WASHINGTON - As part of the US Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO) ongoing efforts to protect customer data, effective September 11, 2025, identity verification will be required for all Patent Center users. Guest and unregistered users will no longer be able to access Patent Center. For a smooth experience, we encourage both current and future users to register early, according to the official website of USPTO. 

These measures further improve intellectual property fraud protection by ensuring that only registered and identity verified users can access Patent Center. Identity verification helps us to deter fraudulent filings and allows us to monitor data miners who negatively affect stakeholder filings. 

Customers can verify their identity through the ID.me verification platform, which we announced earlier this year via a news brief. Utilizing ID.me boosts security and enables users to obtain same day verification and access to Patent Center, while simultaneously simplifying the verification process and reducing the wait time to access Patent Center.  

It’s important to note that the ID.me platform is not the sole identity verification method available to Patent Center users. Users maintain the option to mail a Patent Electronic System Verification form to verify their identity and gain access to Patent Center and accompanying features.  

USPTO will continue updating our Patent Center Patent Center FAQ webpage with details on the identity verification process required for gaining access to Patent Center, so please regularly check the page for more information.