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 Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters

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

- 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. Identifying the proper class ensures your search is accurate.

For example, a clothing label usually search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system 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 differently.

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

 

 

Tools for Trademark Search in India

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?

While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings clarity 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 mind.

 

 

From Search to Registration: Next Steps

Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:

- Filling forms

- Choosing categories

- Submitting payments

The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.

 

 

Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks

A proper trademark search in India is the most important step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, legally safe, and ready for registration.

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