In the world of defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, compliance isn’t just a box to check — it’s a critical safeguard for national security and business integrity. The International Traffic in Arms Regulations, better known as ITAR, set strict standards for companies that handle defense-related articles, services, and technical data.
For manufacturers, ITAR registration goes beyond legal compliance. It signals to clients, partners, and government agencies that your operations meet the highest security and quality standards. Whether you serve as a prime contractor or a supplier within the defense supply chain, understanding ITAR registration is essential to compete and thrive in regulated industries.
What Does ITAR Mean?
ITAR stands for International Traffic in Arms Regulations, a set of U.S. government rules that control the manufacture, sale, and export of defense-related articles and services.
These regulations are designed to regulate trade in defense and military technologies, ensuring they only go to approved countries and entities. The U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) administers and enforces these rules.
If your company designs, manufactures, or exports parts, equipment, or technical data that appear on the U.S. Munitions List (USML), ITAR applies to your operations.
What Is ITAR Compliance?
ITAR compliance means adhering to all requirements of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations to safeguard sensitive defense-related products and data. This includes registering with the DDTC when applicable, controlling access to ITAR-restricted information, ensuring only authorized U.S. persons handle controlled items unless specifically licensed, and maintaining detailed records of ITAR-related transactions for a minimum of five years.
Failing to maintain compliance can lead to severe consequences, including significant fines, loss of contracts, and even criminal charges.
What Does It Mean to Be an ITAR-Registered Manufacturer?
An ITAR-registered manufacturer registers with the DDTC to produce or export items listed on the USML. This registration communicates to clients and government agencies that the company has the security measures, operational processes, and documentation necessary to meet regulatory requirements.
ITAR registration does not automatically grant export approval but serves as the essential foundation for obtaining licenses and agreements related to controlled items. Request a company’s DDTC registration code and verify it through official DDTC channels to confirm ITAR registration.
Why ITAR Registration Matters for Your Supply Chain
Working with an ITAR-registered manufacturer protects your supply chain from compliance risks and ensures adherence to U.S. export laws. This is especially critical for defense contractors and companies supplying the aerospace, military, or government sectors.
ITAR registration offers legal protection by reducing the risk of fines and penalties, enables eligibility for government and defense-related contracts, safeguards sensitive information from unauthorized access, and demonstrates a commitment to meeting the highest industry standards.
How to Become ITAR Registered
Becoming ITAR registered begins with determining if your products, services, or data fall under the USML. You then prepare the necessary company documentation, register online with the DDTC, and pay the annual fee. Once registered, you must implement internal compliance programs to manage controlled items, train employees, and secure records. Renew registration annually to remain valid.
The process can take several weeks or longer, depending on your preparedness and the complexity of your operations.
ITAR Compliance Requirements for Manufacturers
Being compliant with ITAR goes beyond registration. It requires continuous operational discipline. This includes controlling facility access to authorized personnel only, securing ITAR-related data through encryption and protected networks, providing regular staff training on ITAR procedures, and maintaining all necessary export licenses for approved foreign transactions.
Compliance is not a one-time event but an ongoing responsibility to ensure that every part of your operation meets the required standards.
Our ITAR Compliance at Eagle Metalcraft
We operate as a fully ITAR-registered manufacturer under the strict guidelines of the DDTC. Our facility safeguards sensitive information, our documented processes ensure consistency and accuracy, and our trained staff handles ITAR-controlled items with precision and care.
Our certifications include ITAR registration, ISO 9001:2015, and, if applicable, recognition as a Veteran-Owned Small Business. We support clients in aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing with complete confidence in our ability to meet and exceed compliance standards.
Learn more about our ITAR Registration here.
FAQs About ITAR Registration
These FAQs give clear answers for businesses, contractors, and suppliers navigating ITAR registration, from determining eligibility to verifying compliance or preparing to register.
How can I check if a company is ITAR registered?
Ask the company for its current DDTC registration number. You can then verify this information directly with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) through official communication channels.
How do I become ITAR registered?
Determine if your products or services fall under the U.S. Munitions List (USML). Prepare the required company and ownership documentation, submit an online registration with the DDTC, and pay the applicable annual fee.
What is ITAR registered?
An ITAR-registered company registers with the DDTC to handle, manufacture, or export defense-related items on the USML.
What does ITAR registered mean?
The manufacturer registers with the DDTC, meets requirements, and is authorized to work with ITAR-controlled items in full compliance.
How do I know if I am ITAR registered?
You will have a unique DDTC registration code, confirmation documentation from the DDTC, and your registration will be active in their official records.
