What Happens After the USPTO Approves an Application?
If no third-party opposition occurs, the USPTO will issue a Certificate of Registration for a first use application or a Notice of Allowance for an intent-to-use application. A Notice of Allowance is a document that notifies an intent-to-use applicant that the mark has been cleared for registration. The applicant must thereafter submit a Statement of Use and current specimens demonstrating use of the mark has commenced. Once the Statement of Use is accepted, a Certificate of Registration will issue. • How Long Does a Trademark Registration Last? A trademark registration term is for ten years and is renewable indefinitely every ten years provided the mark is still in use and certain requirements are met. To maintain the registration, the owner must file a Declaration of Use between the fifth and sixth year of the first 10-year term, and at every 10-year renewal term. In some situations, a Declaration of Excusable Non-Use may be filed at the time of renewal for marks that are not in curr
