What are the main components required in a nonprovisional patent application?

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.

A nonprovisional patent application filed under 35 U.S.C. 111(a) must include several key components. According to the MPEP, these include:

• A specification as prescribed by 35 U.S.C. 112
• A drawing as prescribed by 35 U.S.C. 113 (if necessary)
• An oath or declaration as prescribed by 35 U.S.C. 115
• The application filing fee

The MPEP states: Such application shall include— (A) a specification as prescribed by section 112; (B) a drawing as prescribed by section 113; and (C) an oath or declaration as prescribed by section 115.

It’s important to note that while claims and drawings are not required for obtaining a filing date (except for design applications), they are necessary for a complete application and must be submitted to avoid abandonment.

For more information on filing requirements, visit: filing requirements.

For more information on nonprovisional applications, visit: nonprovisional applications.

For more information on oath or declaration, visit: oath or declaration.

For more information on patent drawings, visit: patent drawings.