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The Children's Product Certificate, explained

What a CPC is, who issues it, and how to ask for one.

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What a CPC is

CPSC says domestic manufacturers and importers of children's products must certify in a written Children's Product Certificate, "based on test results from a third-party, CPSC-accepted laboratory," that their products comply with the children's product safety rules that apply.

Which products need one

CPSC says children's products "designed or intended primarily for children 12 years of age or younger" that are subject to a children's product safety rule "require third-party testing and certification."

Toys for older children

CPSC says toys intended for an audience older than 12 might be subject to ASTM F963, but would not need third-party testing at a CPSC-accepted lab.

What it lists

CPSC lists seven required elements for a CPC, including the rules cited and the third-party, CPSC-accepted laboratory. CPSC also describes eFiling of certificate data with U.S. Customs and Border Protection from July 8, 2026.

Asking for one

Ask the maker or seller whether the toy has a Children's Product Certificate. We do not say any product has, lacks, or meets a certificate.

This is general information, not legal advice.

Sources: CPSC, Children's Product Certificate; CPSC, Toy Safety Business Guidance.

FAQ

Is a CPC a CPSC approval?

CPSC describes the CPC as the manufacturer's or importer's own certificate. We do not say any product is approved.

Can I look up a certificate?

We do not describe a lookup. Ask the maker or seller, and check cpsc.gov/Recalls.

General information only, for adults choosing toys for children. We do not test, certify, or rate any product, and we do not say any toy or kit is safe or right for a particular child or age. Before you buy or use one, read the maker's age grade, warnings, and instructions, follow any adult supervision directions, and check for recalls at cpsc.gov/Recalls. Keep small parts, magnets, button and coin batteries, and kit chemicals away from young children. A swallowed magnet, button battery, or coin battery needs medical help right away; do not delay. If you think a child swallowed or touched something harmful, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.

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ASTM F963, the toy standard, explained

The federal toy standard.

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Lead and phthalates in toys: the federal limits

The limits, in CPSC words.

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Toy recalls: how to check before you buy

Check cpsc.gov/Recalls.

Next: ASTM F963