What is the U.S. Patent Classification System (USPC)?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. The U.S. Patent Classification System (USPC) is a system used for organizing and categorizing patents and patent applications. According to MPEP 902.01 , “The U.S. Patent Classification System is a static system and is no longer updated for the utility classes. The USPC remains active for the plant and design classes.” The system consists of classes and subclasses, each with descriptive titles and unique identifiers. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Manual for U.S. Patent Classification System Is Maintained Electronically MPEP 902.01 Manual of Classification No Longer Updated After December 31, 2014 MPEP 902.01 Manual for US Patent Classification System Available to Personnel MPEP 902.01 Each Class Has Descriptive Title and Subclasses MPEP 902.01 Manual of Classification for USPC System Parts Required MPEP 902.01 Recommended Classification Orders Affect Existing Definitions MPEP 902.02 Recommended Examiner Definitions Must Be Updated Periodically MPEP 902.02 Recommended Classification Orders Available Online for USPTO Personnel MPEP 902.02 Classification Home Page Must Be Accessible via Toolkit MPEP 902.02 Subclass Must Have Integral Number MPEP 902.01 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How is the Manual of Classification for the USPC structured? Is the U.S. Patent Classification System still being updated? How are classes and subclasses identified in the USPC? How can patent examiners access the Classification Home Page? How can I access the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system?