The Premier League's first match with a safe-standing section will take place on January 2 when Chelsea host Liverpool.
Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham, Chelsea and Cardiff will take part in a safe standing trial next year which marks the end of a blanket ban on standing in the top two tiers of English football since 1994.
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: 'I'm pleased to approve these five clubs as early adopters of licensed safe standing areas for the second half of the season.
'The time is now right to properly trial safe standing in the Premier League and EFL Championship ahead of a decision on a widespread roll-out.
'Safety is absolutely paramount and the SGSA (Sports Grounds Safety Authority) is working hand-in-glove with the clubs on this.
'Fans deserve different options on how they can enjoy a live match and I will be watching the progress of these trials with interest.'
Five clubs - including Manchester United - will take part in a safe standing trial from January 1
Manchester City are another top-flight side who installed rail seating for the current season
The pilot will be monitored by the independent firm CFE Research, and its findings will be provided to the Government for it to make a decision on a possible wider roll-out of safe standing for next season.
It is understood Liverpool did not apply to take part in the pilot, because they are already running their own trial with two areas of rail seating at Anfield.
The Merseyside club's current trial is only designed to allow safe standing at particular moments of
