How Much Do You Know About public search tm?
How Much Do You Know About 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 means reviewing existing applied or approved trademarks in the government-maintained database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps identify whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process reduces the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just smart—it’s crucial for ensuring success. A thorough search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Maintain exclusivity
- Streamline the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry offers an official website where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you can check availability.
Understanding Trademark Classes
Each trademark falls under a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Selecting the right class ensures your search is accurate.
For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go public search tm under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting precise results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better peace of mind 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:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Detailed reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
If your trademark includes a logo, you’ll need to perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings experience 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.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters review, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
A proper trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are unique, protected by law, and ready for registration.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation. Report this page