Open Up Your Business Potential And Compliance with ITAR Registration & Compliance Consulting
ITAR Registration is essential for businesses involved in the defense arena engaging in the manufacture of defense articles enumerated on the ITAR US Munitions List, performing defense services to or for the benefit of foreign persons associated with those items described on the ITAR US Munitions List, or releasing technical data as defined under the U.S. Munitions List to foreign persons. ITAR registration is also required for companies involved in brokering defense articles, or items described on the U.S. Munitions Import List, whether U.S. or foreign origin.
For over 30 years, FD Associates has been the trusted authority for companies navigating ITAR compliance, ensuring seamless registration and adherence to regulations. With 100+ years of combined experience, our team provides unmatched expertise to help your business meet the ITAR requirements, avoid penalties, and secure your compliance with international opportunities.
Whether you are manufacturing, exporting, or brokering defense-related items, ITAR registration is not optional, it’s mandatory.
What is ITAR Registration?
ITAR Registration is the first step in the process by which companies comply with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), administered by the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC).
Companies dealing with defense articles, technical data, or services listed on the USML—whether manufacturing, exporting, or brokering—must register with the DDTC. Even if your company never exports, ITAR registration remains mandatory if you handle USML-regulated items. FD Associates details you how to maintain compliance and avoid costly violations.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
Navigating the ITAR registration process with the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) can be challenging. Below is a step-by-step outline to help you understand what’s involved:
- Determine Your Obligation
Confirm that your company manufactures, exports, or brokers defense articles, technical data, or services listed in the ITAR U.S. Munitions List (USML). U.S. Munitions List
- Access the DECCS Portal
Register your company in the DDTC’s Defense Export Control and Compliance System (DECCS) portal to initiate the ITAR registration process.
- Prepare and Submit Form DS-2032
Complete the DS-2032 Statement of Registration, providing detailed information about your company, its structure, and defense-related activities.
Include the appropriate supporting documentation
- Pay the Registration Fee
Submit the required registration fee, which varies based on your company’s export volume and past compliance history.
- Initial Registration Confirmation
Once approved, you will receive confirmation of your ITAR registration, which is valid for one year.
- Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Registration is only the first step. Ongoing compliance requires obtaining the appropriate licenses, implementing an export control program, training to company personnel, monitoring activities to avoid violations and regular auditing.
Common Misunderstandings
Many companies mistakenly believe that ITAR registration alone ensures compliance. However, registration simply makes your business eligible to apply for export licenses. Full compliance requires:
- Proper classification of items being exported
- Securing export licenses as applicable to different types of export scenarios
- Regular training for employees on ITAR requirements.
- A robust documented compliance program to prevent violations.
- Regular auditing
Why Partnering with Experts is Crucial
The ITAR registration process is detailed and unforgiving. Consulting experienced professionals like FD Associates ensures you:
- Complete all steps accurately and efficiently.
- Understand the nuances of ITAR requirements.
- Avoid costly errors that could delay registration or result in penalties.
ITAR Compliance: Beyond Registration
ITAR Registration is just the first step in achieving full compliance. Meeting the requirements of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) goes far beyond submitting forms, it demands a comprehensive, ongoing commitment to ensure your business remains compliant.
More Than Just Forms
To fully comply with ITAR, your business must:
- Develop Documented Export Compliance Policies
Clear, detailed procedures for classification, exporting and handling defense articles, technical data, and services and brokering to ensure adherence to ITAR regulations.
- Conducting Regular Employee Training
Train staff at all levels to understand their roles in ITAR compliance, including conducing export jurisdiction and classification analysis, appropriate storing and controlling export controlled hardware and technical data and following proper export protocols when marketing, selling, brokering, and exporting hardware, software, technical data, and services including the release of technical data in the United States to foreign persons.
- Perform Due Diligence on Supply Chains
Have a comprehensive process that performs adequate due diligence on suppliers, customers, and partners including denied party screening and verifying how your export controlled technical data and hardware will be managed by your suppliers, customers and partners.
- Schedule Annual Audits and Assessments
Conduct regular reviews to identify and address gaps in your compliance program, ensuring your processes evolve alongside changing regulations.
ITAR compliance is an ongoing responsibility that requires well-documented programs, continuous oversight, and frequent training.
At FD Associates, we specialize in helping companies implement robust ITAR compliance frameworks, giving you peace of mind that your business is secure, compliant, and prepared for the future.
FD Associates ITAR Services
At FD Associates, we provide a full suite of ITAR-related services to support your company at every stage of its compliance journey. Whether you are registering for the first time, preparing export licenses, or developing internal programs, our team has the experience and expertise to guide you.
What We Offer
- ITAR Registration Assistance
- Export License Preparation and Management
- Compliance Program Development
- Audits and Gap Analysis
- Training for Employees
- Support with Voluntary Disclosures and Consent Agreements
Our Experience
With over 30 years of service and 100+ years of combined team expertise, FD Associates stands as a leader in ITAR compliance, licensing and registration. Our team of experienced consultants and attorneys has extensive hands-on experience guiding businesses of all sizes through the complexities of ITAR regulations.
Additional ITAR Resources & Tools
FD Associates is committed to helping businesses stay informed and compliant with ITAR regulations. We provide a variety of tools and resources to help you and your team succeed.
FD Associates’ Upcoming ITAR Training
DDTC Guidelines DDTC Compliance Guidelines
Get Expert Guidance Today
Secure your compliance today! Contact FD Associates for the highest level of guidance on ITAR registration and beyond. Schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation today!