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

Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know

A trademark search means reviewing existing applied or approved 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 distinctive and legally secured.

 

 

Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters

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

- Avoid legal fights

- 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

- Choose the correct class

- View results

This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks 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. Identifying the proper 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.

 

 

Phonetic and Wordmark Searches

When checking for trademark availability, run 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 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 businesses and give confidence that 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 visual mark check. 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 infringe on another registered design, avoiding legal issues.

 

 

The Value of Expert Guidance for Trade Mark Searches

While anyone can search, a legal expert brings experience to the process. Professionals:

- Know trademark law deeply

- Spot public search of trade marks potential conflicts

- Suggest alternatives

- 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 available, you can start the application process. This includes:

- Filling forms

- Choosing categories

- Paying government fees

The process then enters review, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.

 

 

Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks

An early 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 simple search platforms and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation.