Guide
How to Order Certified Copies from the USPTO
How to order certified copies of patents, patent applications and trademark registrations from the USPTO for foreign filings — which version to request and why database printouts don't work.
Quick answer
Order them from the USPTO’s certified-copy service, specifying exactly what you need: the issued patent, the application as filed (for priority claims), a trademark registration, a status-and-title copy, or assignment records. Fees apply per copy. Public-database printouts carry no certification and can’t be apostilled.
On this page
Which version to order
- Patent grant — the issued patent.
- Application as filed — usually what’s needed for a priority claim.
- Trademark registration — the registration certificate.
- Status and title copy — shows current status and owner; some foreign offices require it.
- Assignment records — proof of ownership transfers.
Step by step
Confirm with foreign counsel
Which document, and whether it must be recent.
Order from the USPTO
Use the USPTO’s certified-copy ordering service with the patent or registration number.
Pay per copy
Order one per filing jurisdiction if needed.
Plan against deadlines
Priority-claim deadlines are strict; allow time for the copy and the apostille.
When you’ll need it abroad
- Foreign patent filings and priority claims
- Madrid Protocol and national trademark filings
- IP enforcement and oppositions abroad
- Licensing, assignment and due diligence
Troubleshooting
The priority deadline is close
Order immediately and plan the apostille in parallel.
The foreign office wants a recent copy
Order a new status-and-title copy close to filing.
Ownership changed
Include certified assignment records.
You need several countries
Order one certified copy per filing.
Next: getting it apostilled
Once you have the document, it needs authentication before a foreign authority will accept it. See how to apostille it. Our price is $299 per document for Hague Convention countries and $399 for non-Hague countries including embassy legalization, with government fees included.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apostille a patent PDF from Google Patents?
No. Only a USPTO certified copy can be apostilled.
What do I need for a priority claim?
Usually a certified copy of the application as filed.
What is a status-and-title copy?
A certified copy showing a registration's current status and owner.
Do I need a lawyer to order certified copies?
No — anyone can order them.
How long does the USPTO take?
Typically days to a few weeks, depending on the product.
Sources: U.S. Department of State — Authenticate Your Document · Hague Conference — Apostille Section · USPTO — Certified copies. Federal Apostille USA is a private service, not a government agency.
Ready to start?
Order online in minutes, or call and we will walk you through it. Federal documents from anywhere in the U.S. — one flat price, all government fees included.