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 hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps determine whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Performing 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.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just wise—it’s essential for avoiding problems. A thorough search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Streamline 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 offers an official platform where anyone can perform a trademark search. To search:
- Visit 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 platform gives you visibility into both registered trademarks 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. Choosing the correct class ensures your search is focused.
For example, a clothing label usually search under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting precise results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, perform both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for identical or similar spellings. A sound-based check finds names public search tm that sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.
This ensures 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 extra features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade 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.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While anyone can search, a trademark attorney brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of mind.
Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Conclusion
A thorough trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, legally safe, 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.