Free NAICS Code Lookup Tool

What is a NAICS Code?

NAICS stands for North American Industry Classification System. It is a standardized system used by the United States, Canada, and Mexico to classify businesses by their primary type of economic activity. Every federal contract solicitation includes a NAICS code that determines which businesses are eligible to bid.

Each NAICS code is a six-digit number. The first two digits identify the broad economic sector, and each additional digit narrows the classification. For example:

• 54 = Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• 541 = Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (subsector)
• 5415 = Computer Systems Design and Related Services
• 54151 = Computer Systems Design and Related Services (industry)
• 541511 = Custom Computer Programming Services

Why NAICS Codes Matter for Government Contracting

NAICS codes serve three critical functions in government contracting:

1. Eligibility: Contracting officers assign a NAICS code to each solicitation. Your business must operate in that industry to be eligible to bid.
2. Size standards: Each NAICS code has an SBA size standard that determines whether your company qualifies as a "small business" for that contract. Size standards are based on annual revenue or number of employees and vary by industry.
3. SAM.gov registration: When you register in SAM.gov, you list your NAICS codes. Agencies use these codes to search for qualified vendors.

How to Choose Your NAICS Codes

Most businesses list between two and five NAICS codes. Choose codes that accurately describe the work you currently perform. Your primary NAICS code should represent the activity that generates the most revenue.

Use this tool to search by keyword, then cross-reference with government contract awards to see which codes agencies actually use when buying services like yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my NAICS code?

Type a description of your business activity into the search box above. Review the matching codes and read each description carefully. You can also study past federal contract awards to see which NAICS codes agencies use for work similar to yours.

How many NAICS codes should I list?

Two to five codes is typical. Only list codes for work you actively perform. Do not list aspirational codes for services you hope to offer someday.

What is an SBA size standard?

The SBA (Small Business Administration) sets revenue or employee thresholds for each NAICS code. If your business falls below the threshold, you qualify as "small" for contracts under that code. This matters for small business set-aside contracts.

Can I change my NAICS codes?

Yes. You can update your NAICS codes in SAM.gov at any time. Update them whenever your business activities change significantly.

Where can I research contracts by NAICS code?

Use our contract search to filter federal awards by NAICS code. You can also browse specific NAICS code pages like 541511 (Computer Programming) or 541330 (Engineering Services) to see spending data, top agencies, and recent awards.