Minds → Telecom & FCC → How can a party get a waiver from the FCC's terminal equipment connection requirements under 47 CFR 68.5? Answer in under 100 words.

US FederalFCC

How can a party get a waiver from the FCC's terminal equipment connection requirements under 47 CFR 68.5? Answer in under 100 words.

Any interested person, such as a manufacturer or service provider, may apply to the Federal Communications Commission for a waiver from the hearing aid compatibility requirements of § 68.4(a)(1) under 47 CFR 68.5.

Last verified: 2026-08-26 · Sources checked: 1/1 resolving · Next scheduled review: 2026-11-24

Details / How it works

The Commission initiates a formal waiver proceeding upon application. The waiver applies to new telephones or devices associated with a new technology or service (e.g., VoIP phones or cordless phones using emerging digital standards).

Numbers & thresholds

No specific numerical thresholds are defined; the grant is based on evidence in the administrative record.

Exceptions & edge cases

A waiver may be granted if the telephones, technology, or service are in the public interest and at least one of two conditions is met: (a) Technological Infeasibility or (b) Excessive Cost Impact. The Commission must also consider the effect on hearing-impaired individuals and will periodically review any granted waiver.

Sources

[1]U.S. National Archives, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations — 47 CFR 68.5 — Waivers · as of 2026-08-26

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