What is Copyright?
Learn about the basics of copyright with our new online reference page.
Onsite Services
Onsite Services in our offices in Washington, DC, are available by appointment and on a limited walk-in basis. To submit claims, request certified copies of certificates or copyright deposits, or request searches, visit our Public Information Office by making an appointment here. For visits to our Copyright Public Records Reading Room only, make an appointment here.
Features
Search Copyright Records
Search our online records, learn about our searching and retrieval services, and view educational videos and materials.
Learn MoreRegister Your Works
Register your work or learn more about the registration process with the Copyright Office.
Learn MoreRecordation
We accept certain types of documents for filing and indexing into our public records.
Learn MoreCopyright Law
View current Copyright Law of the United States and related laws contained in Title 17 of the U.S.Code.
Learn MoreQuick Links
- Coronavirus Updates
Operations updates during the COVID-19 pandemic
- U.S. Copyright Law
Title 17 of the U.S. Code
- Code of Federal Regulations
Title 37, Chapter II
- Compendium of U.S. Copyright Office Practices
Third Edition
- Copyright Modernization
Modernization efforts across the entire Office
- Music Modernization Act
Background and implementation steps
- Copyright Small Claims
Learn about the Copyright Claims Board
- Events
Upcoming Copyright Office public events
News
- Updates to List of Acceptable File Types | May 10
- Miriam DeChant Named Associate Register of Copyrights and Director of Public Information and Education | May 10
- U.S. Copyright Office Assigning New Deposit Account Numbers to Existing Account Holders | May 9
- Copyright Office Announces Request for Information on the Development and Use of Standard Technical Measures | April 27
- Copyright Office Issues Final Rule Clarification for Small Claims Expedited Registration Procedures and Final Rule Correction for Initiation of Proceedings and Related Procedures | April 22
- News archive
The Music Modernization Act
This featured video highlights The Orrin G. Hatch-Bob Goodlatte Music Modernization Act (Music Modernization Act) the most significant piece of copyright legislation in decades and updates our current laws to reflect modern consumer preferences and technological developments in the music marketplace.