What is the difference between MPEP and TMEP?

The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) and the Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure (TMEP) are separate guides for different intellectual property rights. The MPEP covers patent-related procedures, while the TMEP focuses on trademark procedures. This distinction is evident in MPEP 1002.02(i), which redirects trademark-specific information to the TMEP: “Petitions relating to Trademarks are covered in Chapter 1700 of the Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure.” This separation ensures that practitioners have specialized guidance for each type of intellectual property.

To learn more:

• MPEP
• TMEP
• Patent Procedures
• Trademark Procedures