What is the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system is a joint classification system developed by the USPTO and the EPO. As mentioned in MPEP 901.07:

“The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) is a bilateral system jointly developed by the USPTO and the EPO, which has been jointly managed since January 1, 2013.”

Key features of the CPC system include:

• A harmonized classification approach between the USPTO and EPO
• More detailed and comprehensive classification than previous systems
• Regular updates to reflect technological advancements
• Improved searchability and accessibility of patent documents

The CPC system helps patent examiners and researchers more effectively search and categorize patent documents across different patent offices.