How Much is it Worth For public search of trade marks
Trade Mark Search in India Made Easy: A Guide to Quick and Effective Checks
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search is about examining existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps identify whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally secured.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s crucial for ensuring success. A thorough search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Speed up the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official portal where anyone can run a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Check for matches
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark falls under 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 focused.
For example, a clothing label usually fall under Class 25, while tech products often go find trademark under Class 9. Understanding this system 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 wordmark search looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better security before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The CGPDTM provides a free, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
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 image-based 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 anyone can search, a legal expert 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 peace of mind.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Final Thoughts on Trademark Search
A proper trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, protected by law, and ready for registration.
With simple search platforms and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation.