- The RED combines health and safety, EMC and efficient use of radio spectrum.
- Its safety requirements apply without the voltage limits of the Low Voltage Directive.
- Since 1 August 2025, certain radio equipment has additional network, data and fraud-protection requirements.
When is a product radio equipment?
In simplified terms, radio equipment is an electrical or electronic product that intentionally emits or receives radio waves for communication or radio determination. Integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, NFC or other radio modules can therefore change the classification of the complete product.
Which requirements are assessed?
The Directive covers health and safety, electromagnetic compatibility and effective use of radio spectrum. Additional essential requirements may apply depending on the product class and functions.
- Safety assessment without a fixed lower voltage limit
- EMC assessment and radio testing
- Frequency bands, transmission power and intended use
- Technical documentation, EU Declaration of Conformity and CE marking
- Assessment of whether a notified body must be involved
What applies to cybersecurity?
Since 1 August 2025, certain radio-equipment categories have additional requirements for network, personal-data and fraud protection. They do not apply to every radio product; category, functions and intended use must be assessed.
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/339 repeals this RED supplement from 11 December 2027 when the Cyber Resilience Act becomes fully applicable. Projects close to this date should account for both legal stages.
Sources & legal status
This overview is based exclusively on official legal and public-authority sources.
The applicable legislation cannot be determined from the product name alone. Relevant factors include design, voltage, drive system, radio functions, intended use and the date of placing on the market. This content provides general technical information and does not replace a product-specific assessment or legal advice.