The export of equipment and information including technical data, software and hardware is controlled by federal regulations such as the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Information such as brochures, proposals, site visits and technical discussions are deemed "technical data." Exporting information or talking to a foreign sponsor (either in the U.S. or abroad) about certain types of technical data which may have a possible military application requires a State Department export license, which may take up to three months to obtain. Exporting information or a commodity which does not have significant military application usually requires obtaining one or more of the following: an assurance which precludes reexport; supporting documentation; or a Commerce Department export license. Export of some items to certain countries and some types of subcontracts with those countries are prohibited altogether.