How to Apply to Patent Your Invention

You’ve got the next great invention and you want to patent it. You can do this with a patent lawyer or the patent application process can be done directly though the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find out if your invention already has a patent. The US Patent Office has patent libraries across the United States where you can search for specific patents. To find a library in your area go to the USPTO website and search for a patent library in your state. There is also a searchable patent database online at USPTO, it’s not as extensive but it’s a good place to start.

2. Apply for your patent at the USPTO website in PDF form for a fee. You will be given a patent number receipt and an application receipt. Retain your copies. Or you can bring in your patent in person to the Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria, Virginia.

3. Find out the status of your application by calling the patent business center at 1-866-217-9197.

4. Be aware that it can take up to and over 2 years for your patent application to be completed. But your provisional application allows the use of the term ’patent pending’ for your invention.

Tips & Warnings

• The USPTO has a searchable list of patent lawyers in your area.

Resources

• United States Patent and Trademark Office

[yuanben]

on 12/15/2008 very good.welcome to communicate with me, a Chinese patent attorney. MSN: [e-mail]