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 means reviewing existing applied or approved trademarks in the government-maintained database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps identify whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process reduces the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains unique and legally protected.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s essential for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official website where anyone can perform 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
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark is grouped into 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 search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match find trademark check looks for same or close spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled differently.
This ensures you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Smart filters
- Legal guidance
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for small businesses and help ensure 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 device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the government system 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 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.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, 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 brand assets are free to use, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation.