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 maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps identify whether your proposed trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s essential for protecting your brand. A careful search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Maintain exclusivity
- Simplify the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official portal where anyone can run a trademark search. To search:
- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- View results
This platform gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
What Are 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 relevant.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while software tools 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, do 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 spot trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for new brands and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you must perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the government system supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a trademark attorney brings clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy 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
- 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
A thorough trademark search in India is the first public search tm step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, protected by law, and ready for registration.
With simple search platforms and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation.