USPTO's pilot program for accelerated examination of first-time applicants is about to expire

On March 11, 2025, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced that the First-Time Filer Expedited Examination Pilot Program will expire as planned. Since its launch in 2023, this program has provided eligible first-time applicants with the opportunity to quickly obtain a First Office Action. As of March 4, 2025, 393 applications have obtained special examination status through this program.

1. Program Overview: Fast Track for First-Time Applicants

• The first-time applicant accelerated examination pilot program is designed to help first-time applicants get patent examination feedback faster. Through this program, eligible applicants can receive the examiner's first written opinion quickly after submitting their application, thereby accelerating the patent application process.

2. Application deadline: Time is short, act fast

• According to the USPTO announcement, applicants must submit their applications by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on March 11, 2025. Only applications submitted by the deadline and meeting all requirements will be approved.

3. Alternative plans after the plan expires

• As the pilot program for accelerated examination for first-time applicants expires, applicants may need to rely on other accelerated examination pathways, such as Track One Prioritized Examination or Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH).