Federal Contractor Readiness Guide
How to Get JCP Certification
Apply for Defense Logistics Agency Joint Certification Program (JCP) access using DD Form 2345 so your company can receive unclassified export-controlled technical data from the U.S. government and contractors.
What it is
The Joint Certification Program (JCP) certifies U.S. and Canadian contractors to receive unclassified militarily critical technical data covered by export-control rules. Certification is documented with DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement.
Who needs it
Manufacturers, contractors, and suppliers that need unclassified export-controlled technical data (drawings, specifications, manuals) to bid or perform on defense work, including many DLA and OEM supply chains.
Prerequisites
- Active SAM.gov registration with a valid CAGE code for the applying location
- U.S. or Canadian entity eligible under JCP rules
- Company officer authorized to sign DD Form 2345
Step-by-step process
- 1. Confirm JCP eligibility and data need
Review DLA JCP guidance to confirm your organization needs militarily critical technical data and qualifies as a U.S. or Canadian contractor under the program.
- 2. Complete DD Form 2345
Fill out DD Form 2345 with accurate company, CAGE, and certifying official information. The form is the certification instrument for JCP.
- 3. Submit the application through DLA JCP
Follow the current DLA JCP submission instructions (online or as published) for your DD Form 2345 package, including any required supporting documentation listed by DLA.
- 4. Maintain certification and SAM alignment
After approval, keep SAM.gov and CAGE data current. Renew or update certification when DLA instructions require it after changes in ownership, location, or certifying official.
Information and documents you need
- Legal company name and address matching SAM.gov
- CAGE code
- Certifying official name and title
- Completed DD Form 2345
- Supporting documents listed in current DLA JCP instructions
Cost
DLA JCP program materials do not describe a federal application fee for standard DD Form 2345 certification.
Typical processing time
Processing time varies; the official source does not publish a guaranteed completion timeframe.
Common mistakes
- Applying before SAM.gov and CAGE records are active and consistent
- Unsigned or outdated DD Form 2345 revisions
- Assuming JCP replaces SAM registration or SPRS cyber reporting
What happens after approval / completion
Approved contractors can receive qualifying unclassified technical data. Use JCP certification when DIBBS or OEM solicitations require export-controlled data access, and keep certifications current.
Official sources
- DLA — Joint Certification Program (primary)