evidence by product
Verca helps teams structure selected legislation, essential requirements, standard editions, test evidence, and documents for the finished product. It does not replace radio testing or the manufacturer's applicability assessment.