How long does it take to get a patent approved in 2024?

If you're currently sitting on a game-changing invention, you're probably asking yourself how long does it take to get a patent approved so you can finally protect your hard work. The short answer is that it's rarely a quick process. While everyone wants their protection yesterday, the reality of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is that things move at a pace that can feel a bit like watching grass grow. On average, you're looking at anywhere from 22 to 30 months, but that's just a baseline. ...

February 5, 2026 · 6 min · Wen Tips