Learn how to create effective, understandable documents for publication in the Federal Register.

Document Drafting Handbook

The Document Drafting Handbook is intended to help agencies prepare documents for publication in the Federal Register.

Current Edition

New "ADDRESSES" Template — required in documents that request comments.
Supplement 2, May 1, 2004:
Corrections to a Rule — amends when and how a rule can be corrected.
ASCII | PDF
Supplement 4, March 9, 2006:
Amendatory Language: Stays and Suspensions — discusses the terms "Stay" and "Suspend."
ASCII | PDF
Supplement 5, October 23, 2006:
Frequently Asked Questions: Where do I deliver my document? — updates the Office of the Federal Register's mailing address.
ASCII | PDF