CAGE Code Guide 2025: What It Is, How to Get One, and Why You Need It
Learn what a CAGE code is, how to get one automatically through SAM.gov, and why it matters for government contracting. Complete guide with troubleshooting tips.
Quick Answer: What is a CAGE Code?
A CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) code is a five-character identifier required for government contracting. To get one, simply register in SAM.gov—a CAGE code is automatically requested from the Defense Logistics Agency during registration. The process takes 1-2 business days after SAM.gov approval. It's free.
What is a CAGE Code?
A CAGE code is a unique five-character identifier assigned to companies doing business with the federal government. It's issued by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and serves as a standardized way to identify contractors across all federal agencies.
CAGE Code Format
- • 5 characters: Numbers and letters
- • No special characters: Letters A-Z, numbers 0-9 only
- • Unique: Each code assigned to only one entity
- • Permanent: Assigned for the life of the entity
What CAGE Codes Are Used For
- ✓Federal contract identification
- ✓Government procurement systems
- ✓Defense contractor tracking
- ✓Payment processing
- ✓Security clearance applications
Who Needs a CAGE Code
- →Federal government contractors
- →Subcontractors to federal primes
- →Grant recipients
- →Companies seeking security clearances
- →NATO contractors (NCAGE)
How to Get a CAGE Code
Getting a CAGE code is straightforward—it's automatically assigned when you register in SAM.gov. You don't need to apply separately.
The Simple Process
Register in SAM.gov
Complete your System for Award Management registration
SAM.gov Requests Your CAGE
Automatic request sent to Defense Logistics Agency
DLA Assigns Your Code
Typically within 1-2 business days of SAM approval
Code Appears in SAM.gov Profile
View in your SAM.gov entity dashboard
Important Note
You cannot apply for a CAGE code directly with the DLA if you're a U.S.-based entity. The only way to get one is through SAM.gov registration. Non-U.S. entities can apply directly for an NCAGE (NATO CAGE) code through their national codification bureau.
CAGE Code Lookup: How to Find a CAGE Code
You can look up any company's CAGE code using free government databases.
Method 1: SAM.gov Search
- 1. Go to sam.gov
- 2. Click "Search" in the navigation
- 3. Select "Entity Information"
- 4. Enter company name or UEI
- 5. CAGE code shown in results
Best for: Looking up U.S. contractors
Method 2: CAGE Search (DLA)
- 1. Go to cage.dla.mil
- 2. Click "CAGE Search"
- 3. Search by name, location, or CAGE
- 4. View detailed entity information
Best for: Looking up international NCAGE codes
Information Available in CAGE Lookup
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| CAGE Code | 5-character identifier |
| Company Name | Legal entity name |
| Address | Physical location |
| Status | Active/Inactive |
| Country | Country of registration |
CAGE Code vs UEI: What's the Difference?
Both CAGE codes and UEIs identify government contractors, but they serve different purposes and are issued by different agencies.
| Attribute | CAGE Code | UEI |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 5 characters | 12 characters |
| Issued By | Defense Logistics Agency | SAM.gov (GSA) |
| Primary Use | Defense/NATO systems | All federal procurement |
| Replaced | — | DUNS Number (2022) |
| Required For | Defense contracts | All federal contracts |
| How to Get | Automatic via SAM.gov | SAM.gov registration |
Bottom Line
You need both a UEI and a CAGE code for federal contracting. The good news: register once in SAM.gov and you'll get both automatically.
Common CAGE Code Questions
My CAGE code isn't showing in SAM.gov yet
CAGE codes are assigned 1-2 business days after your SAM.gov registration is approved. If it's been more than 5 business days, contact the DLA CAGE Program at 877-352-2255.
Can I change my CAGE code?
No—CAGE codes are permanent and cannot be changed. If your business undergoes significant changes (merger, acquisition, name change), update your SAM.gov registration and the CAGE information will be updated accordingly.
Do I need a separate CAGE for each location?
Generally, you only need one CAGE code per legal entity. Multiple locations of the same company use the same CAGE. However, legally distinct subsidiaries or divisions may need separate CAGE codes.
Does my CAGE code expire?
CAGE codes themselves don't expire, but they can become inactive if your SAM.gov registration expires. Keep your SAM.gov registration current (annual renewal required) to maintain an active CAGE code.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CAGE stand for?
CAGE stands for Commercial and Government Entity. It's a coding system developed by the Defense Logistics Agency to standardize contractor identification across federal government systems.
Is a CAGE code required for state contracts?
No—CAGE codes are specifically for federal government contracting. State and local governments have their own vendor registration systems. However, some states accept or prefer SAM.gov registration (which includes a CAGE code) as part of their process.
How much does a CAGE code cost?
CAGE codes are completely free. They're assigned automatically during SAM.gov registration at no cost. Be wary of any third party charging for CAGE code "services"—you don't need them.
What is an NCAGE code?
NCAGE (NATO CAGE) codes are the international equivalent of CAGE codes, used by NATO member countries. Non-U.S. entities apply for NCAGE codes through their national codification bureau rather than SAM.gov.
Can I look up competitors' CAGE codes?
Yes—CAGE codes are public information. Use SAM.gov or cage.dla.mil to look up any company's CAGE code. This is useful for identifying subcontractors or researching potential teaming partners.
What's the next step after getting my CAGE code?
Once you have your CAGE code (and active SAM.gov registration), you're ready to bid on federal contracts. Use BidFinds at $99/month to discover federal, state, and local opportunities matched to your capabilities.
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