How to Patent Technology

Obtain a patent for your technological invention so that others cannot profit from your hard work.

If you have invented a new piece of technology, obtaining a patent from the government gives you the right to manufacture and sell your invention exclusively. Patents are granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). There are three types of patents: utility, plant and design. Technological inventions generally fall into the utility category, which covers new processes, machinery or chemical innovations.

Instructions

1. Check the current patent database to see if your technology has already been patented by somebody else. You can search the database online (see Resources).

2. Register with the USPTO and obtain a customer number. A customer number is required to access the online patent application system. Fax the completed request form to the USPTO Electronic Business Center at 571-273-0177 (see Resources).

3. Request a digital certificate. This will enable you to log in to the online application system with total security. Download the form at the USPTO website, print and fill it out, then mail it to:

   Mail Stop EBC Customer Number

   Commissioner for Patents

   P.O. Box 1450
   
Alexandria VA 22313-1450

   See Resources for an electronic copy of the form.

4. File your patent application online. The USPTO uses an online system called EFS Web. Enter the details issued with your digital certificate to gain access and complete the application.

5. Pay the required issuance fees once you receive approval of your patent. For a standard utility patent, the fees total $1,810. If you wish to pay with a credit card, you can pay online. Otherwise, you can pay via check or money order, payable to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office:

   U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
   P.O. Box 979070

   St. Louis, MO 63197-9000


Tips & Warnings

• Consider hiring a lawyer who specializes in patents. A lawyer is not legally necessary to file the patent, but an experienced lawyer can be of great help during the patent application process.

References

• USPTO: Process for Obtaining a Utility Patent

Resources

• USPTO: Patent Database
• USPTO: Customer Number Request Form
• USPTO: Obtain a Digital Certificate
• USPTO: EFS Web
• USPTO: Check the Filing Status of Your Patent Application