Imports are any resources, goods, or services that producers in one country sell to buyers in another country. Exports are any resources, intermediate goods, or final goods or services that a buyer in one country purchases from a seller in another country. In most cases you will not need a license to import goods into the U.S. But, for certain goods being imported, some agencies may require a license, permit, or other certification. Most items exported to a foreign buyer will not require an export license. But all items are subject to export control laws and regulations. The best way to find out if an item requires an export license is by checking which agency has jurisdiction over or regulates the item you are trying to export.

In Washington state, as in the rest of the United States, imports generally do not require a license unless they fall under specific categories that are regulated by government agencies. These categories can include, but are not limited to, food products, wildlife, certain chemicals, and firearms. Agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) may require permits or licenses for these regulated imports. As for exports, while many items can be sent to foreign buyers without a license, all exports are subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations. The need for an export license is determined by the nature of the item, its destination, the end user, and its intended use. The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) and the Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) are two key agencies that regulate exports. Exporters from Washington state should consult the relevant agency to determine if their goods require a license and to ensure compliance with all export control regulations.