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

What is a Trademark Search?

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 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

- 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.

 

 

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:

- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website

- Open the public search section

- Enter your keyword

- Choose the correct class

- View results

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 relevant results.

 

 

Why You Should Do Both 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 that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.

This helps you spot trademarks that could lead to confusion, giving you better security before applying.

 

 

Where to Do Trademark Searches

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 simplify trademark checking for new brands and help ensure your trademark is ready to file.

 

 

Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks

If your trademark includes a logo, you’ll need to perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal 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 depth to the process. Professionals:

- Know trademark law deeply

- Spot potential conflicts

- Suggest alternatives

- Support filing and follow-up

For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of check trade mark mind.

 

 

Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark

Once your search confirms the mark is clear, 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 officially registered.

 

 

Conclusion

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 easy-to-use tools and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation.