Complete Patent Agent Exam Registration guide for 2026: step-by-step process, eligibility, documents, fees ₹1,600, troubleshooting tips.

Starting your journey as a patent agent in India begins with one crucial step — registering for the Patent Agent Examination. The Patent Agent Examination is conducted by the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM), which operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. The examination is held under the authority of the Patents Act, 1970, and the Patent Rules, 2003. All updates, guidelines, and registration facilities are available through the IP India official website.

This exam is your official gateway to representing inventors, startups, and companies before the Indian Patent Office. Once you clear it and complete your registration, you earn the authority to draft, file, and prosecute patent applications, a highly respected and specialized role in India’s growing innovation ecosystem.

Now, the registration process can seem intimidating at first glance, especially with its online forms, eligibility checks, and document uploads. But in reality, it’s quite straightforward once you know what to expect. To be eligible, you must be:

• An Indian citizen, 21 years or older, and
• Hold a degree in science, engineering, or technology (as per Section 126 of the Patents Act, 1970). 

The fee is ₹1,600, and the test is tentatively scheduled for 11 January 2026. These details were officially announced by the Indian Patent Office in its public notice on ipindia.gov.in.

The exam itself consists of two papers — one objective and one descriptive, designed to test both your understanding of patent law and your ability to draft and interpret patent specifications. Once you pass, you can apply for registration under Rule 111 of the Patents Rules, 2003, after which your name is entered in the Register of Patent Agents. That’s when you can proudly call yourself a Registered Patent Agent of India.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire registration journey, from checking your eligibility and applying online to what happens after you pass the exam. With the right preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can navigate the Patent Agent Examination smoothly and take the first confident step toward a rewarding career in intellectual property law.

Who Can Register for the Patent Agent Exam?

Before you start the registration process, it’s crucial to verify that you meet all eligibility criteria specified under Section 126 of the Patents Act, 1970. The eligibility requirements are straightforward but must be met precisely. You need to be an Indian citizen, be at least 21 years old, and possess the required educational qualifications in science, engineering, or technology. These criteria ensure that patent agents have the technical background necessary to understand inventions and draft patent applications effectively.

Educational Qualifications Required Under Section 126

According to Section 126(1)(c) of the Patents Act, 1970, you must have obtained a degree in science, engineering, or technology from any university established under law in India, or possess equivalent qualifications specified by the Central Government. This technical educational background is essential because patent agents need to understand the technical aspects of inventions to prepare patent specifications and prosecute applications effectively. The degree must be from a recognized university, and you’ll need to provide your degree certificate during the registration process.

Science Degrees, Engineering Degrees, Technology and Pharmacy Degrees

If you hold a Bachelor’s degree in Science (B.Sc) in any scientific discipline, including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, or Mathematics from a recognized Indian university, you’re eligible to register. Similarly, Master’s degrees (M.Sc.) and doctoral degrees (Ph.D.) in these fields also qualify you for the examination. The wide range of acceptable science degrees ensures that professionals from various scientific backgrounds can enter the patent profession.

Engineering graduates with degrees like B.E., B.Tech, M.E., M.Tech in any engineering discipline—whether Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, Civil, Chemical, or any other branch, are eligible to appear for the exam. Technology and Pharmacy graduates holding B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or technology degrees from recognized institutions also meet the educational criteria. This broad eligibility across technical fields reflects the diverse nature of patent work, which spans multiple technology domains from pharmaceuticals to software to mechanical innovations.

Citizenship Requirements

You must be a citizen of India to register for the Patent Agent Examination. This is a mandatory requirement under Section 126 of the Patents Act, 1970. During registration, you’ll need to provide valid proof of Indian citizenship, such as your Passport, Voter ID card, Birth Certificate, or Certificate of Nationality. Make sure your citizenship document is clear, valid, and ready in scanned PDF format before you begin the online registration process.

Age Requirements (Minimum 21 Years)

The minimum age requirement for appearing in the Patent Agent Examination is 21 years, and you must have completed this age by the last date of registration. There is no maximum age limit, which means professionals at any stage of their career can pursue patent agent qualification. This age requirement ensures that candidates have sufficient maturity and educational foundation before entering the patent profession, which involves representing clients before the Indian Patent Office.

Can Final-Year Students Apply for Patent Agent Exam?

Yes, if you’re currently in your final year of an engineering, science, or technology degree, you can register for the Patent Agent Examination. However, you must submit a provisional degree certificate or a bona fide certificate from your university confirming that you’re in the final year and are expected to complete your degree. If you’re applying with a provisional certificate, you’ll need to submit your final degree certificate within two months after the examination results are declared to complete your registration as a Patent Agent.

Can Law Graduates Register for Patent Agent Exam?

Law graduates with only a B.A. LLB, B.Com LLB, or LLB degrees are not eligible to register for the Patent Agent Examination unless they also hold a separate degree in science, engineering, or technology. If you’re a lawyer with an additional B.Sc., B.Tech, or equivalent technical degree, you can register for the exam. This requirement exists because patent work requires understanding technical inventions, which pure legal education doesn’t provide. However, advocates without being Patent Agents can still represent clients in patent litigation before courts under Section 132 of the Patents Act.

Pre-Registration Preparation: Essential Documents and Requirements

Before you begin the online registration process, gathering all required documents in the correct format saves time and prevents last-minute complications. The IP India portal has specific requirements for document formats, file sizes, and quality standards. Preparing these documents properly is crucial because the system automatically rejects files that don’t meet specifications, and you won’t be able to edit your application after final submission.

Complete Document Checklist Before You Start

You’ll need five categories of documents ready in digital format: 

1. Proof of age, 
2. Proof of citizenship, 
3. A degree certificate, 
4. A recent photograph, and
5. Your signature. 

Each document must be scanned clearly and saved in the specified format, photographs and signatures in JPG/JPEG format, and other documents in PDF format. Keep these files in a dedicated folder on your computer before starting the registration. Having everything ready prevents the frustration of searching for documents midway through the application process, which could lead to errors or missed deadlines.

Proof of Age Documents (PAN, Driving License, Class 10 Certificate)

For age verification, you can submit any one of the following documents: PAN Card, Driving License, Class 10th/SSC Certificate, or Birth Certificate. Your Class 10th certificate is often the easiest option since it directly shows your date of birth and is readily available with most candidates. Scan the document clearly in PDF format, ensuring all text is readable. The document should be self-attested (you can add a digital signature stating “Self-Attested” or print, sign, and scan).

Proof of Citizenship (Passport, Voter ID, Birth Certificate)

To prove Indian citizenship, submit any one valid document: Indian Passport, Voter ID card, Birth Certificate issued by a competent authority, or Certificate of Nationality. Your Passport or Voter ID is the most commonly used document. Make sure the scanned copy is clear, with all text and your photograph (if present) clearly visible. Save the document as a PDF file, preferably self-attested. This document must clearly establish that you’re a citizen of India.

Degree Certificate in Science/Engineering/Technology

Your degree certificate is the most critical document as it establishes your eligibility under Section 126. If you have your final degree certificate, scan it clearly showing the university name, your name, the degree awarded, and the date of completion. If you’re a final-year student, you can upload a provisional certificate or bona fide certificate from your university confirming your enrollment in the final year. Ensure the document clearly shows your field of study (science, engineering, or technology) and is from a recognized university. Save this as a PDF file with all pages included if your certificate has multiple pages.

Photograph for Registration

Your photograph is the most format-sensitive requirement. You need a recent passport-size color photograph in JPG or JPEG format with a maximum file size of 300 KB. The photograph must have a plain white or blue background only—no other colors are acceptable. Your face should occupy at least 50% of the photograph, you should look straight into the camera, and the image should be clear without shadows, glare, or improper lighting. Common rejection reasons include: mobile phone selfies with poor lighting, photographs with shadows on the face, wearing dark sunglasses, or backgrounds other than white or blue.

Signature Requirements for Registration

Your signature sample must be created using BLACK INK ONLY on white paper, then scanned and saved as JPG or JPEG format with a maximum file size of 100 KB. Sign naturally on white paper, scan just the signature portion (crop closely), and save it as a JPEG file. The signature should be clearly visible and legible. This signature will appear on your admit card and other official documents, so ensure it matches your usual signature style.

Patent Agent Exam Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide

The registration process for Patent Agent Examination 2026 is entirely online through the IP India portal. There is no offline or postal application method available. 

Step 1 – Visit the Official IP India Registration Portal

Go to the official IP India website at www.ipindia.gov.in and look for the banner or notification about “Registration for Patent/Trade Marks Agent Examination 2026.” Click on this link to access the online registration portal.

Step 2 – Create New Account on Exam Portal

If this is your first time registering for the Patent Agent Examination, you’ll need to create a new account by selecting “New Applicant Registration.” Enter your valid email address and create a secure password. Choose a unique User ID that you’ll remember, as you’ll use this to log in and track your application status. Enter your mobile number, which must be active because all exam-related communications, including your admit card link, will be sent via email and SMS to these contact details. If you’ve applied for a Patent Agent Exam previously, simply log in using your existing credentials instead of creating a new account.

Step 3 – Fill Personal and Academic Details

After logging in, you’ll see the application form where you need to carefully fill in your personal information, including your full name exactly as it appears on your degree certificate, date of birth, gender, and contact details. In the academic details section, provide information about your qualifying degree, including university name, degree obtained, year of passing, and roll number or registration number. The system allows you to save your progress using the “Save Draft” option, so you don’t need to complete everything in one sitting. However, make sure all information is accurate because you cannot edit these details after the final submission.

Step 4 – Upload Required Documents

Navigate to the document upload section and upload each required document one by one: your photograph (JPG, max 300KB), signature (JPG, max 100KB, black ink), degree certificate (PDF), proof of age (PDF), and proof of citizenship (PDF). The system will validate file formats and sizes automatically. If any document is rejected, you’ll see an error message, check the file format, size, and quality requirements, and re-upload. Make sure each uploaded document is clear and readable. Once all documents are successfully uploaded, the system will show green checkmarks confirming successful uploads.

Step 5 – Select Examination Center

The Patent Agent Examination 2026 will be conducted at 13 centers across India: 

1. Ahmedabad
2. Bangalore
3. Bhopal
4. Chandigarh
5. Chennai
6. Delhi
7. Guwahati
8. Hyderabad
9. Kolkata
10. Lucknow
11. Mumbai
12. Nagpur and 
13. Thiruvananthapuram. 

From the dropdown menu, select your preferred examination center considering your location, travel convenience, and accommodation availability. This is a critical decision because the examination center cannot be changed under any circumstances after you submit the final application. Choose the center closest to you, or if you need to travel, select one where you can arrange accommodation easily for the exam day.

Step 6 – Review Application Before Final Submit

Before clicking the “Final Submit” button, carefully review every single detail you’ve entered: your name spelling, date of birth, degree information, email address, mobile number, and examination center. Use the “Preview” option to see your complete application form, including all uploaded documents. Check that your photograph and signature are clearly visible and meet quality standards. Once you click “Final Submit,” you cannot make any changes or corrections to your application. If you find any errors, correct them now before final submission. Taking this extra time to verify everything can save you from complications later.

Step 7 – Fee Payment Process

After final submission, you’ll be directed to the payment page to pay the examination fee of ₹1,600 (Rupees One Thousand Six Hundred Only) as specified under Rule 109(3) of the Patents Rules, 2003. 

Step 8 – Download Receipt

After successful payment, the system will generate your CBR (Computer-Based Receipt), which is your proof of completed registration. Download this receipt.

Step 9 – Confirmation Email Verification

Within 24-48 hours of successful registration and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email at your registered email address from the Patent Office. This email confirms that your application has been received and registered in the system. Check your inbox and spam folder for this email. If you don’t receive the confirmation email within 2-3 working days, log in to the portal and check your application status, or contact the Patent Office at [email protected] with your application number and transaction details. Keep this confirmation email saved, as it serves as an official acknowledgment of your registration.

Post-Registration: What Happens Next?

Once you’ve successfully completed your registration and received confirmation, it’s important to understand the timeline leading up to the examination and what steps follow. The journey from registration to becoming a qualified Patent Agent spans several months and includes multiple stages: admit card download, written examination, results declaration, viva voce (interview), and final results. Understanding this timeline helps you plan your exam preparation, travel arrangements, and leave applications from work or college.

Complete Timeline from Registration to Certification

Let me walk you through the complete timeline for the Patent Agent Examination 2026 cycle, with all critical dates you need to mark on your calendar. 

Registration Window

The online registration window usually opens well in advance. The online registration window for 2026 opened in July. While the registration is closed for the 2026 exam, if you did not apply, then keep an eye out for notifications in 2026 for the 2027 exam.

Admit Card Availability

If you have applied, your admit card for the Patent Agent Examination 2026 will be available for download from December 2025 through the same IP India registration portal. You’ll need to log in using your User ID and password to access and download your admit card. The admit card will contain your roll number, examination center details with complete address, exam date and timings, and important instructions for the examination day. No admit card will be sent by post or email; you must download it yourself from the portal.

Examination Date (January 11, 2026)

The Patent Agent Examination 2026 is scheduled to be held on Saturday, January 11, 2026, at all 13 examination centers simultaneously. The exam consists of two papers conducted in two sessions: 

• Paper-I (objective type, 2 hours, 100 marks) in the morning session and 
• Paper-II (descriptive type, 3 hours, 100 marks) in the afternoon session.

 You must appear for both papers on the same day. Make sure you reach the examination center well before the reporting time mentioned on your admit card, as late entry is not permitted after 15 minutes from the commencement of the examination.

Written Exam Results

The results of the written examination (Paper-I and Paper-II) are tentatively scheduled to be declared on February 10, 2026. These results will be published on the IP India official website, and you can check your results by entering your roll number. To be eligible for the next stage (viva voce), you must score a minimum of 50% marks in each paper separately—that means at least 50 marks out of 100 in Paper I and at least 50 marks out of 100 in Paper II. Only candidates who meet this criterion will be called for the viva voce examination.

Viva Voce Schedule

Candidates who qualify the written examination by scoring at least 50% in each paper will be called for the viva voce (oral interview) examination, which is scheduled to be conducted from February 25 to February 28, 2026. 

The viva voce carries 50 marks and will be conducted in a physical mode. You’ll receive specific date, time, and venue details through email and on the IP India website. The viva voce tests your overall understanding of patent law, practical aspects of patent prosecution, and your ability to communicate effectively.

Final Results Declaration 

The final results of the Patent Agent Examination 2026, combining scores from Paper-I, Paper-II, and viva voce, are tentatively scheduled to be declared in March 2026. To pass the examination and qualify as a Patent Agent, you must obtain an aggregate of at least 60% of the total marks (that means at least 150 marks out of 250 total marks from all three components). The final results will be published on the IP India website with the list of successful candidates. Once your name appears in the results, you can proceed with the next step of registering yourself as a Patent Agent in the Register of Patent Agents maintained by the Controller.

Downloading Your Admit Card

From December 15, 2025, onwards, visit the IP India examination portal and log in using your User ID and password that you created during registration. Look for the “Download Admit Card” or “Print Admit Card” option in the main menu. Click on it to view your admit card, which will display your photograph, signature, roll number, name, examination center with complete address, exam date, and reporting time. Download the admit card as a PDF and take a color printout on good-quality paper. You must carry this printed admit card along with a valid government-issued photo ID to the examination center. Without the admit card, you will not be allowed to enter the examination hall under any circumstances. Keep at least 2-3 copies of the admit card printed and carry them on exam day.

Exam Day Preparation Essentials

Planning for the examination day starts much before January 11, 2026. If your examination center is in a different city, book your travel tickets and accommodation well in advance. Visit the examination center location a day before if possible to know the exact route and travel time, avoiding any confusion or delays on the exam day itself.

Documents to Carry (Admit Card and Government Photo ID)

On the examination day, you must carry two mandatory documents: your color-printed admit card downloaded from the IP India portal, and a valid government-issued photo identity card for verification. Acceptable photo IDs include Passport, Driving License, PAN Card, Aadhaar Card (UID), or Voter ID Card. Your photograph on the ID card should reasonably match your current appearance. Make sure nothing is written on the admit card by you—any writing or markings on the admit card can lead to disqualification. Keep both documents safely in a transparent folder for easy access during verification at the examination center entrance.

Reporting Time and Entry Rules

Candidates are allowed to enter the examination hall 30 minutes before the scheduled commencement time of each paper. Report to the examination center at least 45-60 minutes before the exam starts, to complete entry formalities, identity verification, and seating allocation smoothly. No candidate will be allowed to enter the examination hall after 15 minutes from the commencement of the examination—this rule is strictly enforced. You also cannot leave the examination hall before completing half the duration of the paper, so plan accordingly. During entry, your photograph and signature will be verified against the admit card, and you’ll be required to sign the attendance sheet.

After Passing the Exam: Next Steps Toward Becoming a Registered Patent Agent

Passing the Patent Agent Examination is a significant achievement, but it’s important to understand that passing the exam doesn’t automatically make you a “Registered Patent Agent.” There’s a separate registration process you must complete after passing the examination to officially become a Patent Agent authorized to practice before the Indian Patent Office.

Understanding Form 22 (Patent Agent Registration Application)

After the final results are declared and your name appears in the list of successful candidates, you need to apply for registration as a Patent Agent using Form 22 under Rule 109 of the Patents Rules, 2003. Form 22 is titled “Application for Registration of Patent Agent” and must be filled out completely with your personal details, educational qualifications, and examination details. Along with Form 22, you’ll need to submit attested copies of your degree certificate, character certificate, proof of passing the Patent Agent Examination, and pay the prescribed registration fee. This form is submitted to the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks.

Difference Between Passing the Exam and Being a Registered Patent Agent

Many candidates mistakenly believe that passing the Patent Agent Examination automatically entitles them to practice as a Patent Agent, but this isn’t correct. Passing the examination makes you qualified to become a Patent Agent, but you must complete the registration process and have your name entered in the Register of Patent Agents maintained under Section 126 of the Patents Act, 1970. Only after the Controller processes your Form 22 application and enters your name in the official Register are you authorized to call yourself a “Registered Patent Agent” and practice before the Patent Office. Until registration is complete, you cannot legally represent clients in patent matters before the Controller.

Post-Qualification Registration Process

Once you submit Form 22 with all required documents and fees, the Patent Office will verify your application, conduct any necessary background checks, and process your registration request. This typically takes 2-4 months from submission. After your application is approved, your name will be officially entered in the Register of Patent Agents, and you’ll receive a registration certificate with a unique Patent Agent registration number. This certificate authorizes you to practice as a Patent Agent in India.

Your name, address, and registration number will be published on the IP India website in the Register of Patent Agents, making you searchable for potential clients and establishing your credentials publicly. As a registered Patent Agent, you’ll need to pay an annual renewal fee of ₹800 (not included in the initial payment of ₹3200) to maintain your name in the register. With registration complete, you can now legally draft patent applications, prosecute them before the Patent Office, represent clients in patent proceedings, and build your career in the intellectual property field.

Important Guidelines and Policies

Understanding the official guidelines and policies of the Patent Agent Examination helps you avoid mistakes and complications during the registration and examination process. The Office of the Controller General of Patents has established clear rules that all candidates must follow. These policies are strictly enforced, and ignorance of these rules is not considered a valid excuse for non-compliance.

Registration Policies You Must Know

There are several critical policies regarding registration that you must understand before and after completing your application. These policies are designed to maintain fairness and standardization in the examination process, but they can cause significant problems if you’re not aware of them beforehand.

Fees Once Paid Are Non-Refundable

The examination fee of ₹1,600 that you pay during registration is completely non-refundable under any circumstances. Whether you decide not to appear for the examination, miss the exam due to personal reasons, fall sick on exam day, or are unable to attend for any other reason, the Patent Office will not refund your registration fee. This policy is clearly stated in the official notification, so make sure you’re fully committed to appearing for the examination before paying the fee. Plan your schedule for January 2026 accordingly before registering.

Examination Center Cannot Be Changed

Once you select an examination center during registration and click “Final Submit,” the center assignment becomes permanent and cannot be changed under any circumstances. The Patent Office will not entertain any requests for center change regardless of your reasons, whether you relocate to a different city, face personal emergencies, or have any other compelling reason. If you appear at a center other than the one mentioned on your admit card, your answer booklet and result will be canceled. Choose your examination center very carefully, considering your location in January 2026 and making realistic assessments about travel and accommodation requirements.

No Physical Application Accepted (Online Only)

The registration process for Patent Agent Examination 2026 is exclusively online through the IP India portal. There is absolutely no provision for submitting physical applications by post, courier, email, or in person at any Patent Office. Don’t send any physical copies of your application form, documents, or demand drafts to the Patent Office; they will not be accepted or processed. All communication, document submission, fee payment, and updates must be done through the online portal only. This online-only policy streamlines the process but means you must have reliable internet access and be comfortable with online applications.

Examination Language Options

The Patent Agent Examination is available in two language mediums: Hindi and English. You’ll need to make a language choice during your registration, and this decision has important implications for both the written examination and your future practice as a Patent Agent.

Hindi or English (Choose at Registration)

During the registration process, you must select whether you want to receive your question papers in Hindi or English. Both Paper-I (objective type) and Paper-II (descriptive type) will be provided in the language you choose. Consider your comfort level with technical and legal terminology in each language. Most patent law terminology and international practice uses English, so if you’re comfortable with English, it might be advantageous. However, if Hindi is your strong suit and you’re more confident expressing legal concepts in Hindi, choose accordingly. The examination evaluates your knowledge, not your language preference.

Cannot Change Language After Submission

Once you submit your application after selecting your language preference (Hindi or English), you cannot change this choice later. The question papers you receive on examination day will be in the language you selected during registration. There’s no provision to request question papers in the alternate language on exam day or to change your language preference after registration closes. Make this decision carefully during registration based on your genuine comfort level, as you’ll be writing a 3-hour descriptive exam (Paper-II) in the chosen language.

Conclusion

Registering for the Patent Agent Examination 2026 is your first step toward a rewarding career in intellectual property and patent law. By following this comprehensive guide, you now understand the complete registration process from eligibility verification through document preparation, online application, fee payment, and what happens after registration. Remember that attention to detail is crucial; ensure your documents meet all format requirements, and double-check your information before final submission. 

The key to successful registration is preparation and timely action. Gather all your documents in the correct formats, verify your eligibility criteria, and don’t wait until the last days of the registration window.

Becoming a Patent Agent opens doors to a specialized legal career where you’ll help innovators and companies protect their inventions, work with cutting-edge technologies, and contribute to India’s intellectual property ecosystem. The examination tests your knowledge of patent law and procedures, but the registration process itself is straightforward if you follow the guidelines carefully. Take this first step with confidence, complete your registration properly, and begin your journey toward becoming a qualified Patent Agent in India.

For the most current information, always refer to the official IP India website and the official notification for Patent Agent Examination. Good luck with your registration and examination preparation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register for Patent Agent Exam if I’m in my final year of engineering?

Yes, final-year students pursuing degrees in science, engineering, or technology can register for the Patent Agent Examination. However, you must upload a provisional degree certificate or a bonafide certificate from your university confirming that you’re enrolled in the final year and expected to complete your degree. If you pass the examination, you’ll need to submit your final degree certificate to the Patent Office within two months of the results declaration to complete your registration as a Patent Agent.

What is the registration fee for Patent Agent Exam 2026?

The registration fee for Patent Agent Examination 2026 is ₹1,600 (Rupees One Thousand Six Hundred Only) as prescribed under Rule 109(3) of the Patents Rules, 2003. 

Can I change my exam center after submitting the registration form?

No, once you submit your registration form after selecting an examination center, the center cannot be changed under any circumstances. The Patent Office strictly enforces this policy and does not entertain any requests for center change regardless of the reason. If you appear at a center other than the one mentioned on your admit card, your answer booklet and result will be cancelled. Therefore, choose your examination center very carefully during registration, considering your location in January 2026 and realistic travel arrangements.

How do I download my admit card after registration?

Your admit card will be available for download from December 15, 2025, onwards on the IP India examination portal. Log in using your User ID and password, and look for the “Download Admit Card” or “Print Admit Card” option in the main menu. Download your admit card as a PDF and take a color printout on good quality paper. You must carry this printed admit card along with a valid government photo ID to the examination center. No admit card is sent by post or email; you must download it yourself from the portal.

Can law graduates appear for Patent Agent Exam?

Law graduates with only B.A. LLB, B.Com LLB, or LLB degrees cannot appear for the Patent Agent Examination unless they also possess a separate degree in science, engineering, or technology. The eligibility criteria under Section 126 of the Patents Act, 1970, specifically requires a technical degree. However, if you’re a lawyer who also holds a B.Sc., B.Tech, or equivalent degree in any scientific or technical field, you can register and appear for the exam. Advocates who are not Patent Agents can still represent clients in patent litigation before courts under Section 132 of the Patents Act.

Is there any age limit for Patent Agent Exam registration?

The minimum age requirement for appearing in the Patent Agent Examination is 21 years. There is no maximum age limit, which means professionals at any stage of their career can pursue Patent Agent qualification. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a mid-career professional looking to transition into patent law, you can register for the examination as long as you meet the educational and citizenship requirements and are at least 21 years old.

Can I register for both Patent Agent and Trademark Agent Exams?

Yes, you can register for both the Patent Agent Examination and the Trademark Agent Examination if you meet the eligibility criteria for both. For the Patent Agent Exam, you need a degree in science, engineering, or technology. For the Trademark Agent Exam, you need to be a graduate in any discipline or be an advocate.

Both examinations are conducted on different dates, Patent Agent Exam 2026 on January 11, 2026 (Sunday), and Trademark Agent Exam 2026 on January 10, 2026 (Saturday). You must submit separate applications and pay separate fees for each examination. If you qualify for both exams, you can practice as both a Patent Agent and Trademark Agent, expanding your professional opportunities in intellectual property law.

How many times can I attempt the Patent Agent Exam?

There is no limit on the number of attempts for the Patent Agent Examination. If you don’t pass the examination on your first attempt, you can register and appear again in the next examination cycle. The exam is typically conducted once or twice a year, though the frequency depends on the Controller’s schedule.

Each time you appear, you must go through the complete registration process again and pay the examination fee of ₹1,600. Many successful Patent Agents have passed the examination on their second or third attempt, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t succeed initially. Use the experience to identify areas for improvement and prepare more thoroughly for the next attempt.

Can I use a provisional degree certificate for registration?

Yes, final-year students or recent graduates who haven’t received their final degree certificate can use a provisional degree certificate or bonafide certificate for registration. The certificate must be issued by your university or college, confirming that you’re enrolled in the final year (for current students) or have completed all requirements for the degree (for recent graduates).

Make sure the provisional certificate clearly mentions your field of study (science, engineering, or technology) and is issued on official letterhead. If you register with a provisional certificate and pass the Patent Agent Examination, you must submit your final degree certificate to the Controller within two months of the examination results declaration to complete your registration as a Patent Agent.

What should I do if my name on the degree certificate is different from the current documents?

If your name in your degree certificate differs from your current name (commonly happens after marriage or legal name change), you should apply using the name as it appears on your degree certificate during registration. Additionally, prepare supporting documents to explain the name difference: your marriage certificate (if name changed after marriage), a gazette notification (if legal name change), or an affidavit explaining the name change.

During registration, you may need to upload these additional documents along with your standard documents. It’s advisable to contact the Patent Office at [email protected] before registration to clarify the exact procedure and documents required in your specific case. When you later apply for Patent Agent registration using Form 22 after passing the exam, you’ll definitely need to submit name change documentation at that stage.