How do I request prioritized examination for a request for continued examination (PE-RCE)?
To request prioritized examination for an RCE (PE-RCE), the following conditions must be met: The application must be a non-reissue utility or plant nonprovisional application The publication fee must be paid The PE-RCE request must be filed before the first Office action after filing the RCE Only one PE-RCE request may be granted per application…
Read MoreWhat is prioritized examination?
Prioritized examination is a program that allows an application to be accorded special status and examined out of turn. The goal is to provide a final disposition within 12 months of prioritized status being granted. There are two types: ‘Track One’ for newly filed applications ‘PE-RCE’ for requests for continued examination As stated in the…
Read MoreHow many prioritized examination requests are accepted each year?
The USPTO limits the number of prioritized examination requests that can be accepted each fiscal year. The MPEP states: Until further notice, the Office will accept no more than 15,000 requests for prioritized examination in any fiscal year. This limit applies to both Track One (for new applications) and PE-RCE (for requests for continued examination)…
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