What is Copyright?
Learn about the basics of copyright with our new online reference page.
Onsite Service
Onsite Services in our offices in Washington, DC, are available by appointment. To submit claims, request certified copies of certificates or copyright deposits, or request searches, visit our Public Information Office by making an appointment here. Copyright Office Reading Room services are available in the James Madison Memorial Building, room LM-463.
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
Record transfers of copyright ownership and other documents pertaining to copyright for 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
- Copyright and Artificial Intelligence
Learn about copyright and artificial intelligence
- Copyright Small Claims
Learn about the Copyright Claims Board
- 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
- Engage Your Creativity
Resources for creators
- Events
Upcoming Copyright Office public events
News
- U.S. Copyright Office Extends Deadline for Reply Comments on its Rulemaking on Termination Rights and the Music Modernization Act | November 16
- U.S. Copyright Office Extends Deadline for Reply Comments on Artificial Intelligence Notice of Inquiry | November 15
- U.S. Copyright Office Issues Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Ninth Triennial Proceeding Under Section 1201 | October 19
- U.S. Copyright Office Extends Deadline for Reply Comments on its Rulemaking on Access to Electronic Works | October 18
- U.S. Copyright Office Extends Deadline for Comments on its Rulemaking on Termination Rights and the Music Modernization Act | October 11
- 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.