Code of Federal Regulations Title 43. Public Lands:  Interior § 43.3120.2–2 Dating of leases

All competitive leases shall be considered issued when signed by the authorized officer. Competitive leases, except future interest leases issued under § 3120.7 of this title, shall be effective as of the first day of the month following the date the leases are signed on behalf of the United States. A lease may be made effective on the first day of the month within which it is issued if a written request is made prior to the date of signature of the authorized officer. Leases for future interest shall be effective as of the date the mineral interests vest in the United States.