Who is authorized to sign amendments in patent applications?

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.

According to MPEP 714.01(a), amendments and other papers filed in a patent application must be signed by:

• A patent practitioner of record
• A patent practitioner not of record who acts in a representative capacity under the provisions of 37 CFR 1.34
• The applicant (as defined in 37 CFR 1.42)

It’s important to note that for juristic entities (e.g., corporations), all papers must be signed by a patent practitioner unless otherwise specified.

For applications filed before September 16, 2012, there are additional provisions allowing signatures from assignees and all applicants in certain circumstances.