Reexamination Statistics

These historical statistics are data for requests for reexamination filed since 7/1/1981 (for ex parte) or since 11/29/1999 (for inter partes). They are updated quarterly.

ex parte reexamination historical statistics (Updated 2/2026)
inter partes reexamination historical statistics (Updated 12/2017)

These operational statistics show quarterly volume and timing in processing requests for reexamination. They are updated quarterly.

Reexamination operational statistics (Updated 2/2026)

ex parte reexam requests that received a filing date by fiscal year

The bar chart shows reexam filings by quarter subdivided by chemical, electrical and business method, mechanical and design disciplines beginning in fiscal year 2021 quarter 1 through fiscal year 2026 quarter 1. The chart shows a gradual increase by fiscal year until fiscal year 2025 where the filings demonstrated a much higher rate of increase.

Average time to mailing of determination by filing fiscal year

Average time to NIRC from filing by NIRC fiscal year

Median time to NIRC from filing by NIRC fiscal year

The line chart shows the median pendency in months from fiscal year 2021 through quarter one of fiscal year 2026 for all reexamination requests and reexamination requests with no notice of appeal filed. The chart shows that median pendency for both have remained steady between 10 and 12 months.

Average and median time to NIRC from filing by NIRC fiscal year

The line chart shows a comparison of average overall reexamination pendency and median overall reexamination pendency from fiscal year 2021 through quarter one of fiscal year 2026. The chart shows that the median pendency is lower than the average pendency.