What types of translations are available to patent examiners?

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.

Patent examiners have access to various types of translations:

1. Oral translations: For quick assistance with foreign patents or literature.
2. Human (written) translations: For pertinent portions of references being considered for citation.
3. Machine translations: Automated translations available through STIC’s tools.
4. Partial human translations: Available through walk-in services at the Translations Service Center.

The MPEP states: “Examiners may request human (written) translations at any point in the examination process, at the discretion of the individual examiner, but are encouraged to use oral assistance, language reference resources, and machine translations where possible in the early phases of examination.”