Public Domain Status

Common copyright trap

Are United States government works free to use?

Works prepared by United States federal employees as part of their official duties are generally not protected by United States copyright. State, local, contractor and foreign rights require separate checks.

Reviewed 2026-09-11. Jurisdiction and edition matter.

Layered answer

Check each right separately

01

Federal employee work

The United States government work rule generally applies in the United States.

02

Contractors

A contractor's work does not automatically become a federal government work.

03

Other countries

Other countries can protect the same material.

Sources

Commercial use?

Verify the exact material and intended country with qualified counsel.