Essential Things You Must Know on trademark in india search
Essential Things You Must Know on trademark in india search
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your chosen trademark is available or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search before the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
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 careful search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Maintain exclusivity
- Streamline the registration process
Without careful checking, your trademark application might be denied, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official platform where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Choose the correct class
- View results
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
What Are Trademark Classes?
Each trademark is grouped into a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Choosing the correct class ensures your search is accurate.
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.
Different Types of Trademark Checks
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 spot trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for small businesses and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your trademark includes a logo, you must perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than trademark in india search wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t conflict with another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a trademark attorney brings clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Final Thoughts on Trademark Search
A proper trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, protected by law, and fit for filing.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation. Report this page