What are the requirements for a provisional patent application cover sheet?

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.

A provisional patent application requires a cover sheet with specific identifying information. According to the MPEP:

“A cover sheet providing identifying information is required for a complete provisional application. In accordance with 37 CFR 1.51(c)(1) the cover sheet must state that it is for a provisional application, it must identify and give the residence of the inventor or inventors, and it must give a title of the invention.”

The cover sheet must include:

• Statement that it is for a provisional application
• Inventor(s) identification and residence
• Title of the invention
• Name and registration number of the attorney or agent (if applicable)
• Docket number (if applicable)
• Correspondence address
• Statement regarding federally sponsored research or development (if applicable)
• Name of the government agency and contract number (if developed under a government contract)

For more details on provisional application requirements, refer to MPEP § 201.04.