Getting a Copyright

This section explains how copyright protection arises and the process and benefits of registering a work with the U.S. Copyright Office.

When the Work is Created: Automatic Copyright Protection

• Copyright Protection is Automatic Upon Creation
• Using a Copyright Notice
• How Long Does Copyright Protection Last?
• Copyright Pointers

When the Work is Registered: Extra Copyright Protection

• Copyright Registration Basics
• Copyright Registration, Notice, and Enforcement FAQ

Registering Specific Types of Work

• Literary Works
• Visual Art Works
• Performing Art Works
• Sound Recordings
• Periodicals, Newspapers, and Magazines
• Architectural Works (U.S. Copyright Office)

Guide to Registering a Copyright

• The Copyright Registration Procedure
• Current Registration Fees (U.S. Copyright Office)
• Special Deposit Requirements (for certain types of work)
• Make Sure Your Application Will Be Acceptable
• Application Forms (U.S. Copyright Office)
• Effective Date of Registration
• Special Handling of Registration
• Renewing a Copyright