How to Get the NFL's Permission to Sell NFL Merchandise

Permission is required to use official NFL and team logos.

Anyone who wants to sell National Football League merchandise must first register with New York-based NFL Properties LLC (NFLP), which licenses and markets team logos and trademarks. The application process is straightforward. There are no guarantees, however, that an application will be approved. Certain criteria must be met before NFL Properties, which operates as a subsidiary of the NFL, will even consider an application.

Things You'll Need

• Internet connection

Instructions

1. Review pre-qualification agreement terms and conditions established by the NFLP to determine eligibility. These requirements include three years of manufacturing or distribution experience; manufacturing rights of any products that need to be licensed; a registered business license; financial backing; and insurance coverage.

2. Assemble the required documentation. Include a current annual report; two years of audited tax returns and financial statements; a current product catalog; and a letter of reference from a bank or similar financial institution. These documents should include preparer contact information in case the NFLP needs to verify the information provided.

3. Download and fill out the pre-qualification form by pressing the "I Agree" button under the pre-qualification terms and conditions box from step 1. Complete all required fields and use "Not Applicable" when the information does not apply.

4. Scan the completed form and additional required documents. E-mail the documents to [e-mail]. The NFL will verify receipt of the petition and will confirm approved applications within 90 days. Denied applicants will not be notified. Approved applicants will receive further instructions from the NFLP.

5. Follow the new instructions provided by the NFLP to receive final approval. The directions will depend on the category of the items to be sold.

Tips & Warnings

• Denied applications can be resubmitted after one year.

• Give the preparers of the additional required documents express permission to answer any questions posed by the NFLP.

References

• NFLP Pre-Qualification Terms and Conditions