Can I use color drawings in my patent application?

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.

Yes, you can use color drawings in your patent application, but they require special approval. According to MPEP 608.02:

‘Color drawings are permitted in design applications. Where a design application contains color drawings, the application must include the number of sets of color drawings required by 37 CFR 1.84(a)(2)(ii) and the specification must contain the reference required by 37 CFR 1.84(a)(2)(iii).’

For utility patent applications, color drawings are not ordinarily permitted. However, the USPTO will accept color drawings if:

• A petition under 37 CFR 1.84(a)(2) is filed
• The fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(h) is paid
• Three sets of color drawings or color photographs are submitted

The petition must explain why color drawings are necessary to accurately depict the invention.