DLA Source Approval Request (SAR) Process

SAR vs Alternate Offer — which path do you need?

The four SAR package categories

Choose the category that matches your manufacturing history with the part. Each category requires a different combination of sections in the package.

Step-by-step SAR submission process

1. 1

   Determine the AMSC code on the NSN

   Look up the National Stock Number on DIBBs or in the FLIS record. SARs apply to parts coded AMSC B, C, or D. AMSC G parts are already full-and-open competition and do not require a SAR.

2. 2

   Select the appropriate package category

   Choose Category I (Actual Item), II (Similar Item), III (New Manufacturer), or IV (Reverse Engineered) based on your manufacturing history with the part. Each category has its own required sections.

3. 3

   Assemble the technical data package

   Build a single PDF containing the cover letter, table of contents, drawings, manufacturing plans, data certification (signed by a company officer), shipping documents, and category-specific sections (comparative analysis for Category II; reverse engineering plan for Category IV).

4. 4

   Submit the package

   Email the PDF to the appropriate DLA organization mailbox. The file must be named with the NSN and CAGE code, must be under 8 MB or use a DoD Safe Link, and must not be password-protected.

5. 5

   Receive acknowledgment and respond to clarifications

   The SAR/AO Monitor will log the submission and notify you of receipt. Engineering analysts and product specialists may request additional information; missing information extends the review timeline.

6. 6

   Receive the approval decision

   After 90–180 days (or longer for complex items), DLA will notify you of approval or rejection with explanation. Approval grants the right to compete on future procurements of that NSN; it does not guarantee contracts.

Where to submit

Frequently asked questions

• What is a Source Approval Request?

  A Source Approval Request (SAR) is a package of technical and quality information submitted by a prospective new supplier to the Defense Logistics Agency to become an approved source for a National Stock Number (NSN). SARs apply to parts that are not currently procured under full-and-open competition — typically those coded AMSC B (source-controlled), AMSC C (engineering source approval required), or AMSC D (CAGE & part number restricted).

• What is the difference between a SAR and an Alternate Offer?

  A Source Approval Request can be submitted at any time and is evaluated against the NSN itself, granting future-procurement eligibility if approved. An Alternate Offer (AO) is submitted against a specific active solicitation; the solicitation number must be in the package. Alternate Offers submitted against automated solicitations (those with 'T' or 'U' in the 9th position of the solicitation number) will not be considered for instant procurement — only future requirements.

• How long does the SAR review take?

  DLA states the review process generally takes a minimum of 90 days, and possibly up to 180 days or longer depending on technical complexity, package quality, and other factors. Reviews take longer if the package has missing information that needs to be clarified.

• What are the SAR package categories?

  There are four categories: Category I (Actual Item) for suppliers who have made the exact part within the last 3–5 years; Category II (Similar Item) for suppliers who have made similar items and possess the OEM's technical data; Category III (New Manufacturer) for suppliers who legally possess the technical data but have not previously manufactured the item; and Category IV (Reverse Engineered) for suppliers who do not possess the technical data and are submitting via reverse engineering at their own expense.

• Does SAR approval guarantee a contract?

  No. Becoming an approved source only grants the opportunity to compete and supply the item. It does not guarantee future contracts, orders, or any specific level of financial commitment. Approval simply makes you eligible to bid on future procurements of that NSN.

• Where do I submit a SAR?

  SARs are submitted to the appropriate DLA organization based on the commodity: DLA Land and Maritime (dsccao-sar@dla.mil), DLA Aviation (dlaavnsmallbus@dla.mil), or DLA Troop Support (TrpSptCandE-sar@dla.mil). Submissions must be a single PDF file named with the NSN and CAGE code; password-protected files are not accepted.