Federal bids · 5 min read

SAM registration for construction contractors

To submit an offer on most federal construction solicitations, your company must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) at the time the bid or proposal is submitted. Registration includes a Unique Entity ID, representations and certifications, and must be renewed annually. Start well before a bid is due because registration and validation can take time.

Why SAM registration matters

FAR 4.1102 requires offerors to be registered in SAM at the time an offer or quotation is submitted, with limited exceptions. An expired or incomplete registration can stop an otherwise competitive bid.

What registration includes

  • A Unique Entity ID (UEI) assigned through SAM.gov.
  • Company details, ownership and banking information for payments.
  • Annual representations and certifications, including size status for relevant NAICS codes.
  • Points of contact for the entity.

Keep it active

Registrations must be renewed at least annually. Put the expiration date on the same calendar as bid due dates, and check status before every federal submission.

NAICS codes and size status

Set-aside opportunities depend on size standards tied to NAICS codes. Make sure the codes for your construction work are listed and your size representations are current.

Watch for scams

Registration on SAM.gov is free. Be cautious of third parties that charge fees while implying they are required.

How Bidmere helps

Bidmere includes SAM status and representations in the federal bid package checklist. Registration itself must be completed by your company on SAM.gov.

Common questions

Does SAM registration cost money?

No. Registration on SAM.gov is free.

Do subcontractors need SAM registration?

Requirements apply to offerors on the prime contract. Some primes or programs ask subcontractors to register, so check the contract.

How often must I renew?

At least once a year to keep the registration active.

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