How does the USPTO retrieve priority documents through PDX?

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.

The USPTO retrieves priority documents through the Priority Document Exchange (PDX) program upon request from the applicant. As stated in MPEP 215.02(a), ‘If the applicant requests retrieval of the priority document through the PDX program, the USPTO will attempt to retrieve the document.’ The process involves:

• The applicant making a request for retrieval
• The USPTO accessing the electronic system of the participating office
• Retrieving the priority document if available
• Adding the retrieved document to the application file

This streamlined process eliminates the need for applicants to manually obtain and submit priority documents from other participating patent offices.