eBay has imposed new restrictions on listings of radio transmitting equipment in response to FCC rules that took effect on October 13, 2026, according to the ARRL. The restrictions require sellers to submit and post FCC ID numbers for equipment subject to FCC authorization.
The FCC’s new rules, issued in its Third Report and Order on July 23, 2026, aim to protect against “national security threats to the communications supply chain” through the agency’s equipment authorization program. The rules cover a wide variety of products and establish that online marketplaces share legal responsibility to ensure unauthorized RF devices are not offered for sale on their platforms.
However, eBay responded to an ARRL inquiry clarifying that its policy includes a significant exemption for amateur radio equipment. According to an eBay spokesperson, “eBay allows the sale of devices capable of operating only on frequencies that the FCC has allocated for use by Amateur Radio Service licensees. As these devices do not require FCC equipment authorization, FCC IDs will not be required for these listings.”
The exemption applies because amateur radio licensees can operate such radios under their license authority. In contrast, two-way VHF/UHF radio equipment capable of operating outside amateur frequency bands cannot be imported, advertised, sold, or operated in the United States without FCC equipment certification.
The FCC’s underlying equipment authorization rules remain unchanged. Amateur radio equipment, except for commercial HF amplifiers, continues to not require FCC authorization, according to the ARRL.
eBay noted that the new rules include exemptions for posts already online, small sellers, and used equipment. The company indicated that if it inadvertently restricts listings for devices that don’t require FCC IDs and are otherwise authorized, affected sellers should inform eBay for assessment and potential removal of restrictions.
Key facts
- eBay implemented new restrictions on radio equipment listings following FCC rules that took effect October 13, 2026
- Amateur radio equipment operating exclusively on ham frequencies is exempt from the FCC ID requirement
- The FCC’s new rules aim to protect against national security threats to the communications supply chain
- Amateur radio equipment, except commercial HF amplifiers, does not require FCC authorization
- Online marketplaces share legal responsibility to prevent unauthorized RF devices from being sold on their platforms