The Blog on public search tm
The Blog on public search tm
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the official database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps determine whether your chosen trademark is available or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process reduces the risk of infringement and ensures your trademark identity remains unique and legally secured.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s critical for ensuring success. A thorough search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Maintain exclusivity
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official platform where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- View results
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.
What Are Trademark Classes?
Each trademark falls under a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Identifying the proper class ensures your search is focused.
For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.
Why You Should Do Both Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This ensures you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind find trademark before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, official search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Search filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you’ll need to perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t conflict with another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of mind.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters examination, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Conclusion
An early trademark search in India is the most important step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, legally safe, and ready for registration.
With simple search platforms and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page