PTO Considers Patent Bar Qualifications Amid Gender Gap Concerns

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office said it is considering changes to its criteria for people to take the patent bar exam, after lawmakers expressed concern about a gender gap among patent practitioners.

The examination—a six-hour, 100-question exam—is required to practice before the PTO as a patent agent or patent attorney. In order to take the exam, an individual must have certain scientific and technical qualifications.

The patent office is considering expanding the types of college degrees that would automatically qualify someone to sit for the exam, the PTO said this week, responding to questions from Sens. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), ...