How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search involves checking existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps verify whether your chosen trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search prior to filing is not just smart—it’s critical for protecting your brand. A thorough search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Speed up the registration process
Without careful checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry offers an official website where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Check for matches
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
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 accurate.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, perform both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better security before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The CGPDTM provides a free, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for small businesses and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your trademark includes a logo, you’ll need to perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t infringe on another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a trademark attorney brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- 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:
- Preparing documents
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark trade mark search india is officially registered.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
An early trademark search in India is the most important step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With simple search platforms and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation.