The National Council on Patent Practicum, Inc. (NCPP), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, oversees the development and operation of the Certified Patent Practitioner (CPP) program.
The CPP credential is a professional designation that distinguishes those who have demonstrated experience, proficiency, knowledge, and understanding of patent drafting and prosecution through involvement in the patent preparation and prosecution processes.
Our mission is to assist and serve the public by establishing certification standards for patent professionals.
The CPP credential distinguishes those who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency of patent claims drafting and prosecution, protecting the intellectual property of patent stakeholders according to the guidelines of the USPTO.
The 8-hour CPP examination is designed to measure skill and knowledge for an individual who has less than 5 years of patent preparation and prosecution experience and is currently employed or seeking employment in the preparation and prosecution fields.
NCPP hosts several CLE courses per year to assist members in maintaining their CPP credential. Be sure to join our applicant list to receive advance notification of CLE course dates.
The following minimum qualifications are required for consideration as a Certified Patent Practitioner. Please consult our FAQs for additional information on CPP requirements and membership information.
0 years of experience necessary. However, some form of practical training and/or experience will help in completing the exam.
Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university.
Complete CPP application and pass an 8-hour CPP exam (a supplement to the Patent Bar exam, although the Patent Bar Registration is NOT required to become a CPP).
CPP credential holders agree to adhere to strict ethics and a code of conduct.
