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Last reviewed: September 2026 · Copy link
CPC for die-cast and toy cars
Which rules apply to die-cast and toy cars
- Die-cast and plastic toy cars test for lead in the zinc/alloy body and paint (die-cast metal is a documented lead source), small parts on wheels and spoilers after abuse, and phthalates on rubber tires.
- CPSIA section 101 total lead content in accessible substrate materials.
- 16 CFR part 1303 lead in paint and surface coatings where painted or coated.
- CPSIA section 103 tracking labels: manufacturer, location, and date of manufacture on product and packaging.
The testing and certification path
Testing covers lead in the alloy body and every painted detail, small-parts behavior of wheels and detachable parts after drop and torque, phthalates in rubber tires and interiors, and sharp-edge review on cast metal.
Book testing at a laboratory that is CPSC-accepted for each rule, issue the CPC in your own name citing the rules your report supports, and keep the certificate with its test report for at least five years. Marketplaces ask for the pair, not the certificate alone.
Questions people ask
Why do die-cast cars get lead attention?
Zinc alloys and imported paints have historically carried lead — die-cast toy cars are a standing import-screening item. Test the body alloy and every paint color.
Do wheels count as small parts?
After drop and torque testing, wheels that separate become small-parts candidates. Axle security is the design fix.
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