How to Get DLC QPL Listed: The Complete Guide
DLC QPL listing unlocks $5–$30 per fixture in utility rebates. Learn the exact requirements, testing process, and how to verify a manufacturer's DLC status.
The DesignLights Consortium (DLC) Qualified Products List (QPL) is the primary certification gateway for LED tube utility rebates in North America. Products listed on the DLC QPL are eligible for rebates from over 200 utility programs, making DLC status a critical procurement requirement for government projects, commercial facilities, and energy efficiency programs.
According to the DesignLights Consortium, the QPL currently includes over 300,000 qualified products from 1,500+ manufacturers. This guide explains exactly what DLC QPL listing requires and how to verify a manufacturer's status.
DLC QPL Requirements for T8 LED Tubes
LM-79 Photometric Testing
IES LM-79-19Full photometric report from an accredited NVLAP laboratory. Must include luminous flux, efficacy (lm/W), color rendering index (CRI ≥ 80), and correlated color temperature (CCT). DLC Standard requires ≥ 100 lm/W for T8 4ft tubes.
LM-80 Lumen Maintenance Data
IES LM-80-15Minimum 6,000 hours of lumen maintenance testing at three temperatures (55°C, 85°C, and one intermediate). TM-21 projection must demonstrate L70 ≥ 50,000 hours.
Energy Star or DLC Efficacy Threshold
DLC Technical Requirements v5.1DLC Standard: ≥ 100 lm/W. DLC Premium: ≥ 120 lm/W. Premium listing qualifies for higher rebate tiers at participating utilities.
FCC Part 15 Compliance
FCC Part 15LED driver must comply with FCC Part 15 Class B electromagnetic interference (EMI) limits. Required for all products sold in the US market.
UL or ETL Safety Listing
UL 1598 / ANSI C78.377Product must carry UL 1598 or ETL equivalent safety listing. This is separate from DLC but required for most utility rebate programs.
How to Verify a Manufacturer's DLC Status
Visit designlights.org/search
Go to the official DLC QPL search tool at designlights.org. This is the only authoritative source — do not rely on manufacturer claims alone.
Search by manufacturer or model number
Enter the manufacturer name (e.g., "Cornea") or the specific model number. Each listed product has a unique QPL ID number that can be referenced in procurement documents.
Check the listing status and date
Verify the listing is "Active" (not expired or withdrawn). Check the listing date — products listed before the current DLC Technical Requirements version may not qualify for all rebate programs.
Download the test report
DLC-listed products have publicly available LM-79 test reports. Request the report from the manufacturer and verify it matches the QPL database entry.
Official DLC & Certification Resources
Source DLC QPL-listed LED tubes factory-direct