How to Apply for CE Certification? – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
For products sold in the European Economic Area (EEA), obtaining a CE Certificate and CE Marking is mandatory. However, many manufacturers and exporters struggle to find a clear answer to the question:
"How do I apply for CE certification?"
In this article, we will walk you through the CE certification application process step by step, regardless of product type.
What Is the CE Mark, and Why Apply for It?
The CE Mark is a declaration of conformity indicating that your product complies with EU regulations. With this mark, your product:
- Can circulate freely within the European market,
- Will not face issues during customs controls,
- Is legally accepted during inspections.
However, to obtain the CE mark, it is essential that the technical processes are properly followed.
How to Apply for a CE Certificate? – The 7-Step Process
The application process may vary depending on the product group, but the general steps are as follows:
1. Determine Which Regulation Applies to Your Product
Each product may be subject to different EU regulations:
- Electrical Products → LVD (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU)
- Machines → Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC)
- Toys → Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) → (EU 2016/425)
Note: Incorrectly selecting the applicable regulation could invalidate the entire process.
2. Identify the Relevant Harmonized Standards
You must identify the EN standards that outline the testing criteria for your product:
- LED Lighting → EN 60598, EN 55015
- Toys → EN 71-1, EN 71-2, EN 71-3
3. Prepare the Technical File
The technical file is the core of the CE process. It should include:
- Product description and technical drawings,
- Applicable standards used,
- Test reports,
- Risk analysis,
- User manual,
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
Note: The technical file must be kept for 10 years for most products.
4. Conduct Necessary Tests
Testing is mandatory for certain products, especially:
- Electrical and electronic products,
- Pressure vessels,
- Toys,
- Personal protective equipment (PPE).
Note: Tests must only be conducted at accredited laboratories.
5. Check Whether a Notified Body is Required
Some products require involvement from a Notified Body (NB) in the process. For example:
- Medical Devices (MDR 2017/745),
- Category III Personal Protective Equipment,
- High-risk machines,
- Gas appliances.
If your product falls under these categories, a Notified Body evaluation is mandatory.
6. Prepare the Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
As a manufacturer, you must officially declare that the product complies with relevant regulations. Without this declaration, the CE mark cannot be applied.
7. Apply the CE Mark on the Product
Once all the steps are completed, the CE mark can be placed on your product. It must be:
- Visible, legible, and indelible,
- On the product or its packaging,
- If a Notified Body was involved, include the 4-digit ID of the Notified Body.
Where to Apply for the CE Certificate?
For some products, the manufacturer's declaration is sufficient. For products requiring a Notified Body, the application must be submitted to one of the organizations listed in the EU Commission's NANDO database.
In Turkey, certain product groups have designated Notified Bodies.
Sertifike's Contribution
The CE certification process may seem complex. At Sertifike, we assist manufacturers in the following ways:
- Determining which regulations apply to your product,
- Identifying the relevant standards and tests,
- Organizing the testing process with accredited laboratories when necessary,
- Ensuring the technical file is complete.
For a faster and smoother process, feel free to contact us.
Conclusion
The CE certification application is one of the most critical steps for entering the European market. Selecting the correct regulations, conducting necessary tests, and preparing a complete technical file are the cornerstones of the process.
If you wish to learn the specific steps for your product and speed up the process, feel free to contact Sertifike.
