The USPTO Change Address or Representation form, commonly called CAR, handles specified trademark address and representation changes. It can be used to revoke or appoint counsel, change certain contact information, or replace the primary attorney with another already-appointed attorney. Patent representation uses a different procedure. [1][2][3]
Identify the task before opening the form
Changing the owner’s mailing address, appointing a new lawyer, and asking an attorney to withdraw are not identical actions. USPTO provides a separate attorney-withdrawal form for appropriate situations. CAR also does not transfer trademark ownership or change an owner’s name through an assignment transaction. [1][2]
Find the current form through USPTO’s official forms guidance. Confirm the serial or registration number, owner, attorney record, and any upcoming deadline before beginning. A private firm’s internal change notice does not necessarily update the USPTO record.
The signer depends on the change
To revoke all previously appointed attorneys, USPTO requires the owner or a person authorized to bind a juristic owner to sign. The former or proposed new attorney cannot simply sign that revocation in the owner’s place. Other changes, such as updating an appointed attorney’s information or adjusting associate attorneys, have different signature rules. [1]
For example, moving a case from one firm to an unrelated firm can require an owner-authorized revocation and appointment. Replacing a primary attorney with an associate already appointed in the record is a different selection. Use the form questions that match the actual relationship.
Review, submit, and confirm
- Verify owner and matter identifiers.
- Select the precise change and complete the required contact fields.
- Obtain the correct authorized signature.
- Review the generated submission and save the confirmation.
- Check the public case record and future correspondence routing.
USPTO’s CAR guidance states that the form has no filing fee. Filing it does not automatically extend an office-action or maintenance deadline. [1]
Patent matters require patent authority
MPEP402 explains patent powers of attorney, including the applicable applicant and signature requirements and the PTO/AIA forms. Do not submit a trademark CAR form to change patent counsel. [3] For consequences of missed deadlines, compare reviving a trademark registration and reviving an abandoned patent application.
Primary sources
- USPTO: CAR and Attorney Withdrawal Form Guidance
- USPTO: Correspondence and Attorney Forms
- USPTO MPEP402: Patent Powers of Attorney
Sources checked: October 31, 2026.