Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has published Radio Standards Specification RSS-247, Issue 4, updating certification requirements for digital transmission systems (DTS), frequency-hopping systems (FHS), hybrid devices and licence-exempt local area network (LE-LAN) equipment operating across specified frequency bands.
Published on 24 July 2025, Issue 4 replaces RSS-247 Issue 3 and introduces changes to technical requirements, testing and reporting. ISED subsequently published Amendment 1 on 8 October 2026, updating the dynamic frequency selection requirements in Section 7.3.6.3 following the publication of RSS-Gen Issue 6.
These changes are relevant to manufacturers developing or supplying Wi-Fi and other licence-exempt wireless products for the Canadian market.
Background: What Is RSS-247?
RSS-247 establishes certification requirements for specified radio equipment using digital transmission, frequency hopping or a combination of both technologies. It also covers licence-exempt local area network devices operating in designated frequency bands.
The standard applies to equipment operating in specified portions of the 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz ranges, including:
902–928 MHz
2400–2483.5 MHz
5150–5350 MHz
5470–5895 MHz
The applicable requirements depend on the device technology, operating frequency band and intended use.
Equipment covered by RSS-247 is classified as Category I equipment and requires a Technical Acceptance Certificate (TAC) issued by ISED’s Certification and Engineering Bureau or a certificate issued by a recognised certification body. Although these devices are licence-exempt, they must still meet the applicable equipment certification requirements.
Key Changes Introduced in RSS-247 Issue 4
ISED has introduced several technical revisions intended to clarify requirements and update how particular wireless devices are assessed.
1. Removal of the 5600–5650 MHz Operating Restriction
Issue 4 removes the previous restriction preventing devices covered by the relevant 5 GHz requirements from operating in the 5600–5650 MHz frequency range.
Manufacturers should review the revised provisions and determine how this change applies to their device’s supported frequencies and configuration.
2. Revised Requirements for Hybrid Devices
Section 6.4 has been modified to clarify the requirements for hybrid devices combining frequency-hopping systems and digital transmission systems.
The revised provisions distinguish hybrid devices from equipment that simply combines separate FHS and DTS devices. Manufacturers should review the applicable classification and technical requirements when preparing products that use both transmission technologies.
3. Updated Transmit Power Control Requirements
Issue 4 modifies Transmit Power Control (TPC) requirements in Sections 7.3.1.2 and 7.3.2.2 and introduces additional reporting requirements.
For devices requiring TPC under the standard, Section 7.1 requires the test report to include measurements with TPC enabled and disabled. The report must describe the measurement method and setup, and the results must demonstrate reduced transmit power when TPC is enabled.
Manufacturers and testing teams should therefore ensure that relevant TPC functionality is assessed and that the required evidence is included in the test report.
4. Clarifications to Unwanted Emissions and Labelling
The standard revises requirements concerning unwanted emissions for certain 5 GHz transmitters, including clarifications for equipment operating in the 5150–5250 MHz and 5250–5350 MHz bands.
It also introduces an indoor-use labelling requirement for specified devices operating in the 5250–5350 MHz band. Depending on the applicable provision, the required wording must appear on the device or in the user manual.
Manufacturers should verify the requirements applicable to their device’s operating band and emission characteristics rather than applying the same labelling or testing approach to all 5 GHz products.
5. Clarifications for Wireless LAN Devices Installed in Vehicles
Issue 4 clarifies requirements for LE-LAN devices operating within vehicles in the 5150–5250 MHz and 5250–5350 MHz bands.
The standard distinguishes original equipment manufacturer (OEM) devices installed in vehicles by vehicle manufacturers from other equipment. Specific conditions apply to permitted in-vehicle installations, including applicable power limits and TPC requirements.
Manufacturers developing automotive wireless products should review the relevant provisions to confirm whether their installation and device configuration fall within the permitted conditions.
What This Means for Manufacturers
Manufacturers targeting the Canadian market should assess whether RSS-247 Issue 4 or Amendment 1 affects their existing products, new designs or planned certification submissions.
Recommended actions include:
Review the applicable requirements: Identify the relevant provisions based on the product’s transmission technology, frequency bands and intended use.
Assess testing requirements: Determine whether the revised requirements affect RF testing, unwanted-emission measurements, TPC verification or other compliance evidence.
Check technical documentation: Ensure test reports include the measurements and reporting details required by the applicable standard.
Verify labelling and installation conditions: Review the applicable indoor-use labelling requirements and any restrictions or conditions for vehicle installations.
Confirm the current standard: Check ISED’s official RSS-247 publication for the latest issue and amendments before proceeding with certification.
A product’s compliance status should be assessed against the specific requirements applicable to its configuration. The changes in Issue 4 do not necessarily affect every device in the same way.
How C-PRAV Can Support You
C-PRAV Labs and Certifications helps manufacturers navigate product testing and regulatory compliance requirements for international market access.
For wireless products intended for Canada, our team can assist with understanding applicable testing requirements, identifying relevant technical compliance considerations and coordinating the testing and documentation activities needed to support certification.
If you are developing a new wireless device or reviewing an existing product for the Canadian market, C-PRAV can help you plan your compliance pathway and identify the next steps for your product.
For more information, contact us at: canada@c-prav.com