What are the requirements for a patent application title?
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 title of a patent application is an important element that should be carefully reviewed. MPEP 1302.01 outlines the following requirements for patent application titles:
- Length:
The title may not exceed 500 characters in length
- Specificity: The title
must be as short and specific as possible
- Descriptiveness:
The title should be descriptive of the invention claimed, even though a longer title may result
If the applicant doesn’t provide a satisfactory title, the examiner has the authority to change it on or after allowance. For more detailed information on titles, refer to MPEP § 606 and § 606.01.
The title plays a crucial role in quickly conveying the subject matter of the invention, so it’s important to ensure it meets these requirements during the general review of disclosure.