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 procedure helps determine whether your proposed trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.

Performing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally secured.

 

 

Why is Trade Mark Search Important?

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

- Avoid choosing already-used marks

- Save money from rejected applications

- Avoid legal fights

- Ensure your brand is unique

- 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

- View results

This tool 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, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for identical or similar spellings. A phonetic search finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.

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

 

 

Where to Do Trademark Searches

The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also external platforms that offer advanced features like:

- Search filters

- Legal guidance

- Trademark risk reports

These tools make the process easier for small businesses 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 visual filters and keyword tagging.

This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t infringe on another registered design, avoiding legal issues.

 

 

Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?

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 mind.

 

 

From Search to Registration: Next Steps

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

- Filling forms

- Choosing categories

- Paying government fees

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 strong brand starts with a strong foundation.