Copyright Essentials: Copyright 101
Copyright Essentials: Copyright 101
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 1:00 p.m. eastern time
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Group Registration of Two-Dimensional Artwork (GR2D)
Group Registration of Two-Dimensional Artwork (GR2D)
Registration option now available
Search the Copyright Public Records System
Search the Copyright Public Records System
The Copyright Public Records System (CPRS) provides copyright registration and recordation data with advanced search capabilities, filters, and improved interfaces.
Intellectual Property Toolkits
Intellectual Property Toolkits
Our new toolkit can help you navigate the copyright registration system.
The Copyright Claims Board (CCB)
The Copyright Claims Board (CCB)
The CCB is available to resolve copyright disputes of up to $30,000 as an efficient, less expensive alternative to federal court.
United States Copyright Office Strategic Plan
2022–2026
United States Copyright Office Strategic Plan
2022–2026
Fostering Creativity and Enriching Culture
Onsite Service
Onsite Services in our Washington, DC, offices are available by appointment. To submit claims or discuss copyright-related matters, visit our Public Information Office by making an appointment. 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.
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Register Your Works
Register your work or learn more about the registration process with the Copyright Office.
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Recordation
Record transfers of copyright ownership and other documents pertaining to copyright for indexing into our public records.
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Copyright Law
View current Copyright Law of the United States and related laws contained in Title 17 of the U.S.Code.
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Quick Links
- Copyright and Artificial Intelligence
Learn about copyright and artificial intelligence
- Copyright Small Claims
Learn about the Copyright Claims Board
- Economic Research
Learn about economic research on copyright
- 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
- Continuous Development of IT Systems
Enhancing systems 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 Announces Copyright Essentials: Copyright 101 Webinar | June 23
- U.S. Copyright Office Announces Start of Tenth Triennial Rulemaking Proceeding Under Section 1201 | June 9
- U.S. Copyright Office Issues Final Rule Redesignating Mechanical Licensing Collective and Digital Licensee Coordinator Under the Music Modernization Act | June 3
- U.S. Copyright Office Proposes an Amendment to the Group Registration Option for Updates to News Websites | May 28
- U.S. Copyright Office Issues a Notice of Inquiry on Possible Alternative Fee Structures for ECS Registration | March 26
- News archive
Intellectual Property Toolkits
Intellectual property (IP) protects creations of the mind, and copyright is one type of IP.
The Copyright Registration Toolkit is a visual breakdown of copyright, including essential information about copyright law, how to prepare for copyright registration, what to expect during the process, and post-registration considerations.
Download the U.S. Copyright Office’s toolkit along with toolkits on trademarks, patents, and trade secrets developed by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Learn more