The misconception about JCP and DLA bids

One of the biggest misconceptions new government contractors have is this:
“If I don’t have access to technical documents, I can’t bid.”

In the DIBBS space, this occurs frequently. Contractors see a solicitation with a link to tech docs and assume they’re out of the running. The reality? That’s simply not true.

What JCP certification does

JCP (Joint Certification Program) allows U.S. companies to access export-controlled technical data. With JCP, you can:

  • Download drawings from DLA’s tech doc website
  • Review prints, revisions, and provisions associated with an NSN
  • Get full visibility into how an item is designed

Having JCP is a big advantage because it opens the door to more opportunities—but it’s not a requirement to start bidding.

Can you bid without JCP? Yes.

The short answer: You do not need JCP certification to bid on DLA contracts.

Here’s how it works in practice:

  • If you don’t have JCP, find a manufacturer with JCP access.
  • Or, find a manufacturer who has already made the part before.

Either way, you can still submit your bid - even without access to the drawings yourself.

How to filter manufacturers quickly

Our process is simple:

  1. Send out an RFQ to multiple manufacturers.
  2. If they come back asking for a drawing, that tells us they haven’t made the part before (and likely don’t have JCP).
  3. Move on to the next.

The ones worth your time are the manufacturers that:

  • Already have JCP access, or
  • Already know the part because they’ve produced it before

These are the suppliers who make bidding possible without you holding JCP yourself.

What happens if you win a contract without JCP?

If you’re awarded the contract and the DLA determines that you’re not JCP certified, they may request whether you require access to the technical documents. But if your manufacturer already has experience or their own JCP access, you can still fulfill the order and deliver successfully.

When should you get JCP?

While you don’t need JCP to start, it’s smart to work toward it as you grow. Why?

  • It gives you direct access to controlled technical data.
  • It opens up many more opportunities where you don’t have to rely on someone else’s access.
  • It increases your credibility with both DLA and manufacturers.

Think of JCP as a growth step - not a starting barrier.

Key takeaway

Don’t let tech docs hold you back. You can start bidding on DLA contracts right now by:

  • Partnering with manufacturers who already have JCP
  • Working with suppliers who’ve made the part before
  • Building a system to filter out those who can’t help

Over time, add JCP certification to your toolbox. But don’t sit on the sidelines waiting - you can win awards today without it.

Ready to simplify your bidding process?

GovScraper pulls and organizes the newest RFQs, flags requirements like tech docs, and helps you focus on the opportunities you can win.

Book a demo today and see how GovScraper helps you bid smarter, faster, and with confidence.