What information is available on the USPTO Classification Home Page?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27
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 USPTO Classification Home Page provides a wealth of information for both examiners and the public. According to MPEP 902.03(b), the site includes:
- Index, schedules, and definitions
- Links to international information (CPC schedules, IPC Concordance, IPC Schedules, IPC Catchword Index)
- WIPO Handbook on Industrial Property Information and Documentation
- National (U.S.) information (Overview of the Classification System, Classification Guides and Bulletins)
- Patent Classification Search Page
The MPEP states, “Examiners and the public are provided with access to identical information for the Index, schedules, and definitions.” This ensures transparency and consistency in patent classification resources.