How are application numbers assigned by the USPTO?
The USPTO assigns application numbers to patent applications immediately after mail has been opened. According to MPEP 503, application numbers consist of a series code and a serial number. The series codes are assigned based on the type of application and the time period in which it was filed. For example:
- 01/ – 16/ for nonprovisional applications (utility, plant, and reissue), with different ranges for specific time periods
- 29/ for design applications
- 35/ for international design applications
- 60/, 61/, and 62/ for provisional applications
- 90/ for ex parte reexamination proceedings
- 95/ for inter partes reexamination proceedings
- 96/ for supplemental examination proceedings and resulting ex parte reexamination proceedings
The MPEP notes: “If an application is filed using the USPTO patent electronic filing system, EFS-Web provides an Acknowledgement Receipt that contains a time and date stamp, an application number and a confirmation number.”
It’s important to note that the application number on a filing receipt is the official number, which may differ from any preliminary number provided on a postcard receipt.
For more information on application number, visit: application number.
For more information on patent application types, visit: patent application types.
For more information on serial number, visit: serial number.
For more information on series code, visit: series code.