If you wish, you can file a search request for your patent application before you file your request for examination, subject to a fee:

• Go to the website of the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) and open the option "Forms and more" under the tab "Service". Then click on "Patents."
• Download the "Request for the grant of a patent" and enter all the information you have, for example your personal and address details and the designation of your invention. You can fill in the form directly on the computer or print it out and edit it by hand.
  • Note: Under item 7 of this form you will find the option "Search request - Determination of prior art without examination (Sec. 43 Patent Law)".
  • If you have any questions, you can also contact the Central Customer Service of the DPMA.
• Tick the checkbox "Search request".
  • Note: The search request requires a patent application.
• Sign the form and send it with your attachments to the address indicated in the form.
• In addition to sending it by mail or fax, the DPMA also offers you the option of electronic transmission.
• Transfer the search fee due.
• You will receive a detailed search report, including documents that may be relevant for the examination of the patentability of your invention.
• If the search request is filed before or at the same time as the request for examination, the search will be carried out first and a preliminary assessment will be made as to whether the invention applied for is protectable and whether the application is sufficient.