This standard defines the format and structure of data elements and the overall code necessary to provide a form of identification of location entities for the purpose of efficient information exchange. It also provides for instances of codes to represent geographical locations (e.g. cities, towns, and communities) within the states and territories of the United States and the provinces and territories of Canada, as well as in other countries and unique designations. This standard also provides information for the assignment of these codes. The provision of instances of the remaining data elements in the overall location code is also described. The remaining data elements needed to complete the assignment of unique location codes are administered by the maintenance agent in concert with its licensed customers. This standard is based on the description and assigned values of CLLI codes that are widely used in the industry. (COMMON LANGUAGE is a registered trademark and CLLI is a registered trademark of Telcordia Technologies, Inc.)