Here are three different ways to determine if a product requires an export license.

1. Call the BIS (Bureau of Industry and Security).

Make sure to have detailed product information ready and available before calling. The following is a list of questions you should be ready to answer.

– What are you exporting?
– Where are you exporting?
– Who will receive your item?
– What will your item be used for?

Phone numbers:

(949) 660–0144 – Western Regional Office (located in Irvine, CA)
(408) 998-8806 – Northern California branch (located in San Jose, CA)
(202) 482-4811 – Outreach and Educational Services Division (located in Washington, DC)

2. Submit a request on-line to BIS for a determination.

BIS indicates this process should take roughly 30 days for a response. The request is made through the following website: http://www.bis.doc.gov/snap/index.htm. This is probably the safest method as you receive a formal response back from BIS. However it also takes the longest.

3. Try to make a determination yourself

This is done by referencing the BIS website: https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/regulations/commerce-control-list-ccl. The key question is whether or not the item has an ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) code.

License Exceptions

If a license is required for your transaction, a license exception may be available. License Exceptions, and the conditions on their use, are set forth in Part 740 of the EAR. If your export is eligible for a license exception, you would use the designation of that license exception (e.g., LVS, GBS, TMP) on your export documents.

To apply for an export license, visit http://www.bis.doc.gov/licensing/applying4lic.htm.