Do board games and card games need toy testing in the US?
A board game or card game needs a Children's Product Certificate only when it's a children's product. A 14+ label doesn't decide that classification by itself (16 CFR 1200.2). F963 covers playthings for children under 14 (16 CFR 1250).
Which certificate you need
For an adult collectible, assess its theme and price, limited-edition status, fragility, base and marketing together (16 CFR 1200.2). If it's a children's product, the full children's toy requirements apply, including a CPSC-accepted lab report (16 CFR 1250).
When your game needs a CPC, the US importer must issue it before entry, rather than relying on a CPC issued by the factory (16 CFR 1110.7).
For imports requiring certification, the importer must eFile certificate data in ACE with each shipment's entry from July 8, 2026, no matter what the shipment is worth (16 CFR 1110.13).
Use the CPSC directory to check the game's testing lab and its acceptance scope for the provisions tested. You need a report for each model and color, and you can ask the lab to verify its report number (CPSC lab search).
Which tests apply
For children's games, testing covers lead and eight phthalates, each limited to 0.1% (16 CFR 1307). The applicable F963 tests include coating heavy metals, magnets and batteries (16 CFR 1250). Paint or similar coatings on children's articles can't exceed 90 ppm lead (16 CFR 1303).
Small-parts rules apply to products for children under three unless a 1501.3 exclusion applies (16 CFR 1501). Sharp points or edges require the relevant checks for children under eight, subject to scope and exemptions (16 CFR 1500). Use and abuse testing, including torque and tension, follows the applicable age groups and exceptions for children aged 96 months or younger (16 CFR 1500).
What goes on the label
Children's games need tracking labels and age markings. The toy label requirements also include small-parts warnings (16 CFR 1500). For an adult collectible, an age marking is suggested, but it doesn't determine the legal classification (16 CFR 1200.2).