How can I schedule an interview with a patent examiner?

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.

To schedule an interview with a patent examiner, you can follow these steps:

1. Use the USPTO’s Automated Interview Request (AIR) Form at www.uspto.gov/patent/uspto-automated-interview-request-air-form.html (recommended).
2. Alternatively, contact the examiner by letter, facsimile, electronic mail, telephone, or using the “Applicant Initiated Interview Request” form (PTOL-413A).
3. Provide the following information:
   • Participants of the interview
   • Proposed date of the interview
   • Communication mode (e.g., personal, telephonic, or video conference)
   • Brief description of the issues to be discussed

As stated in MPEP 713.01: “An interview should be arranged in advance to insure that the primary examiner and/or the examiner in charge of the application will be available.”