How can I obtain copies of published patent applications?

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 obtain copies of published patent applications, you can follow these steps:

1. Submit a request under 37 CFR 1.14(a)(1)(ii) or (iii)
2. Pay the required fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.19(b)
3. Submit your request to the Patent and Trademark Copy Fulfillment Branch of the Public Records Division
4. Alternatively, submit your request electronically through the Certified Copy Center storefront

The MPEP states: “Any member of the public may submit a request under 37 CFR 1.14(a)(1)(ii) or (iii) and the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.19(b) to the Patent and Trademark Copy Fulfillment Branch of the Public Records Division or electronically through the Certified Copy Center storefront at https://certifiedcopycenter.uspto.gov/“

You can request:

• A complete file wrapper and contents
• A copy of a specific paper in the application
• An appropriately redacted copy if a redacted version was submitted for publication