Most items exported to a foreign buyer will not need an export license or permit. But all items are subject to export control laws and regulations.
How to know if you need an export license
Only 5 percent of U.S. exports require an export license. Whether you need one depends on your product, the buyer, and the destination. To find out whether your product will need a license:
- Watch the video U.S. Export Regulations: Can I Export My Product?
- Review U.S. Export Licenses: Navigating Issues and Resources.
- The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) regulates most export items. This page explains how to tell if you need a license from the BIS.
- See this list of other agencies that issue export licenses or permits and what products each oversees.
Find out what export documents you need
- Watch the video Documents in an Export Transaction.
- See the list of common export documentsyou will need under U.S. export law.
LAST UPDATED: July 24, 2024
See Also
Food Export CertificatesHave a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
Call USAGov 
Chat with USAGov 