The patent bar exam, officially the USPTO Registration Examination, qualifies you to prosecute patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Lawyers who pass become patent attorneys, and non-lawyers become patent agents. It’s separate from state bar exams.
Practice MPEP-style questions on our free patent bar practice test.
Key takeaways
- 100 multiple-choice questions (90 scored) over 6 hours.
- You need 70% (63 of 90 scored) to pass.
- Fees: about $118 for the application plus about $226 for the exam at a test center.
- You need a qualifying science or engineering background.
USA Patent Bar Exam: Quick Facts
- Administered by
- USPTO (OED)
- Questions
- 100 (90 scored)
- Time
- 6 hours (two 3-hour sessions)
- Passing
- 70%
- Reference
- Electronic MPEP provided
Patent Bar Eligibility
Applicants qualify under Category A (a bachelor’s degree in a listed subject such as engineering, biology, chemistry or computer science), Category B (enough science or engineering credits) or Category C (practical engineering or scientific experience, such as passing the FE exam).
More on Patent Bar Eligibility →How to Pass the Patent Bar
- Learn to navigate the MPEP quickly. It’s searchable during the exam, but time is tight.
- Focus on MPEP chapters 700 (examination), 2100 (patentability) and 1800 (PCT), plus appeals and post-grant proceedings.
- Practice with past USPTO exams and timed drills, such as our patent bar practice test.
Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA Patent Bar Exam practice test →USA Patent Bar Exam FAQs
How many questions are on the patent bar exam?
100 multiple-choice questions, of which 90 are scored, in two 3-hour sessions.
Full answer →Do you need a law degree for the patent bar?
No. Non-lawyers with a qualifying technical background can pass and become registered patent agents.
Full answer →Is the patent bar open book?
Partly. An electronic copy of the MPEP is available on screen, but not other materials.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not legal advice. Bar admission rules vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm dates, fees and requirements with your state’s bar admission authority. Read our editorial policy.