What are the signature requirements for papers filed in a patent application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. According to 37 CFR 11.18(a) , all documents filed in the USPTO for patent matters must bear a signature, with some exceptions: Documents that are required to be signed by the applicant or party do not need a practitioner’s signature. For all other documents, each piece of correspondence filed by a practitioner must be personally signed or have their signature inserted in compliance with 37 CFR 1.4(d) . The MPEP states: “37 CFR 11.18(a) emphasizes that every paper filed by a practitioner must be personally signed by the practitioner, except those required to be signed by the applicant or party.” Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Appointment Must Be In Writing Signed By Applicant MPEP 2911 Required Request Required to Associate Customer Number with International Application MPEP 1809 Required All Patent Matters Including Design Patents MPEP 402 Permitted Attorney Must Be Authorized for Type of Patent Matter MPEP 402 Required Design Patent Practitioner Must Indicate Status Adjacent to Signature MPEP 1502.02 Required Limited Recognition for Patent Practitioners MPEP 402.01 Prohibited Limited Recognition for Patent Practitioners MPEP 402.09 Prohibited Design Patent Practitioner Admission Requirements Modified MPEP 1502.02 Required Attorney or Agent Required for International Applications MPEP 1807 Permitted Attorney or Agent Must Represent International Applicants MPEP 1808 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can individuals with limited recognition file documents in patent applications? How does the USPTO handle conflicting powers of attorney in a patent application? How does the USPTO handle conflicting instructions from multiple representat...