For certain applications for federal trademark registration, a "specimen" must be submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

What is a "specimen" of use?

A specimen is an actual example of how you are using the mark in commerce on or in connection with the identified goods and/or services. This is not the same as the drawing of the mark, which merely represents what you are claiming as the mark.

What is a proper specimen for use of a mark on goods (products)?

Normally, a specimen for a mark used on goods shows the mark on the actual goods or packaging for the goods. You may submit a tag or label for the goods; a container for the goods; a display associated with the goods; or a photograph of the goods that shows use of the mark on the goods. Do not submit the actual product.

Invoices, announcements, order forms, bills of lading, leaflets, brochures, publicity releases, letterhead and business cards generally are NOT acceptable specimens for goods.

What is a proper specimen for use of a mark with services?

A specimen for a mark used in connection with services must show the mark used in the sale or advertising for the services. You may submit a sign; a brochure about the services; an advertisement for the services; a business card or stationery showing the mark in connection with the services; or a photograph showing the mark as used in rendering or advertising the services. There must be some reference to the type of services rendered on the specimen, i.e., not just a display of the mark itself. For example, if the mark sought to be registered is "XYZ," a business card that only shows the mark "XYZ" would not be acceptable. A business card that states "XYZ REAL ESTATE" would be acceptable.

How do I file the specimen?

If filing electronically, you must attach an image of your specimen in.jpg format. In order to show the context in which the mark is used, the image should include as much of the label or advertisement as possible.

If filing a paper application, the specimen submitted with the application must be flat and no larger than 8½ by 11 inches. If you submit a larger specimen, the USPTO will create a facsimile of the specimen, insert it in the application file wrapper, and destroy the original submission. However, specimens consisting of videotapes, audiotapes, CDs or computer diskettes are acceptable for marks, such as sound marks, that cannot be used any other way.

When do I file the specimen?

• For an application based on "use": If you are using the mark in commerce and you file based on that use, you should submit one specimen for each class of goods/services listed in the original application.

• For an application based on "intent to use": You must submit one specimen for each class of goods/services when filing the "Allegation of Use." See section "Additional Requirements for 'Intent to Use' Applications".

• For an application based solely on a foreign application or registration: No specimen is required.