What are the size and margin requirements for patent drawings?

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 size and margin requirements for patent drawings are specified in 37 CFR 1.84(f) and (g). Key requirements include:

• Sheet size: 21.0 cm x 29.7 cm (DIN size A4) or 21.6 cm x 27.9 cm (8 1/2 x 11 inches)
• Top margin: at least 2.5 cm (1 inch)
• Left side margin: at least 2.5 cm (1 inch)
• Right side margin: at least 1.5 cm (5/8 inch)
• Bottom margin: at least 1.0 cm (3/8 inch)

The usable surface (sight) should not exceed 17.0 cm x 26.2 cm on A4 size sheets or 17.6 cm x 24.4 cm on 8 1/2 x 11 inch sheets. Drawings must also include scan target points (cross-hairs) printed on two cater-corner margin corners.