Do I need a license to export?

Not necessarily. All export shipments are carried out on a transaction basis, and 98 percent of all exported products are automatically covered under a general license issued by the U.S. government; this license requires no paperwork. Should a product not fall under a general licensing category, a "validated license" must be obtained from the government. Also, validated licensing may be applicable to countries such as Cuba or China due to foreign policy concerns.

For an application to obtain a validated license, contact the Exporter Assistance Office at the U.S. Department of Commerce, Room 1099D, Washington, D.C. 20230, (202) 482-4811.

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