FAR Overview Guide 2025: Federal Acquisition Regulation Explained
Complete overview of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Learn what the FAR is, its structure, key parts for contractors, and how to navigate government contracting regulations.
Quick Answer: What is the FAR?
The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is the primary set of rules governing how the federal government purchases goods and services. It covers everything from competition requirements to contract clauses to payment procedures. The FAR is found in Title 48 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
What is the FAR?
The FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) establishes uniform policies and procedures for acquisition by all executive agencies. It's the rulebook that governs how the government buys almost everything.
FAR Purpose
- ✓Ensure fair and open competition
- ✓Get best value for taxpayers
- ✓Maintain integrity in contracting
- ✓Provide uniform acquisition policies
FAR Structure
The FAR is organized into 53 parts, grouped into subchapters by topic.
Subchapter Organization
A: General (Parts 1-4)
Definitions, policies, planning
B: Competition (Parts 5-6)
Publicizing, competition requirements
C: Contracting Methods (Parts 12-18)
Simplified acquisition, sealed bidding, negotiations
D: Socioeconomic (Parts 19-26)
Small business, labor, foreign acquisition
E: General Contracting (Parts 27-33)
IP, bonds, protests, disputes
G-H: Contract Management (Parts 42-51)
Administration, modifications, termination
Key FAR Parts for Contractors
Part 12: Commercial Products
Simplified procedures for buying commercial items. Fewer clauses, faster procurements.
Part 15: Contracting by Negotiation
Competitive proposals, source selection, debriefings. How most complex contracts are awarded.
Part 19: Small Business Programs
Small business set-asides, 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB programs and requirements.
Part 31: Contract Cost Principles
Which costs are allowable and unallowable. Essential for cost-reimbursement contracts.
Part 52: Contract Clauses
Actual clause text. Referenced in contracts. Know the key clauses affecting your business.
Agency Supplements
Agencies can add to the FAR through supplements. The most common is the DFARS for Defense.
Major Supplements
DFARS
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
GSAM
GSA Acquisition Manual
HHSAR
HHS Acquisition Regulation
NFS
NASA FAR Supplement
Using the FAR Effectively
Access the FAR
- →acquisition.gov - Official source
- →eCFR - Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
- →FAR Search tools - Various commercial tools
Tips for Contractors
- ✓Focus on parts relevant to your work
- ✓Read clauses in your contracts carefully
- ✓Stay updated on FAR changes
- ✓Consult experts for complex situations
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know the entire FAR?
No. Focus on parts relevant to your business—contracting methods, your business size category, cost principles if applicable, and key clauses in your contracts.
How often does the FAR change?
Frequently. FAR rules are published in the Federal Register. Major changes require public comment periods. Subscribe to acquisition.gov updates.
What's the relationship between FAR and DFARS?
DFARS supplements the FAR for DoD contracts. It adds requirements beyond the FAR. For DoD work, you must comply with both FAR and DFARS.
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