Federal Export Control Laws & Regulations Overview
Overview
U.S. export control and sanctions requirements are administered by multiple federal agencies. The applicable regulations depend on the equipment, materials, software, technology, technical information, destination, recipient, end user, intended end use, and other circumstances of the proposed activity.
The principal federal regulatory frameworks affecting University research include the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions regulations, and federal regulations governing certain nuclear exports and technical assistance.
The Office of Research Security (ORS) assists faculty, staff, and students in determining which federal requirements apply and whether an export license, other U.S. Government authorization, or additional safeguards are required.
REQUEST AN EXPORT CONTROL REVIEW
Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) are administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).
The EAR regulate exports, reexports, transfers, and certain other activities involving commodities, software, and technology subject to Department of Commerce jurisdiction.
Common research considerations include:
- Commerce Control List classifications.
- Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) and EAR99.
- International shipments and transfers.
- Software, source code, and technology.
- Deemed exports.
- End-user and end-use restrictions.
- Export licenses and license exceptions.
Learn more about the Export Administration Regulations
International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are administered by the U.S. Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC).
The ITAR regulate defense articles, defense services, technical data, and related activities subject to the United States Munitions List (USML).
Common research considerations include:
- Defense articles.
- Defense services.
- Technical data.
- United States Munitions List classifications.
- Foreign-person access.
- International transfers.
- Export authorizations and exemptions.
Learn more about the International Traffic in Arms Regulations
Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, administers U.S. economic and trade sanctions.
OFAC sanctions may restrict or prohibit certain activities involving sanctioned countries, governments, organizations, individuals, sectors, or other designated parties.
Common research considerations include:
- International research collaborations.
- Sanctioned countries and regions.
- Restricted organizations and individuals.
- Financial transactions.
- Research agreements and services.
- International travel.
- General and specific licenses.
Learn more about OFAC Sanctions
Nuclear Export Controls
Several federal agencies administer export control requirements affecting certain nuclear materials, equipment, technology, software, technical assistance, and related activities.
Depending on the activity, requirements may arise under:
- U.S. Department of Energy / National Nuclear Security Administration — 10 CFR Part 810
- U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission — 10 CFR Part 110
- U.S. Department of Commerce / Bureau of Industry and Security — Export Administration Regulations
Common research considerations include:
- Nuclear technology and technical assistance.
- Nuclear equipment and materials.
- Foreign nuclear activities.
- Foreign-person access.
- International research collaborations.
- International shipments and transfers.
Learn more about Nuclear Export Controls
Need Assistance?
Researchers are not expected to determine federal export control jurisdiction or licensing requirements on their own.
If you are uncertain which export control or sanctions requirements apply to a proposed research or University activity, contact the Office of Research Security before proceeding.