How long does a patent last?
A utility patent applied for after June 8, 1995 remains in force for a period of 20 years from the date of application, provided that periodic maintenance payments are timely made (due at 3½, 7½, and 11½ years from issue). Utility patents in force or applied for as of June 8, 1995 remain in force for the longer of 20 years from the date of application or 17 years from the date of issue, again subject to maintenance payments. There is also a minimum term of 17 years from date of issue, if any delays are not the fault of the applicant. Design patents have a term of 14 years from the date of issue and no maintenance payments are required.
Generally, the term of a new patent is 20 years from the date on which the application for the patent was filed in the United States or, in special cases, from the date an earlier related application was filed, subject to the payment of maintenance fees. U.S. patent grants are effective only within the United States, U.S. territories, and U.S. possessions. Under certain circumstances, patent term extensions or adjustments may be available.
