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 official database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps verify whether your proposed trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.

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

 

 

Why is Trade Mark Search Important?

Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s essential for avoiding problems. A careful search lets you:

- Steer clear of already-used marks

- Reduce costs from rejected applications

- Reduce opposition risks

- Ensure your brand is unique

- Speed up the registration process

Without proper checking, your trademark application might be denied, wasting time and resources.

 

 

How to Check a Trade Mark in India?

The Trade Marks Registry offers an official portal where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:

- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website

- Open the public search section

- Enter your keyword

- 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. Selecting the right class ensures your search is accurate.

For example, a clothing label usually search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. public search tm Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.

 

 

Different Types of Trademark Checks

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 that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.

This helps you spot trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better peace of mind before applying.

 

 

Tools for Trademark Search in India

The Indian IP Office provides a free, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:

- Smart filters

- Expert analysis

- Detailed reports

These tools simplify trademark checking for startups and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.

 

 

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 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

- 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 clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:

- Preparing documents

- Selecting classes

- Submitting payments

The process then enters examination, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.

 

 

Final Thoughts on Trademark Search

A thorough trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, protected by law, and fit for filing.

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.