Registration
All manufacturers, exporters, and brokers of defense articles, related technical data and defense services as defined on the United States Munitions List (Part 121 of the ITAR) (PDF, 7MB) are required to register with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). Registration is primarily a means to provide the U.S. Government with necessary information on who is involved in certain manufacturing, exporting and brokering activities. Registration does not confer any export rights or privileges, but is a precondition for the issuance of any license or other approval for export.
Registration Code
Once an entity has properly registered with DDTC, a unique registration code will be assigned to the registrant. The DDTC registration code consist of a letter prefix, M (assigned to a manufacturer and/or exporter) or K (assigned to a broker), followed by four or five digits (e.g. K-1234 or M 12345). The code is proprietary to the registrant and should be handled as such. Company registration codes should not be posted online or given out freely to the public.
Validity Period
The period of validity for new and renewal registrations is twelve months from the date of issuance. The expiration date is included in the registration letter issued by DDTC.
Review Times
The average review time for a registration request is 30 calendar days.
General Questions
For general questions on registration, including preparation of registration forms and status, please contact the Response Team at (202) 663-1282 or by e-mail at DDTCResponseTeam@state.gov.