Free DPA template overview

Data Processing Agreement template

A data processing agreement sets controller and processor roles for personal data: what is processed, for how long, with what security, and how sub-processors and audits work.

Sample DPA outline with placeholders. Align final language to the laws and transfer tools that apply to your processing.

DATA PROCESSING AGREEMENT

This Data Processing Agreement (the "Agreement") is entered into as of [Effective Date], by and between [Party A], [Entity Type], with an address at [Address] ("Party A"), and [Party B], [Entity Type], with an address at [Address] ("Party B").

1. Roles. Customer acts as [Controller/Processor] and Provider acts as [Processor/Sub-processor] with respect to Customer Personal Data.

2. Details of processing. Processing concerns [Categories of Data Subjects] and [Types of Personal Data] for the purpose of [Processing Purpose] for [Duration].

3. Security. Provider shall implement appropriate technical and organizational measures described in [Security Schedule].

4. Sub-processors. Provider may engage sub-processors listed in [Sub-processor List] and will impose data-protection terms no less protective than this DPA.

5. Return or deletion. Upon termination, Provider will return or delete Customer Personal Data within [Deletion Period], subject to legal retention requirements.

Party A: [Party A] By: ________________________________ Name: [Signatory] Title: [Title]

Party B: [Party B] By: ________________________________ Name: [Signatory] Title: [Title]

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Keep the raw template if you like editing in Word. Or use Formable's free contract creator for guided clause choices and a filled-in draft from the same template—no paid plan required.

FAQ

  • Is a DPA the same as a privacy policy?

    No. A privacy policy explains practices to individuals. A DPA is a contract between organizations about how personal data is processed.

Sources: GDPR.eu: What is a data processing agreement?; ICO: Contracts between controllers and processors

Next step for your DPA

Download the placeholder file, or create a filled-in draft with the free contract creator—party names, purpose, and governing terms included.

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