How to Get a CAGE Code for a U.S. Business

What a CAGE code identifies

A Commercial and Government Entity code is a five-character identifier used in government acquisition and related systems. The Defense Logistics Agency administers the U.S. CAGE program. It identifies an entity at a particular location; it is not an endorsement of that company's capabilities.

For a U.S. business completing SAM.gov registration, CAGE assignment or validation is generally part of that process. Most new U.S. registrants do not need a separate initial DLA application simply to obtain their first code through SAM.

The usual path for a U.S. registrant

1. 01Check whether your business already has a CAGE code using the official DLA resources.
2. 02Prepare consistent legal-name and physical-address records for SAM.gov.
3. 03Complete the applicable SAM registration and entity validation steps.
4. 04Respond promptly if DLA requests additional information to assign or validate the code.
5. 05Confirm that the resulting code and entity details match your business records.

Use current DLA instructions if you have a special purpose, a location change, or an existing code that needs correction. Do not create extra entity records to bypass a mismatch.

CAGE, UEI, and facility clearance are different

• UEI: The Unique Entity ID used in federal entity registration and award systems.
• CAGE: A location-related entity identifier administered by DLA for U.S. entities.
• Facility security clearance: A separate security determination associated with access to classified information when required for contract performance.

Having a CAGE code does not authorize access to classified information. Many defense opportunities are unclassified, so do not assume a facility clearance is necessary before exploring the market.

If your entity is outside the United States

Non-U.S. entities generally use the NCAGE process through the appropriate NATO or national codification authority before completing the relevant SAM steps. Follow the official instructions for your location; the U.S. assignment path should not be treated as a universal global process.

Keep the identifier accurate

Use your validated code consistently in supplier records and capability statements. Review changes to your business location or legal information through the official channels. Never describe a CAGE code as proof of a clearance, a contract award, or government approval of your services.