CE Certification Mark

We know that after passing CE certification testing, products will display the CE certification mark. However, few people notice the number on the CE mark. What does this number represent? What is its significance? Let me explain the meaning behind this number.

What Does the Number on the CE Marking Signify?

(1) If the number following the CE mark is four digits, it typically represents the identification number of the Notified Body (NB) authorized by the European Commission. Each NB number is unique and remains constant regardless of the EC certificate holder or their products.

(2) A lower NB number indicates earlier authorization by the European Commission. Generally, NBs numbered below 500 belong to the first batch of notified bodies authorized by the Commission.

(3) NB numbers can typically be found in the official EU publications or on the EU website (though the website may lag behind publications due to multilingual requirements).

(4) Occasionally, manufacturers unfamiliar with EU regulations—particularly those using Model A (self-declaration)—may erroneously print other numbers after the CE mark. From the author's observation, these instances vary widely. This is most common with Class I non-sterile medical devices without measuring functions under the MDD, IVDs classified as “Other,” and LVD products. These manufacturers (including their EU Authorized Representatives) unfamiliar with EU regulations may print their manufacturer registration number from the EU Competent Authority (CA) or the test report number from a testing body (sometimes also an NB) after the CE mark. Such practices violate EU regulations. If discovered by EU authorities or reported, severe consequences may follow.