FARFederal Acquisition Regulation

The Federal Acquisition Regulation is the primary set of rules governing federal government procurement.

Definition

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is the principal set of rules and procedures that federal executive agencies must follow when acquiring supplies and services with appropriated funds. Codified in Title 48 of the Code of Federal Regulations, the FAR establishes uniform policies and procedures for acquisition by all executive agencies. It covers the entire procurement process from planning through contract administration and closeout. The FAR is supplemented by agency-specific regulations such as the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) for Department of Defense procurements. Understanding the FAR is essential for any contractor doing business with the federal government, as it defines contractor rights, obligations, and the terms that will govern contract performance.

Also Known As

  • Federal Acquisition Regulations
  • FAR Clauses

Examples

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming FAR applies to state and local contracts (it does not)
  • Not checking agency supplements like DFARS that may add additional requirements
  • Ignoring FAR clause flow-down requirements to subcontractors

Who Should Know This Term

All federal contractors, contract administrators, proposal managers, and compliance officers

Official Source

Title 48 CFR