How long is the term of a design patent in the United States?
According to MPEP 2950, design patents in the United States are granted for a term of 15 years from the date of grant. This is explicitly stated in 35 U.S.C. 173:
“Patents for designs shall be granted for the term of 15 years from the date of grant.”
This represents an extension from the previous term of 14 years, as noted in the Senate Executive Report cited in the MPEP.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2900 - International Design Applications,
MPEP 2950 - Grant Of Protection Only Upon Issuance Of Patent; Term Of Design Patent,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure