top of page

Can Children Be Patented Inventors ?
Yes, children can have patented inventions, but there are some specific considerations and procedures involved in the process.
While a child may not have the legal capacity to file a patent application on their own due to age restrictions, they can still be the inventors of an invention.
Here's how the process works
Children Can Be Inventors :_)
Key Points To Consider:
-
Invention Ownership:
-
A child can be named as the inventor on a patent application. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and other patent offices around the world do not have age requirements for inventors, so a child who has created an original invention can technically be listed as the inventor.
-
-
-
Filing the Patent Application:
-
Guardian/Representative: Since children are not legally able to sign contracts or manage legal matters on their own, a parent or legal guardian must file the patent application on their behalf. The parent or guardian will typically act as the "applicant" and sign all documents associated/ The child is still listed as the inventor, but the parent or guardian will be the official applicant who manages the filing and all related legal matters with the patent process.
3. Patent Rights:
-
If a child is listed as the inventor, they are entitled to the rights associated with the patent, but those rights will be managed by the parent or legal guardian until the child reaches the age of majority (typically 18 in most jurisdictions).
-
In some cases, a trust might be established to manage the proceeds from the patent until the child is old enough to take over the rights.
4. Patent Types: -
-
Utility Patents: For inventions that offer a new and useful process, machine, or composition of matter.
-
Design Patents: For new and original ornamental designs for an article of manufacture.
-
Provisional Patents: These are a simpler and less expensive way to establish an early filing date for an invention before the full application is submitted.
5. Examples of Children with Patents:
-
There have been several examples of young inventors who have successfully patented their creations.
For example, Gitanjali Rao, a 15-year-old inventor, received recognition for her innovations and filed patents related to her inventions, including a device to detect lead in drinking water.
-
Summary:
-
While children can be inventors and listed as the creators on patent applications, a parent or legal guardian must handle the legal and filing process on their behalf. Once the child reaches adulthood, they can take full control of their patent rights.
This is an exciting opportunity for young inventors, as patents can provide protection for their inventions and open doors for commercial opportunities in the future. -
-



bottom of page