On July 24, 2026, Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) approved and enacted amendments to the Radio Equipment Regulations. These amendments reorganize the rules governing certain low-power radio stations in the 433 MHz frequency band.
This relates to new frequency allocations for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) systems. These systems are now designated as a separate category of radio equipment, no longer grouped under the broader classification of low-power radio stations.
Manufacturers and importers of vehicles or automotive components that use these systems in Japan need to understand these new frequency allocations for TPMS and RKE systems. This will require adjustments to their existing and future certifications.
Changes to the 433 MHz Frequency Allocation
Previously, the frequency range permitted for TPMS and RKE systems was included in the broader classification of low-power radio stations at 433.795–434.045 MHz. Currently, the range is much wider, at 433.05–434.79 MHz.
This change resulted from a public consultation previously conducted by the MIC regarding the 433 MHz frequency band. It was decided to reclassify TPMS and keyless entry systems as separate equipment categories. Consequently, they are no longer treated as general-purpose low-power radio devices.
Do You Need to Recertify Existing Products?
For products that have already received Giteki approval within the previous frequency range—namely, 433.795–434.045 MHz—that approval remains valid. Manufacturers do not need to undergo recertification simply because the regulation itself has changed.
However, this is on the condition that the product continues to operate exactly as it did when it was first certified. If you make changes to how the device operates within this frequency range, the situation is different.
When Is a New Giteki Certification Required?
New Giteki certification is only required if a previously certified product is modified in a way that alters its radio operation. There are two scenarios considered modifications: expanding a product’s operating frequency to a newly authorized range, or enabling frequency hopping through a firmware update.
Even if the underlying hardware itself remains unchanged, if either of these changes is made, you will still need to be recertified. This is an important consideration for manufacturers—one that Narmadi Company frequently encounters—who assume that firmware updates alone do not require regulatory approval.
Impact on Japan Type Approval Certification
Overall, these regulatory changes slightly alter the landscape of Japan type approval process. The good news is that the new frequencies for TPMS and RKE systems do not require recertification of products already on the market.
These changes simply clarify the distinction between what is considered routine operation and what is considered a modification requiring new certification. It is important to keep this in mind when planning firmware updates or design changes for these products.
Evaluating early on whether a change falls under a scenario that triggers recertification will ensure you take the right steps for your product. This is because recertification is required before an updated product can continue to be marketed in Japan.
If you have questions about how these regulatory changes affect your certified products, please contact Narmadi Company. We are ready to help you navigate the Giteki certification process in accordance with current Japanese requirements.
