UKCA Certification Guide: Complete Requirements and Process 2025
If you plan to sell products in Great Britain, you need to understand UKCA certification. This guide outlines the full process, explains all UKCA requirements, and helps you avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re new to UK compliance or transitioning from CE, you’ll find everything you need to ensure market access in 2025 and beyond.
What is UKCA Certification?
UKCA Marking Overview and Purpose
UKCA stands for “UK Conformity Assessed.” It is the post-Brexit equivalent of CE marking, used to show that a product meets applicable UK legislation for safety, health, and environmental protection. Like CE, it is a legal requirement, not a quality indicator.
UKCA applies to products placed on the market in:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
It does not apply in Northern Ireland, where different rules apply (NI Protocol, CE or UKNI marking).
When UKCA Certification is Required
UKCA certification applies to many products placed on the market in Great Britain. It broadly mirrors the categories that previously required CE marking. Understanding these categories helps companies decide whether their products fall under UKCA rules, especially when selling into the UK alongside the EU.
- Electrical and electronic devices
- Machinery and tools
- Medical devices
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
- Toys and childcare products
- Construction products
The rules apply to both UK manufacturers and foreign companies importing into the UK.
UKCA vs CE Marking – Key Differences
Although similar in scope, UKCA and CE differ in a few key areas:
Products Covered by UKCA Regulations
UKCA regulations apply to many product categories placed on the market in Great Britain. These categories broadly reflect those previously covered under EU rules, but each has its own specific UK legislation. Understanding where your product fits helps teams prepare the correct documentation and plan their technical file effectively.
- Low Voltage Equipment
- Electromagnetic Compatibility
- Pressure Equipment
- Construction Products
- Lifts and Machinery
- Gas Appliances
Each category is governed by specific UK regulations derived from EU law.
UKCA Certification Requirements – Complete Checklist
To meet UKCA certification requirements, you must follow a formal process and retain full documentation.
Essential Documentation Requirements
When placing products on the market in Great Britain, certain documents must be prepared and kept available. These materials demonstrate how the product was assessed, how it meets the relevant requirements, and what information users need to operate it safely. Keeping these documents organised also helps teams respond quickly if authorities request evidence.
- A UK Declaration of Conformity
- Technical documentation (technical file)
- Product labelling with the UKCA mark
- User manuals and safety information
These documents must be available to enforcement authorities upon request.
Conformity Assessment Procedures
Routes to conformity depend on the product category and its associated risk. Options include:
- Self-assessment (for low-risk products)
- Third-party assessment by a UK Approved Body
- Quality management system audit (for high-risk products)
Check the UK regulation that applies to your product.
Technical File Requirements
The technical file is the evidence that supports your product’s assessment. It brings together design details, testing information, and documentation that shows how the product meets the relevant requirements. Keeping this file complete and well-organised makes it easier to respond to requests from authorities and maintain clear internal records.
- A detailed product description
- Design specifications and schematics
- Test reports and risk assessments
- Standards applied (e.g. BSI or EN standards)
- Labelling and instructions
Keep your file accessible for at least 10 years from the date the product is placed on the market.
Declaration of Conformity Requirements
The UK Declaration of Conformity is the formal statement that outlines how a product has been assessed and which requirements it meets. It must be accurate, complete, and kept up to date, as it forms part of the core documentation that authorities may request at any time.
- Manufacturer’s details
- Product model and description
- Applied UK regulations
- Standards used
- Name and signature of responsible person
This document is legally binding and must be updated when changes occur.
UKCA Product Manual and Documentation Requirements
Mandatory Information in UKCA Product Manuals
Product manuals for UKCA-marked items must give users the information they need to install, operate, and maintain the product safely. This content also helps demonstrate that the product has been assessed and documented appropriately. Clear, relevant instructions support correct product use and reduce the risk of misunderstandings.
- Intended use and limitations
- Clear and specific safety instructions
- Installation and operating instructions
- Maintenance and disposal guidance
- UK Declaration of Conformity (or reference to it)
Ensure the content is relevant, accurate, and easy to understand.
Safety Instructions and Warnings for UKCA
All warnings must be:
- Written in plain English
- Specific to risks in installation and use
- Supported by recognised safety icons
Poor safety documentation is a common reason for non-compliance.
Installation and Operating Instructions
These must describe:
- Setup procedures
- Electrical or mechanical connections
- Normal operating conditions
- Troubleshooting guidance
Visuals, diagrams, and consistent formatting improve usability and compliance.
Multi-language Requirements for UK Market
Unlike CE, UKCA documentation must be in English only. Even if you distribute in Wales or Scotland, a complete English manual is mandatory.
UKCA Certification Process Step-by-Step
Step 1 – Determine UKCA Applicability
Check whether your product is covered by UK regulations that require UKCA marking. Use official UK government lists or consult your industry body.
Step 2 – Choose Conformity Assessment Route
Determine if you can self-certify or if you need to involve a UK Approved Body. This depends on your product type and associated risks.
Step 3 – Prepare Technical Documentation
Create a compliant technical file with all required evidence, design materials, and standards references. Keep this documentation up to date.
Step 4 – Engage Approved Bodies (if required)
For high-risk products, coordinate with a UK Approved Body for testing or certification. Make sure they are officially listed and competent for your product category.
Step 5 – Apply UKCA Marking
Affix the UKCA mark visibly, legibly, and indelibly. It must be at least 5 mm in height and placed on the product, label, or packaging.
Step 6 – Create Declaration of Conformity
Draft and sign the UK Declaration of Conformity. This confirms your product meets UK legal requirements and must be included or referenced in the product manual.
UKCA Certification Costs and Timeline
UKCA Certification Cost Breakdown
Costs depend on product type, risk level, and whether a third-party is involved. Typical cost factors:
- Testing and lab certification
- UK Approved Body fees
- Manual translation and formatting (if adapted from CE)
- Internal resource time for documentation
How Long Does UKCA Certification Take?
Timelines vary by product complexity:
- Simple self-certified items: 1–2 weeks
- Products requiring third-party testing: 2–8 weeks
- Products with significant documentation gaps: longer
Planning early reduces delays.
Factors Affecting UKCA Certification Costs
- Need for re-testing if CE results are outdated
- Use of UK-specific standards
- Complexity of risk assessments
- Volume of documentation or versions
Budget Planning for UKCA Compliance
To budget effectively:
- Start with a compliance gap analysis
- Get early quotes from UK Approved Bodies
- Factor in long-term maintenance costs (e.g. re-assessment after updates)
Common UKCA Certification Mistakes to Avoid
Documentation Errors and Omissions
Missing risk assessments, incomplete instructions, or outdated standards are common causes of failed compliance.
Incorrect UKCA Marking Application
Do not:
- Resize the logo improperly
- Omit it from the product or packaging
- Use CE or dual marks unless permitted (in transition cases)
Missing UK Responsible Person
If you're not based in the UK, you must appoint a UK Responsible Person. This role is similar to the EU Authorised Representative.
Inadequate Technical File Preparation
Avoid:
- Vague product descriptions
- Unsupported conformity claims
- Poor organisation or outdated documents
Frequently Asked Questions About UKCA Certification
Is UKCA certification mandatory for all products?
No. Only for those covered by relevant UK regulations.
Can I use CE marking instead of UKCA in the UK?
Only during approved transition periods. Long term, UKCA is required.
How long is UKCA certification valid?
It remains valid unless the product, standards, or regulations change.
Do I need a UK Responsible Person for UKCA?
Yes, if your company is outside the UK.
What happens if I don't have UKCA certification?
Products may be refused entry, recalled, or subject to fines.
Can I self-certify for UKCA marking?
Yes, for low-risk products under certain regulations. Others require third-party assessment.
Getting Started with UKCA Certification – Action Plan
- Check whether UKCA applies to your product
- Identify the correct assessment procedure
- Prepare or update technical documentation
- Draft the UK Declaration of Conformity
- Mark your product with the UKCA logo
- Translate your documentation (if needed)
- Assign a UK Responsible Person (if applicable)
Need to streamline product manuals and technical files for the UK market?
Use Pergamon to generate structured, UKCA-compliant documentation efficiently.
