CFR (Code of Federal Regulations)
Last reviewed · By Chad Griffith
The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is the codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the executive departments and agencies of the United States federal government. It is divided into 50 titles representing broad areas subject to federal regulation. Each title is divided into chapters, parts, sections, and paragraphs. Citations follow the format: Title CFR Part Section. For example, '49 CFR 391.43' refers to Title 49 (Transportation), Part 391 (Driver Qualifications), Section 391.43 (Medical examinations). The official source is eCFR.gov, updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I read a CFR citation?
A CFR citation has four parts: Title, CFR, Part, Section. Example: '29 CFR 1910.147' means Title 29 (Labor), Part 1910 (General Industry), Section 147 (Lockout/Tagout). Subsections add letters and numbers: '29 CFR 1910.147(c)(1)' is a specific paragraph within the LOTO standard.
What is the difference between USC, CFR, and Federal Register?
USC (United States Code) contains laws passed by Congress. CFR contains regulations issued by federal agencies under authority granted by those laws. Federal Register is the daily publication of proposed rules, final rules, and notices — once a final rule takes effect, it is incorporated into CFR. Regulations in CFR have the same legal effect as statutes in USC.
Which CFR titles regulate compliance for my industry?
Common operational compliance titles: Title 21 (Food and Drugs — FDA, DEA), Title 29 (Labor — OSHA, EBSA), Title 40 (Protection of Environment — EPA), Title 42 (Public Health — CMS, HHS), Title 45 (Public Welfare — HIPAA), Title 49 (Transportation — FMCSA, FAA, PHMSA, NHTSA), Title 14 (Aeronautics and Space — FAA).
How often does the CFR change?
Individual sections can change at any time when a federal agency issues a final rule. The full CFR is officially revised annually, with each title revised on a specific schedule (e.g., Title 49 is revised October 1). The Electronic CFR (eCFR.gov) is updated daily and reflects the most current version. Compliance teams should monitor agency Federal Register notices for upcoming changes.
Authoritative sources
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