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USPTO Pre-Docketing Notice pilot program

  • Writer: Robert Fish, Esq.
    Robert Fish, Esq.
  • Jul 22
  • 1 min read

July 14. 2026


In the old days (ok, it was just before this new program), you would submit your patent application and wait. And wait some more. You would not hear anything until the USPTO finally got around to examining it and sent you a first office action.

But now, with the new Applicant ‘Pre-Docketing Notice’ pilot program, a notice will be sent around three months prior to the expected docketing for the examination.


Introducing the USPTO Pre-Docketing Notice Pilot Program, aimed at streamlining patent application processes for enhanced efficiency.
Introducing the USPTO Pre-Docketing Notice Pilot Program, aimed at streamlining patent application processes for enhanced efficiency.

This will give applicants more information about the timing of their application, as well as give them opportunities to verify and update information. It will also inform applicants of “steps they can take to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of examination”.


One important addition is that if you no longer want to pursue patent protection, it will give notice of the opportunity to abandon the application and may then allow you to recoup search and excess claim fees paid under certain conditions.

The official notice can be viewed at the PTO’s page for the Applicant Pre-Docketing Notice pilot program.


For other recent USPTO news, see USPTO Launches AO Pre-Examination Search Pilot

 
 
 

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