# How to get a CAGE code US businesses get a CAGE code automatically and for free when they register in SAM.gov; the Defense Logistics Agency validates the address and assigns the five-character code. There is no separate application and no fee. Foreign businesses request an NCAGE code first. Register in SAM.gov at sam.gov with the All Awards or financial assistance purpose. SAM.gov sends your entity to DLA for CAGE validation.Checked on 2026-11-12.Official source: [DLA CAGE program](https://cage.dla.mil/) | Cost | Free | | --- | --- | | How | Through SAM.gov registration | | Assigned by | Defense Logistics Agency | | Format | 5 characters | | Foreign entities | NCAGE code from their national codification bureau | ## What are the steps? - Register in SAM.gov at sam.gov with the All Awards or financial assistance purpose. - SAM.gov sends your entity to DLA for CAGE validation. - DLA confirms your physical address and assigns the code. - The CAGE code appears in your SAM.gov registration. ## How long does it take? DLA validation is part of SAM.gov processing and usually adds days, not weeks. Address mismatches cause most delays. ## How do I look up a CAGE code? Use the [CAGE code lookup](https://samgovapi.io/cage-code-lookup) by company name or code, or DLA's CAGE search at cage.dla.mil. ## Questions Does a CAGE code cost money?No. DLA assigns it at no cost.Do I need a CAGE code for grants?US entities get one through SAM.gov registration either way. ## Related - [CAGE code lookup](https://samgovapi.io/cage-code-lookup) - [What is a CAGE code](https://samgovapi.io/glossary/cage-code) - [SAM registration guide](https://samgovapi.io/guides/sam-registration)Updated 2026-11-12. Sources checked 2026-11-12.Independent. Not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by GSA, SAM.gov or any U.S. government agency. Registering in SAM.gov is free at sam.gov.

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