How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps

What is a Trademark Search?

A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps determine whether your proposed trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.

Performing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally secured.

 

 

Why is Trade Mark Search Important?

Doing a trade mark search prior to filing is not just smart—it’s essential for ensuring success. A careful search lets you:

- Avoid choosing already-used marks

- Save money from rejected applications

- Avoid legal fights

- Maintain exclusivity

- Simplify 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

- Open the public search section

- Enter your keyword

- Choose the correct class

- View results

This tool gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.

 

 

Understanding Trademark Classes

Each trademark belongs to 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, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.

 

 

Why You Should Do Both Phonetic and Wordmark Searches

When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for identical or similar spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.

This ensures you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better security before applying.

 

 

Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks

The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:

- Search filters

- Legal guidance

- Detailed reports

These tools make the process easier for small find trademark businesses and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.

 

 

How to Check Logo Trademarks

If your trademark includes a logo, you must perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.

This ensures your design or icon doesn’t conflict with 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

- Recommend changes

- Handle the registration process

For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.

 

 

After You Search: What’s Next?

Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can file your trademark. This includes:

- Preparing documents

- 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 ready for registration.

With simple search platforms and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation.