Most goods do not need an export license. Licenses are generally required for high tech or strategic goods and for goods shipped to certain countries where national security or foreign policy controls are important. The Dept. of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) administers export licenses and regulations. The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) require a license for certain activities and items, e.g. commodities, software and technology; if one of ten general prohibitions applies and the export or re-export is not eligible for a license exception.
Any exporter can call BIS to further assess the need for a license. BIS can be reached at (949) 660–0144 or at www.bis.doc.gov.