How can I access patent application status information?

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.

Patent application status information is available through two main systems:

1. Patent Center: Provides information on issued patents, published patent applications, and applications to which a patented or published application claims domestic priority.
2. Private Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR): Allows secure tracking of unpublished patent applications for applicants or registered practitioners with power of attorney.

To access Private PAIR, you must associate a Customer Number with your application. As stated in the MPEP: Private PAIR makes available information relating to unpublished patent applications, but the applicant must associate a Customer Number with the application to obtain access.

For more information on Customer Number practice, refer to MPEP § 403.