How to Search Copyright / Trademark / Patents (Start Here)
Intellectual property records are maintained by the U.S. Copyright Office and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
What this page covers: Copyright registration searches, federal trademark searches (USPTO TESS), and patent searches. What it does not cover: State trademark registrations.
Where to start: For trademarks, search USPTO TESS. For patents, use USPTO PatFT. For copyrights, use the Copyright Office search (covers 1978 to present online).
Common mistake: Copyright exists automatically upon creation — registration is optional. Many copyrighted works will not appear in the Copyright Office database.
What Each System Returns vs Excludes
| System | Returns | Excludes |
|---|---|---|
| USPTO Patents | Full patent documents, claims, drawings, prosecution history | Trade secrets, unpublished applications (18mo delay) |
| USPTO Trademarks | Registered/pending marks, status, owner, goods/services | State-level trademark registrations |
| Copyright Office | Registered works 1978+, title, author, claimant | Pre-1978 records (in-person only), unregistered works |
Copyright Records
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U.S. Copyright Office database of copyright records from 1978 to present.
Patent Assignments
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United States Patent and Trademark Office database of Patent Assignments.
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Trademarks | Appeals
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United States Patent and Trademark Office Trial and Appeal Board appeal case records.
Trademarks | Assignments
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Search the United States Patent and Trademark Office for Trademark Assignments.
Trademarks | Disputes
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Search the United States Patent and Trademark Office for trademark disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register a copyright? ▼
No. Copyright protection exists automatically when a work is created. Registration is optional but provides legal benefits.
What is the difference between a trademark and a patent? ▼
A trademark protects a brand name or logo. A patent protects an invention or design.
Can I search trademarks for free? ▼
Yes. USPTO TESS is free and publicly accessible.
Other Federal Databases
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