The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Public Search Facility (PSF), located in Alexandria, Virginia, provides public access to patent and trademark information in a variety of formats, including online, microfilm, and print. Visit our page about using the PSF to learn more about our online records and historical patent and trademark collections.
Librarians and other USPTO trained staff are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to help you find the information you need and provide technical and searching assistance. Individuals and groups can also make an appointment to receive a guided tour of the historical displays and information about public searching of patent and trademark collections.
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Visit us
The USPTO Public Search Facility is located in USPTO headquarters at 600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314.
The Public Search Facility entrance will be on the left if you enter the Madison Building (at the center of the complex) from the Dulany Street entrance. Visit our parking and transportation page for more information.
Make sure to review the rules of conduct in Public Information Facilities [PDF-62KB].
Hours of operation
Entry to the PSF is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Self-service access is permitted Monday through Friday from 5-8 p.m. to those with a previously issued smart card ID badge. (Read about getting a visitor's badge).
Research assistance is only offered from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The facility is closed on weekends and federal holidays. Refer to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website for current Washington area federal government operating status information.
Getting a visitor badge
You can get a visitor's badge from Security at the entrance of the PSF. Make sure to bring a valid photo ID. This badge is only for use in the PSF from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and must be returned when you leave. You cannot get a visitor's badge for the PSF after 5 p.m.
Free access and printing
There are no fees for using the automated systems. Unlimited searching, printing, and copying of all patent and trademark information within the Public Search Facility is available at no charge.