A multi-planar taper lock screw configured to have a slidable outer housing over an inner housing containing a spherically configured, pivotable screw head and a removable spinal rod wherein the outer housing can be selectively positioned to fully lock the screw head and the spinal rod in position within the inner housing or can be selectively positioned to lock only the screw head in position while permitting a sliding and rotating motion of the spinal rod about its long axis within the inner housing.