Guidelines for Preparing and Reviewing Applications Under 10 CFR Part 57 — Draft Report for Comment (NUREG-2271)

This publication has been issued for public comment. Comments will be accepted until June 15, 2026. To submit comments, please see Docket ID Number NRC-20205-0379.

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Publication Information

Manuscript Completed: April 2026
Date Published: April 2026

Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Washington, DC 20555-0001

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Abstract

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has developed a proposed rule that would establish Part 57, “Licensing Requirements for Microreactors and Other Reactors with Comparable Risk Profiles,” in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The rule’s framework would support rapid licensing of first-of-a-kind microreactors and other reactors with comparable risk profiles and high-volume deployment of these reactors through multiple licensing pathways, including the option for a general license to construct parts of these facilities. The Part 57 framework is based on simplified safety requirements and maximizes the benefits of standardization. This guidance will assist in preparation and review of license applications under Part 57 for multiple types of microreactors and other reactors with comparable risk profiles in a risk-informed and performance-based manner.

This effort is consistent with, and implements direction in, the Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy Act of 2024 (Pub. L. 118-67, 138 Stat. 1448) and Executive Order 14300, “Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission” (90 FR 22587; May 29, 2025).

This guidance is not a substitute for NRC regulations, and compliance with it is not required. The approaches and methods provided are for information only. Methods and solutions that differ from those described in this document will be acceptable if supported by a sufficient basis and information for the NRC staff to verify that the alternative methods or solutions comply with the applicable NRC regulations.