How can I add a custom post type with hierarchical categories in WordPress?

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Q&A Network · Accepted Answer

To add a custom post type with hierarchical categories in WordPress, you need to register both the custom post type and a custom taxonomy that supports hierarchy. This can be done using the `register_post_type` and `register_taxonomy` functions in your theme's `functions.php` file or a custom plugin.

function create_custom_post_type() {
        // Register Custom Post Type
        register_post_type('custom_post', array(
            'labels' => array(
                'name' => __('Custom Posts'),
                'singular_name' => __('Custom Post')
            ),
            'public' => true,
            'has_archive' => true,
            'supports' => array('title', 'editor', 'thumbnail'),
        ));

// Register Custom Taxonomy
        register_taxonomy('custom_category', 'custom_post', array(
            'hierarchical' => true,
            'labels' => array(
                'name' => __('Custom Categories'),
                'singular_name' => __('Custom Category')
            ),
            'show_ui' => true,
            'show_admin_column' => true,
            'query_var' => true,
            'rewrite' => array('slug' => 'custom-category'),
        ));
    }
    add_action('init', 'create_custom_post_type');

ADDITIONAL COMMENT:

Ensure you have the correct capabilities set if you need specific user roles to manage these custom post types and taxonomies.
  After adding this code, you may need to refresh your permalinks by visiting Settings → Permalinks in the WordPress dashboard.
  Consider using a child theme or a custom plugin to avoid losing changes during theme updates.

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How can I add a custom post type with hierarchical categories in WordPress?

Asked on Feb 19, 2026

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