What Is a CAGE Code and How to Get One

A cage code is a five-character identifier used to identify a business or other entity that works with the federal government. For a U.S. business, get one by completing a free entity registration in SAM.gov; the Defense Logistics Agency assigns the code during that process.

The code helps agencies and contractors identify your business in federal purchasing systems. It is not a certification, a contract award, or a substitute for an active SAM registration.

What is a CAGE code?

CAGE stands for Commercial and Government Entity. The code is a five-character identifier associated with your business record. Federal agencies use it to identify entities involved in purchasing, contracting, and related activities.

For U.S. businesses, the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) assigns a CAGE code as part of the SAM.gov registration process. You do not apply for or pay for a separate code through a commercial service. If your entity is outside the United States, follow the instructions in SAM.gov because the code process may differ.

Why your business may need a CAGE code

If you want to compete for a federal prime contract, you need a full, active SAM registration. U.S. businesses receive a CAGE code through that registration. Contracting staff and prime contractors may use the code to identify your entity in procurement records and contract documents.

Having a CAGE code does not mean you are registered to bid, qualify as a small business, or have won work. You still need to meet the solicitation requirements and keep your SAM registration active. You can explore open federal bids from SAM.gov and review what agencies buy on the federal agencies and what they buy page.

CAGE code, UEI, and SAM registration

A CAGE code and a Unique Entity ID (UEI) are different identifiers. SAM.gov assigns a UEI, which is a 12-character ID. The UEI replaced the DUNS number in April 2022. A business can get a UEI without completing full SAM registration, but a UEI alone does not let you bid on federal prime contracts.

A full SAM registration is required to bid as a federal prime contractor. For U.S. businesses, DLA assigns the CAGE code during that process. Read more about the UEI number and the steps for SAM registration. Registration is free, and you do not need to hire a third party to complete it.

How to get a CAGE code

Start with your business records so the name and address you enter match your legal and tax records. You will also need to provide the information requested in SAM.gov. The exact questions depend on your entity and the purpose of your registration.

There is no separate fee for the CAGE code or SAM registration. Avoid companies that claim you must pay them to obtain a code or register. If you need help with SAM.gov, contact the Federal Service Desk, or ask a free APEX Accelerator, Small Business Development Center, or SCORE mentor for general contracting help.

1. Check whether your business already has a CAGE code. Searching first can help you avoid confusion from duplicate or outdated records.
2. Get a UEI and start an entity registration at SAM.gov. Choose the registration option that fits your goal, and provide accurate business details.
3. Complete the required registration sections and submit the information for validation. DLA assigns a CAGE code to a U.S. business during the SAM registration process.
4. Check your SAM record for the assigned code and confirm that the registration is active before pursuing a federal prime contract.

CAGE code lookup: find or verify a code

For a CAGE code lookup, search public entity records in SAM.gov. Search using the business name, UEI, or CAGE code if you have it. You can also use DLA resources on the DLA website to look for CAGE information.

Compare the result with your current legal business name and address. A search result can help you identify a code, but it does not confirm that your SAM registration is active or that every detail is current. If you find a mismatch, use SAM.gov or the Federal Service Desk to resolve it rather than creating another record without checking.

Keep your CAGE and SAM records current

SAM registrations must be renewed every 365 days to stay active. Set a reminder well before the renewal date and review the record for accuracy when you renew. An expired registration can prevent you from being eligible to receive a federal prime contract.

Update your SAM record when key business information changes, and follow any validation instructions shown in the system. If the CAGE information does not match your current business details, contact the Federal Service Desk for help. For research, you can also review federal contractors ranked by contract dollars and compare available opportunities before deciding where to focus.

Use your code as one part of your contracting plan

Once your registration is active, identify the work your business can deliver and the agencies that buy it. Select the right NAICS codes for your services or products, then check solicitations for each opportunity's instructions, deadlines, and eligibility rules. A free NAICS code lookup can help you research industry codes.

Search open federal bids for work that fits your capabilities. Read each solicitation carefully: a CAGE code supports your business identification, but it does not replace required representations, certifications, past performance, or a complete proposal.

Frequently asked questions

Is SAM registration free?

Yes. SAM.gov registration is free, and DLA assigns a CAGE code to U.S. businesses during the registration process. Paid registration services are not required.

Is a UEI the same as a DUNS number?

No. The UEI is a 12-character identifier assigned by SAM.gov, and it replaced the DUNS number in April 2022. You can get a UEI without completing full SAM registration, but you need full registration to bid on federal prime contracts.

How long does SAM registration take?

The time can vary based on the accuracy of your information and whether additional validation is needed. Do not rely on a fixed processing estimate; see how long SAM registration takes and respond promptly to any requests for information.

What is a cage code?

A CAGE code is a five-character Commercial and Government Entity identifier associated with a business record. For U.S. businesses, DLA assigns it during SAM registration.

How to get a cage code?

Complete a free entity registration in SAM.gov with accurate business information. DLA assigns a CAGE code to U.S. businesses during that process; check your SAM record for the code and registration status.