USPTO & PCT: Paper Size, A4 vs Letter

[david]

By October 15, 2014Patent Office Rules & Regulations
Gallagher’s Patent Drafting produces most drawings on A4 Size sheets (21.0 x 29.7 cm). This is the default, as this size is accepted by both the USPTO and the PCT.

We sometimes produce drawings on US Letter Size sheets (8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm), if the client requests that size, or if we are instructed to correct drawing informalities in only some of the sheets, in a previously-submitted case that was originally prepared on Letter Size sheets.

Because it is a near-universally acceptable size for Patent Drawings, we recommend preparing drawings for A4 Size sheets. This could save time and money in drawing preparation.

The USPTO will accept drawings on US Letter Size (8.5 x 11 inches) or International A4 Size sheets:

37 CFR 1.84(f)

(f) Size of paper. All drawing sheets in an application must be the same size. One of the shorter sides of the sheet is regarded as its top. The size of the sheets on which drawings are made must be:
(1) 21.0 cm. by 29.7 cm. (DIN size A4), or
(2) 21.6 cm. by 27.9 cm. (8½ by 11 inches).

The PCT requires that at least one copy of the drawings be on A4 Size sheets:

PCT Rule 11.5

11.5 Size of Sheets

The size of the sheets shall be A4 (29.7 cm x 21 cm). However, any receiving Office may accept international applications on sheets of other sizes provided that the record copy, as transmitted to the International Bureau, and, if the competent International Searching Authority so desires, the search copy, shall be of A4 size.

[Author]

Posts