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 overlaps 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 before registering is not just smart—it’s essential for ensuring success. A careful search lets you:

- Steer clear of already-used marks

- Reduce costs from rejected applications

- Avoid legal fights

- Ensure your brand is unique

- Speed up the registration process

Without proper checking, your trademark application might be denied, 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 find trademark search is focused.

For example, a clothing label usually search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.

 

 

Different Types of Trademark Checks

When checking for trademark availability, perform 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 differently.

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

 

 

Where to Do Trademark Searches

The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, government 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 clear to register.

 

 

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 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.

 

 

The Value of Expert Guidance for Trade Mark Searches

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, 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 needs a strong foundation.