How to Become a Patent Agent
To become a patent agent that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) officially recognizes you will need a background and education in one of the technological fields the PTO considers acceptable for patent examiners. Plan on getting a bachelor's degree, at the very least. Expect to complete additional training and certifications along the way.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Access the official website for the PTO. Go to "Resources" and search for the document "USPTO General Requirements For Taking The Patent Bar."
-
2
Review the list of degrees and related fields for all categories. Check for any alternative training suggested in that field. Choose a field to focus on and the degrees that field requires to become a patent agent.
-
-
3
Get a bachelor's degree in the field you've chosen. Take any alternative training classes the PTO suggests.
-
4
Apply to become a patent agent under the correct category the PTO lists in its general requirements. Provide all necessary documentation to prove your skills in that field.
-
5
Make an appointment to take the Patent Bar Exam. Call Thomson Prometric at 1-800-479-6369 for the appointment. Study for the exam by getting copies of previous exams on the PTO's official website.
-
6
Gather proof for the PTO that you are either a citizen of the United States or a legal alien. Alternatively, prove that you are a foreign applicant in good standing who served in the patent office of your native country.
-
7
Expect to show proof to the PTO that you are a patent agent applicant "in good moral standing." Demonstrate that you are not a convicted felon and that you never pled guilty to a felony.
-
1
