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 assignment database accepts various types of documents related to patent ownership and interests. According to MPEP 302, recordable documents include:
- Assignments of patent rights
- Security interests (e.g., liens, mortgages)
- Licenses
- Releases
- Certificates of name changes
- Mergers
- Other documents affecting title to applications, patents, or registrations
The MPEP states: ‘Any document which relates to the title in a patent or patent application will be recorded as provided in 37 CFR 3.11.’ This broad definition allows for the recording of various ownership-related documents.
For more information on licenses, visit: licenses.
For more information on patent assignments, visit: patent assignments.
For more information on recordable documents, visit: recordable documents.
For more information on security interests, visit: security interests.
For more information on USPTO database, visit: USPTO database.