Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps determine whether your proposed trademark is available or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search prior to filing 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
- Avoid legal fights
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Streamline the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark 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
- Navigate to the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- Check for matches
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark belongs to 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 focused.
For example, a clothing trademark search label usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting relevant results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for same or close spellings. A phonetic search finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The CGPDTM provides a free, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for small businesses and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you’ll need to 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 infringe on another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a legal expert brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Spot potential conflicts
- Recommend changes
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy 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
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, 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 name, logo or slogan are unique, protected by law, and ready for registration.
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.