FAR 52.105—Procedures for using alternates.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 52.105 explains how to use alternates to FAR provisions and clauses when the standard text needs a prescribed variation. It covers what an alternate is, where alternates are identified in the FAR, how to cite the date of an alternate together with the basic provision or clause, how to cite multiple alternates when more than one applies, and the strict rule that an alternate may only be used with the specific provision or clause for which it is prescribed. In practice, this section matters because it controls the exact wording that becomes part of a solicitation or contract and prevents accidental use of the wrong clause language. For contracting officers, it is a formatting and compliance rule that affects incorporation by reference and full-text inclusion alike. For contractors, it helps ensure they can identify precisely which version of a provision or clause applies and avoid confusion about rights, obligations, or evaluation requirements. The section exists to preserve consistency across federal procurement while still allowing controlled variations where the FAR authorizes them.
Key Rules
Alternates are prescribed variations
An alternate is a major variation of a provision or clause that the FAR specifically authorizes. The FAR text where the provision or clause is prescribed will identify any available alternates, labeled Alternate I, Alternate II, Alternate III, and so on.
Cite the basic text and alternate date
When an alternate is used, the solicitation or contract must cite the date of the basic provision or clause and the date of the alternate. This makes clear exactly which version is incorporated and avoids ambiguity about the governing language.
Multiple alternates may be combined
If a provision or clause is authorized to be used with two or more alternates, each applicable alternate must be cited. This requirement applies whether the text is incorporated by reference or included in full text.
No cross-application of alternates
An alternate may only be used with the specific provision or clause for which it is prescribed. It cannot be transferred, borrowed, or applied to any other provision or clause, even if the language seems similar.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officer
Identify whether the FAR prescribes an alternate for the provision or clause being used, cite the basic provision or clause date together with the correct alternate date(s), and ensure the alternate is applied only to the authorized provision or clause.
Agency
Follow FAR prescription requirements when developing solicitations and contract templates, and ensure internal forms, templates, and clause libraries reflect the correct alternate structure and citations.
Contractor
Review the solicitation or contract to confirm which basic provision or clause and which alternate(s) apply, and rely on the cited dates and titles to understand the exact requirements in effect.
Practical Implications
Always verify the exact clause title and dates before issuing or signing a solicitation or contract, because the alternate must match the prescribed provision or clause exactly.
Do not assume an alternate from one clause can be reused in another clause with similar wording; FAR 52.105 expressly forbids cross-application.
When multiple alternates apply, cite all of them clearly to avoid disputes over which requirements were intended to govern.
This rule applies whether the clause is inserted in full text or incorporated by reference, so citation accuracy matters in both formats.
A common pitfall is omitting the alternate date or citing only the alternate without the basic clause date, which can create ambiguity and compliance problems.
Official Regulatory Text
(a) The FAR accommodates a major variation in a provision or clause by use of an alternate. The FAR prescribes alternates to a given provision or clause in the FAR subject text where the provision or clause is prescribed. The alternates to each provision or clause are titled "Alternate I," "Alternate II," "Alternate III," etc. (b) When an alternate is used, its date shall be cited along with the date of the basic provision or clause; e.g., 52.209-3 First Article Approval-Contractor Testing (Oct 1983) -Alternate I (Dec 1983) . (c) Under certain circumstances, a provision or clause may be used with two or more alternates. In these circumstances, each of the applicable alternates shall be cited, whether incorporated by reference or in full text; e.g., 52.209-3 First Article Approval-Contractor Testing (Oct 1983) -Alternate I (Dec 1983) and Alternate II (Feb 1984) . However, under no circumstances may an alternate to a specific provision or clause be applied to any other provision or clause.