Which agency handles Encryption License Applications (ELA)?

Which agency handles Encryption License Applications (ELA)?

• A. Department of State;
• B. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS);
• C. Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC);
• D. Department of Energy.

Answer: (B)

Encryption licenses are part of dual-use export controls under the Export Administration Regulations, and the Bureau of Industry and Security handles these items. BIS administers the encryption licensing process, including Encryption License Applications, and coordinates where needed with NSA for review of certain cryptographic features. The Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls deals with defense articles under ITAR, not standard EAR crypto licenses; the Department of Energy isn’t involved in export licensing for encryption items. So, BIS is the agency charged with Encryption License Applications.

Encryption licenses are part of dual-use export controls under the Export Administration Regulations, and the Bureau of Industry and Security handles these items. BIS administers the encryption licensing process, including Encryption License Applications, and coordinates where needed with NSA for review of certain cryptographic features. The Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls deals with defense articles under ITAR, not standard EAR crypto licenses; the Department of Energy isn’t involved in export licensing for encryption items. So, BIS is the agency charged with Encryption License Applications.