How can I get a copyright?

To get a copyright, you simply need to create something which is entitled to copyright protection, and protection is then automatic. This means you simply need to create an original work and have that work fixed in a tangible medium. However, you do not need to publish or otherwise publicize the work - simply creating it and fixing it in a tangible medium creates copyright rights.

The Library of Congress, through the Copyright Office, accepts applications for the registration of a copyright. While registering a work is not necessary to be entitled to copyright protection, you should register anyway because registration entitles you to certain additional benefits.