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

What is a Trademark Search?

A trademark search is about examining existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps determine whether your desired trademark is free to use or if it overlaps with any existing mark.

Doing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally secured.

 

 

Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search

Doing a trade mark search prior to filing is not just wise—it’s crucial for ensuring success. A careful search lets you:

- Avoid choosing already-used marks

- Save money from rejected applications

- Avoid legal fights

- Maintain exclusivity

- Simplify the registration process

Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be rejected, 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:

- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website

- Open the public search section

- Enter your keyword

- Choose the correct class

- Check for matches

This tool gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and pending applications, 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. Choosing the correct class ensures your search is relevant.

For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.

 

 

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 catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better security before applying.

 

 

Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks

The Indian IP Office provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer extra features like:

- Search filters

- Expert analysis

- Detailed reports

These tools make the process easier for startups 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 device mark search. 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 match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.

 

 

Professional Assistance for Trademark Search

While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings clarity to the process. Professionals:

- Understand classification systems

- Identify hidden risks

- Recommend changes

- Handle the registration process

For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.

 

 

After You Search: What’s Next?

Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:

- Preparing documents

- Selecting classes

- Submitting payments

The process then enters examination, 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 brand assets are unique, protected by law, and fit for filing.

With easy-to-use tools and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with trade mark search india clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation.