US EXPORT CONTROLS

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INDEPENDENT RESEARCH PLATFORM / Updated October 17, 2026
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EXPORT CONTROLS ACADEMY · FOR EDUCATORS & STUDENTS

EAR 101:
Know the code.

Start with the essentials of the Export Administration Regulations, then bring the lesson to life with an educational music video.

WATCH & LEARN

Know the Code

An educational music video for an introduction to export controls.

Open the video in a new tab ↗

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Let’s go much deeper.

Explore the EAR, see the technology, and plan a visit to the heart of Washington, DC.

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THE FOUNDATIONS

Understanding the EAR

What are the EAR?

The Export Administration Regulations are U.S. rules administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), within the Department of Commerce. They address exports, reexports, and transfers of items subject to the EAR, as well as certain activities. The regulations appear in 15 CFR Parts 730–774.

Read the EAR at BIS ↗

What do they cover?

Items can include physical goods, software, and technology. Start by determining whether the item or activity falls within the EAR’s scope. A release of controlled technology to a foreign person in the United States can also be a deemed export; a physical shipment is not always necessary.

Part 734: scope and definitions ↗

What is an ECCN?

An Export Control Classification Number identifies a Commerce Control List entry. Its five characters describe a category (0–9), a product group (A–E), and a specific entry (the final three digits). Classification depends on the entry’s technical criteria. An ECCN differs from a customs tariff code.

BIS classification guidance ↗

What does EAR99 mean?

EAR99 is the designation for an item subject to the EAR that is not described by an ECCN. Many EAR99 transactions do not need a license, but restrictions involving a destination, end user, or end use can still require one.

BIS explanation of EAR99 ↗

CLASSROOM DISCUSSION

Five questions before a transfer

  1. What is the item? Determine whether the EAR applies, then identify the appropriate ECCN or EAR99 designation.
  2. Where is it going? Review destination controls and any applicable country restrictions.
  3. Who will receive it? Examine the parties to the transaction and applicable end-user restrictions.
  4. How will it be used? Check the intended end use and resolve relevant concerns.
  5. What authorization is needed? Determine whether a license is required, a license exception is available, or the transaction may proceed without a license. Retain the required records.

Teaching framework based on Part 732: Steps for Using the EAR. This is an introductory framework, not a complete transaction review.

Try it together

A student is sending a research device and its software overseas. Ask the class what technical details, destination information, recipient information, and intended-use facts they would need before deciding whether authorization is required.

Explore compliance tools →Read the current EAR ↗

GAI-assisted educational overview based on the official BIS sources linked above. Verify the current rules before acting. This page does not provide a classification or licensing determination. USExportControls.com is an independent resource and is not affiliated with BIS or the U.S. government.