Costa Rica has introduced a mandatory homologation process for Standard Power devices that use Automated Frequency Coordination systems in the 6 GHz band. Resolution RCS-138-2026 sets the Costa Rica AFC Homologation requirements for equipment operating from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz. SUTEL requires manufacturers and applicants to complete this process before using the equipment under Standard Power conditions.
The procedure defines clear rules for technical documentation, AFC connectivity, certification evidence, serial-number registration, and market access.
Costa Rica AFC Homologation and International Certifications
SUTEL accepts technical compliance evidence from several internationally recognized entities. These include the FCC, ISED, ANATEL, and certifications based on ETSI standards from a Notified Body under the Radio Equipment Directive.
SUTEL also recognizes guidance from the Wi-Fi Alliance and the Wireless Innovation Forum (WInnForum). Alternatively, applicants may submit a report from an internationally certified laboratory.
This approach helps applicants avoid unnecessary duplicate testing. Moreover, it can reduce regulatory costs and simplify market entry.
Documentation and Language Requirements
Applicants must submit the required documentation in Spanish. However, SUTEL allows a simple Spanish translation when technical reports or foreign certificates use another language.
The General Directorate of Quality, or DGC, verifies the submitted information. Applicants therefore do not need an official translator for these technical documents.
Applicants must also submit a sworn statement with an authenticated signature. The statement must confirm two points. First, the devices will operate only under the approved Standard Power conditions. Second, the registered serial numbers will match the certified equipment.
Foreign applicants may use an equivalent notarized document. They may also need to apostille or legalize it, depending on the case.
Key Technical Requirements for Standard Power Devices
Applicants must provide technical documentation showing that the device can communicate its geolocation to an AFC system at least once per day.
They must also provide:
- Brand and model information.
- Hardware and software or firmware versions.
- Operating frequency ranges.
- Maximum output power or EIRP.
- Antenna type and gain.
- Antenna elevation angle measured from the horizon.
- Six high-definition photographs of the device.
- Manufacturer-issued technical specification sheets.
The six photographs must show the top, bottom, front, rear, right side, and left side.
Additionally, the device must comply with the maximum power limits in Appendix V of Costa Rica’s National Frequency Allocation Plan, or PNAF.
Requirements for Fixed Client Devices
The procedure also covers Fixed Client Devices, or DFCs.
A DFC must remain permanently installed in a structure. It must also have its own geolocation capability.
In addition, the device must follow the applicable antenna-orientation requirements. It may operate only on channels authorized by the AFC system.
AFC Connectivity Is Mandatory for Standard Power Operation
The resolution makes AFC connectivity a core operating requirement.
After SUTEL grants the homologation certificate and the applicant registers the serial numbers, the applicant must sign an agreement with a SUTEL-accredited AFC database administrator.
The AFC system controls the device’s operating parameters. Therefore, the device needs AFC information to operate in Standard Power mode.
If the device cannot obtain that information, it cannot operate under Standard Power conditions. This may happen because of technical, contractual, or accreditation issues.
In that situation, the device must follow the PNAF conditions for equipment without Standard Power AFC functionality.
Serial Number Registration Before Commercialization
Applicants must register device serial numbers before distribution or commercialization.
After SUTEL issues the homologation certificate, the applicant must send the DGC a list of the relevant serial numbers.
SUTEL will accept only serial numbers linked to the corresponding certificate for AFC-controlled Standard Power operation.
If an applicant does not register a device’s serial number, the device cannot operate as an AFC-controlled Standard Power device. Instead, it must follow the lower-power conditions that apply to equipment without this functionality.
Multi-Band, Cellular, and Multi-Model Devices
Some Standard Power products also support other wireless technologies.
If a device operates in other free-use bands, it must also comply with Resolution RCS-245-2023 and its amendments.
If the device operates in IMT bands, the applicant must process the applicable mobile terminal homologation in parallel. This applies to equipment that includes technologies such as 3G, 4G, or 5G.
Once SUTEL completes both processes, the applicant can register the relevant identifiers. These include serial numbers for Standard Power operation and IMEIs for mobile-network operation.
SUTEL also allows several models under one certificate in specific cases. The models must differ only in aesthetic features or in characteristics unrelated to AFC-controlled Standard Power operation.
Software and Firmware Changes
The resolution also gives the DGC some flexibility when software or firmware changes affect a homologated device.
A software change may trigger a new homologation process. However, if the device still meets the other conditions of the original certificate, the DGC may exempt the applicant from resubmitting some requirements.
This approach can reduce unnecessary administrative work while maintaining regulatory oversight.
Certificate Validity
The homologation certificates do not have a fixed expiration date.
However, SUTEL can still revoke a certificate or take other regulatory action when the equipment no longer meets the applicable requirements.
What This Means for Manufacturers
Resolution RCS-138-2026 creates a specific market-access route for AFC-controlled Standard Power devices in Costa Rica.
Manufacturers and applicants should review their certification evidence before commercialization. They should also confirm AFC compatibility, geolocation capability, power limits, technical documentation, and serial-number controls.
Moreover, companies should assess whether their products need parallel homologation for other bands or mobile-network functions.
For support with certification strategy and market access, Entirety’s Product Certification Service can help companies navigate product certification requirements across global markets.
Impact Assessment
- Technical Standards? ❌ No
- Type Approval & Market Access? ❌ No
- Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ❌ No
- Spectrum Management? ✅ Yes
