CPC vs GCC: which certificate does your product need?
Both certify that a product meets CPSC rules. Which one you need depends on who the product is for.
Last reviewed: 30 October 2026
The quick answer
| Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) | General Certificate of Conformity (GCC) | |
|---|---|---|
| For | Products designed or intended primarily for children 12 and younger | General-use products covered by a CPSC rule, ban or standard |
| Testing basis | Tests by a CPSC-accepted third-party lab | A test of each product or a reasonable testing program |
| Issued by | Importer (imported goods) or US manufacturer | Importer (imported goods) or US manufacturer |
| Filed with entry | Yes, since 8 July 2026 | Yes, since 8 July 2026 |
When you need a CPC
If your product is designed or intended primarily for children 12 years old or younger, it is a children’s product. Toys, children’s clothing, childcare articles and school items are common examples.
A CPC must be based on testing by a CPSC-accepted third-party laboratory. Your own in-house tests are not enough, and the certificate must identify the lab.
When you need a GCC
A GCC covers general-use consumer products that are subject to a CPSC rule, ban, standard or regulation. Examples include some electrical items, mattresses and products covered by specific safety standards.
A GCC can be based on a test of each product or on a reasonable testing program. Many importers still use lab reports, because they make each data point easy to prove.
What both certificates must contain
- Product identification, with a unique identifier such as model number, SKU or GTIN
- Each CPSC rule the product is certified to
- Certifier contact details, and who keeps the records
- Date and place of manufacture
- Date and place of testing; for a CPC, the third-party lab
- An attestation that the product complies
Common mistakes
- Using a GCC for a children’s product. If the product is for children 12 and younger, it needs a CPC based on third-party testing.
- Citing rules the test report does not cover. Every rule on the certificate should match a test result.
- Vague manufacturing details. “China” is not enough; give the city and the month and year of production.
- Old certificates for changed products. A new material, colour or factory can mean new tests and a new certificate version.
A plain-language guide, not legal advice and not an official CPSC publication. eFiling Ready is not affiliated with CPSC or CBP. Always confirm requirements with CPSC and your customs broker.
Official sources
- CPSC eFiling: CPSC’s eFiling hub, with pages for importers and brokers, FAQs and the Product Registry.
- Final rule: Certificates of Compliance (Federal Register, 8 January 2025).
- 16 CFR part 1110 (eCFR): current text of the Certificates of Compliance regulation.
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