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Q: Which type of patent protection do I need for my invention?


When inventors talk about patents, they're usually referring to a utility patent. That's because utility patents cover the most common types of inventions; those producing some sort of function or result.
Provisional Application for Patent: The review process for a utility patent typically takes 1-3 years. But to help inventors secure protection for their ideas sooner, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office offers a faster, more affordable option called a Provisional Application for Utility Patent.

A Provisional Application grants you an immediate priority filing date. Once received, you have the right to label your invention "patent pending." Most importantly, you can later file a Non-Provisional Utility Patent Application that claims your original priority filing date.
Click here to start a Provisional Application for Patent.

Design Patents: As the name suggests, design patents protect purely artistic or ornamental designs for manufactured items. These designs do not affect the function of the manufactured item. Examples include an ornamental face plate for a watch or unique design for an office chair.
Click here to start a Design Patent.


Provisional Application for Patent
  • Granted on machines, manufactured articles, processes or methods, and compositions of matter.
  • Fast USPTO review process
  • 12-month term
  • Immediate "patent pending" status
  • Option to use original filing date for Non-Provisional Utility Patent
Design Patent
  • Granted on ornamental designs for manufactured items
  • Design does not affect function of manufactured item
  • 14-Year Patent Term
  • Unlimited Renewals
Which document is right for me? See our Comparison Chart
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