Continuing its march toward full electronic processing of trademark applications and registrations, the USPTO began issuing U.S. trademark registration certificates electronically via the USPTO's Trademark Status and Document Retrieval (TSDR) system beginning May 24, 2022. Upon issuance, the electronic registration certificate will be the official registration certificate.

The USPTO will issue the registrations electronically under the electronic signature of the Director and with a digital seal, which will authenticate the registration. The USPTO will upload the official registration certificate to the TSDR database, and an electronic notice will be emailed to the trademark owner and all email addresses of record with a link to access the certificate upon issuance. Posted with the electronic registration certificate will be information regarding registration maintenance requirements pursuant to sections 8 and 71 of the Trademark Act of 1946. 15 U.S.C. §§ 1058, 1141(k). Trademark owners will be able to use the emailed link to view, download, and print a complete copy of the registration certificate at no charge at any time.

After May 24, 2022, trademark owners will have the option to order paper "presentation" copies suitable for framing for a fee. Trademark owners who file an initial application on or after the implementation date will be able to order presentation copies for $25 per copy through the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS). Trademark owners who filed an initial application before the implementation date will be able to order one presentation copy for free. Trademark owners will continue to be able to order certified copies of their trademark registration for a fee.

After May 24, 2022, certified copies of trademark registrations can still be ordered upon payment of a fee.

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