An official website of the United States government Here’s how you know keyboard_arrow_down An official website of the United States government Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. The site is secure. A lock ( lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. United States Patent and Trademark Office Why should I protect my intellectual property? chevron_right Protect your ideas, inventions, and technological breakthroughs. From utility, design, and plant patents, we guide you through every step of the application process. Get started with patents chevron_right Protect your brand. Registering your trademark lets the public know it's federally protected and gives you the tools to defend it. We'll guide you through the process. Get started with trademarks chevron_right Learn about America's spirit of innovation. Learn more chevron_right Take our quick assessment to see whether your ideas may qualify for intellectual property protection and find out how to protect them. Identify your intellectual property chevron_right Before you apply, search our databases to make sure your invention or brand can be federally protected. Before filing, use our Patent Public Search tool to identify similar patents and published applications already in use. Search existing patents chevron_right Trademark Search Before filing, search our trademark database to find similar trademarks that could affect your chances of registration​. Search existing trademarks chevron_right Apply for a patent Submit your patent application online with our step-by-step guidance. Protect your inventions and innovations. Apply to register a trademark File your trademark application online with our step-by-step process to federally protect your brand. Create a USPTO.gov account Setting up a USPTO.gov account gives you access to file patent and trademark applications, track your submissions, and manage your intellectual property all in one secure place. Application Status Check the status of your patent application or trademark registration. Check status of patent chevron_right Check status of trademark chevron_right

Learn how to spot them and protect your intellectual property. Patent scams chevron_right Trademark scams chevron_right Access our free services Find free USPTO guidance, education and support services. Intellectual property basic toolkits Explore beginner-friendly IP toolkits covering patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Training and events Join USPTO webinars, workshops, and events to learn about patents, trademarks, and other IP topics. USPTO locations Find USPTO office locations and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers for in-person IP support. A federal trademark registration can help protect your NIL when you use it to endorse products or make personal appearances. Read more chevron_right American architect Frank Lloyd Wright mastered the use of light as both a visual element and a structural necessity. As we celebrate America’s 250th year, we explore Wright’s innovative legacy and his use of design patents in his work. Read more chevron_right Taking viewers on a journey from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the present day, this film reveals how the intellectual property system has played a pivotal role in shaping American society. Watch the video chevron_right Tune in to learn more chevron_right Artificial intelligence chevron_right Engage with the director chevron_right The USPTO announced the selection of a new community engagement office in North Carolina to further the agency’s outreach efforts in the Southeast Region. The USPTO released its latest report highlighting the profound economic contributions of industries that predominantly rely on intellectual property (IP) protection, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. The USPTO, America's Innovation Agency, held a ceremonial patent and trademark signing to commemorate America’s 250 celebration. As part of our efforts to improve and enhance the digital experience for USPTO.gov visitors, America's Innovation Agency, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, has unveiled a modernized homepage design to make it easier to find valuable information and resources. The U.S Patent and Trademark Office has marked a historic first after signing a statement of intent for a new Accelerated Patent Grant arrangement between the USPTO and Ghana’s IP office, the Registrar General’s Department, Ministry of Justice. Subscribe chevron_right More news chevron_right View all upcoming events chevron_right More speeches chevron_right