CE marking is a legal requirement for products sold in the European Economic Area. For an IoT device, it confirms the product has been tested against EU rules covering radio spectrum use, electromagnetic interference, and electrical safety. Without it, the product cannot be legally sold in EU member states.
For IoT hardware, CE marking typically covers three EU Directives:
Post-Brexit, the UK requires separate UKCA marking, though CE is still accepted in many UK product categories under transitional arrangements. Always confirm which marking applies before importing into the UK market.
- RED (Radio Equipment Directive) – ensures the device uses radio spectrum correctly and does not interfere with other equipment
- EMC Directive – tests that the device neither emits nor is damaged by electromagnetic interference
- LVD (Low Voltage Directive) – covers electrical safety for devices operating between 50V and 1000V AC