How To Apply For a Patent

Determine the patent you need. A utility patent is for processes, machines, articles of manufacture, or compositions of matters. Design patents cover ornamental designs, and plant patents are for the asexual reproduction of any distinct and new variety of plant.

Follow the instructions to fill out and submit a provisional patent application. This establishes a filing date for your patent, and gives you 12 months to conduct record checks and gather documentation for a full patent application and examination.

Search on the USPTO’s web site or Google’s patent search (google.com/patents) for existing patents that may supersede your claims. If a prior claim exists, you will need to adjust your application to prove how your invention differs from previous patented innovations.

Submit the required documentation, drawings, and fees to the USPTO. You can submit many of these materials online.

Be patient. It may take several years for the patent office to process, review, and grant your patent. Once the process has been completed – and your patent approved – you will receive a document confirming your patent.