74. What is an OFAC license?
An OFAC license is an authorization from OFAC to engage in transactions that otherwise would be prohibited by U.S. sanctions administered by OFAC.
There are two types of OFAC licenses: general licenses and specific licenses.
General License: A general license authorizes certain categories of transactions that would otherwise be prohibited pursuant to a particular sanctions program. OFAC general licenses are public and are "self-executing," meaning that persons who determine their transactions meet the terms and conditions as described in the general license, do not require further authorization from OFAC. Some general licenses can be found within OFAC's implementing regulations for the relevant sanctions program, while other general licenses can be found on the relevant Sanctions Programs and Country Information page on OFAC's website.
Specific License: A specific license is a non-public document issued by OFAC to a particular individual or entity, authorizing a particular transaction in response to a license application. For guidance on how to apply for a specific license, please see 31 CFR § 501.801, the OFAC Specific Licenses and Interpretive Guidance page on OFAC's website, and the OFAC Licenses FAQ topic page on OFAC's website.
Please note that persons engaging in transactions pursuant to general or specific licenses must comply with all license terms, including conditions and recordkeeping and reporting requirements, as applicable.
Date Updated: September 9, 2026
Date Released
June 16, 2016
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74. What is a license?
A license is an authorization from OFAC to engage in a transaction that otherwise would be prohibited. There are two types of licenses: general licenses and specific licenses.
A general license authorizes a particular type of transaction for a class of persons without the need to apply for a license.
A specific license is a written document issued by OFAC to a particular person or entity, authorizing a particular transaction in response to a written license application.
Persons engaging in transactions pursuant to general or specific licenses must make sure that all conditions of the licenses are strictly observed.
OFAC's regulations may contain statements of OFAC's specific licensing policy with respect to particular types of transactions.
Click here to apply for a license.
Date Released
June 16, 2016
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74. What is a license?
A license is an authorization from OFAC to engage in a transaction that otherwise would be prohibited. There are two types of licenses: general licenses and specific licenses.
A general license authorizes a particular type of transaction for a class of persons without the need to apply for a license.
A specific license is a written document issued by OFAC to a particular person or entity, authorizing a particular transaction in response to a written license application.
Persons engaging in transactions pursuant to general or specific licenses must make sure that all conditions of the licenses are strictly observed.
OFAC's regulations may contain statements of OFAC's specific licensing policy with respect to particular types of transactions. [06-16-06]
[9-9-26 Update – amended to provide further detail consistent with the RPPR’s description of general and specific licenses ]
1) FAQ amended in 2016 to add "Click here to apply for a license."