If you want to do business with the U.S. federal government, you'll need a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code. This unique identifier is assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and is required for federal procurement processes, including registering in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting a CAGE Code in 2025.
What Is a CAGE Code?
A CAGE Code is a five-character alphanumeric identifier used to uniquely identify businesses that sell to the federal government. It’s required for bidding on government contracts, receiving federal grants, and being listed in federal procurement databases.
Who Needs a CAGE Code?
- U.S.-based businesses seeking to sell to the federal government
- Contractors and subcontractors on government projects
- Companies applying for GSA schedules
- Businesses seeking federal grants or working with the Department of Defense
If you're based outside the U.S., you’ll need an NCAGE Code instead, which is similar but issued through NATO’s codification system.
Step 1: Get Your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
As of April 2022, the federal government replaced the DUNS number with the Unique Entity ID (UEI).
To get a UEI:
- Go to SAM.gov
- Create an account via Login.gov
- Start your entity registration process
- Input your legal business name and physical address
- Submit and receive your UEI (free of charge)
If you’ve done business with the government before, you may already have a UEI assigned. Use the SAM Entity Search to check.
Step 2: Register with SAM.gov
To get your CAGE Code, you must register your entity in the System for Award Management (SAM):
- Visit SAM.gov and log in
- Start a new entity registration
- Enter your UEI, business info, and physical address (PO Boxes not accepted)
- Provide tax ID (TIN/EIN), NAICS codes, business size, and bank info
- Assign an Entity Administrator and submit a notarized letter if required
- Complete the representations and certifications section
Approval can take anywhere from 5–10 business days. Once approved, your CAGE Code will be issued automatically by the DLA and included in your SAM profile.
Step 3: Receive Your CAGE Code
After your SAM registration is active, the Defense Logistics Agency will assign your CAGE Code automatically. You’ll be notified by email, and the code will appear in your entity record at SAM.gov.
CAGE Codes are location-specific, so if your business address changes, your code may change too.
Step 4: Stay Compliant and Active
- Renew your SAM registration annually
- Update address, banking, and contact info as needed
- Monitor your SAM profile and email for renewal alerts
- Keep your CAGE Code active to remain eligible for contract awards
CAGE vs. NCAGE Code
- CAGE Code: For U.S.-based businesses
- NCAGE Code: For international entities working with the U.S. government
International companies must:
Helpful Resources
By following these steps, your business can become fully eligible for U.S. government contracts, streamline procurement processes, and tap into the world’s largest buyer: the federal government.
Want more help? Sales Patriot provides tools to accelerate your SAM registration, bidding workflow, and compliance tracking — empowering small businesses to win big.