How to Search Trademark Names Before Registration in India?

Before applying for trademark registration, it is essential to verify whether your proposed brand name is already in use or is legally protected. A trademark search helps you identify existing or similar trademarks, assess the chances of approval, and avoid costly objections or legal disputes later.

In India, conducting a proper trademark name search ensures that your brand is unique, compliant with the Trade Marks Act, 1999, and eligible for registration under the correct trademark class. A trademark search is done before registering a trademark for a business. This saves a lot of time and money for the entrepreneur.

This guide explains how to search trademark names before registration, why it matters, and how businesses can secure their brand identity with confidence.

Where to Search for Trademarks: Trademark Database

The Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM) is in charge of overseeing trademark registrations in India. The CGPDTM website offers an online trademark search database that both professionals and non-professionals can utilize to do a search. The goal is to allow any person wishing to register a domain name to perform a search in the existing online trademark databases.

One can access the global Trademark Database via the World Intellectual Property Database Portal. The trademark database includes all applications submitted to the Indian Trademark Registrar, covering registered, pending, objected, and expired trademarks.

Trademark Search Parameters

There are three search type options available that include:

1. Word Mark – For similar representation of exact marks;
2. Vienna Code – For similar artistic representations, like images and logos, and
3. Phonetic – For phonetically similar words.
4. Classes – Goods and Services, 45 trademark classes are available.

According to the Nice Classification, Classes 1-34 deal with a variety of goods, whereas Classes 35-45 deal with services.

1. Use Word Mark Search

To do a Word Mark search, for instance, choose the “Word Mark” search type and enter the proposed trademark’s term or keywords in the box labeled “Word Mark.” You can also check out the “wordmark registration” process to ensure trademark search and approval.

As a result, you will need to type the class in the “CLASS” correction box. Additionally, the class(es) must be associated with the goods or services you offer under your brand. You can only use one class at a time to search the Indian trademark database.

Any of the prefix methods—”Starts With,” “Contains,” or “Match With”—can be used to do a Word Mark search.

2. Phonetic Search

Except for the prefix approach, the phonetic search would be the same as the Word Mark search method described above. As a result, you may use the previously described procedure to do a phonetic search for the trademark.

3. Vienna Code Search

In order to identify a similar device mark, the Vienna code search is primarily used. To do this, enter the six-digit Vienna code that corresponds to the term “Vienna code” and choose the appropriate class. Following the search, every mark containing the device would be displayed in the result table.

4. Trademark Classes Search

A trademark class search helps you identify the correct class for your goods or services before filing a trademark application. Since protection is granted class-wise, choosing the right class ensures your brand is legally safeguarded against similar marks in the same category.

You can also use RegisterKaro’s trademark class search tool to get accurate results instantly.

An accurate class search also reduces trademark objections, avoids conflicts with existing trademarks, and increases the chances of smooth registration under the Nice Classification system.

How to Search Trademarks in India?

Follow these simple steps to conduct a trademark search in India before filing your application:

Step 1: Visit the Official Trademark Portal
Go to the IP India Trademark Public Search portal and select the “Trademark” search option.

Step 2: Choose the Search Type
Select Word Mark, Phonetic, or Vienna Code based on whether you are searching for a name, similar-sounding words, or a logo/device mark.

Step 3: Enter the Trademark Details
Type your proposed brand name, logo details, or Vienna code. Use prefix options like Starts With, Contains, or Match With for broader results.

Step 4: Select the Relevant Trademark Class
Choose the correct class (1–45) that matches your goods or services under the Nice Classification. Only one class can be searched at a time.

Step 5: Review the Search Results
Check existing trademarks for similarities in name, pronunciation, or visual appearance. Pay close attention to “Registered,” “Objected,” or “Opposed” statuses.

Step 6: Evaluate Risk and Proceed
If no conflicting marks exist, you can safely proceed with trademark filing. If similarities appear, modify your mark or seek professional advice before applying.

This procedure raises your chances of a successful trademark registration while assisting you in avoiding infringements.

Understanding Trademark Search Results by Illustration

The following illustrated example explains the trademark search results for the word ‘Classmate’ under Class 16, which covers stationery products.

The search list results display a list of all the trademarks that start with the word “Classmate” registered under class 16. It is no surprise that ITC Limited is the owner of the word mark “Classmate” under Trademark Class 16, which covers stationery and paper products. Selecting the “show details” option displays the trademark application number, filing date, owner details, validity period, usage date, and a clear description of the registered goods.

A search could bring up a number of matches, and understanding the search status is essential for interpreting the implications. If the search returns “no matches found”, then there are no registered or applied trademarks that match the query. Further, conduct a trademark database search using different match types or a modified query.

Always ensure that your proposed trademark is not similar to any existing trademarks, as similarity can lead to rejection during registration.

Importance of Trademark Search

Conducting a trademark search is a crucial first step before applying for trademark registration in India. It helps you assess whether your proposed brand name, logo, or symbol is already in use or registered by someone else. A proper search reduces legal risks and improves approval chances.

Why is trademark search important?

• Avoids infringement risks: Ensures your trademark does not conflict with existing registered or pending marks.
• Saves time and cost: Prevents rejection, objections, or opposition after filing.
• Checks brand uniqueness: Confirms that your brand name or logo is distinctive and legally protectable.
• Strengthens application success: Helps you file in the correct class with accurate details.
• Prevents future disputes: Minimizes chances of legal notices, lawsuits, or forced rebranding.
• Supports brand strategy: Allows informed decisions before investing in marketing and branding.

A thorough trademark search lays the foundation for smooth registration and long-term brand protection.

Ending Note

Performing a trademark search prior to registering is an essential measure for safeguarding your brand and guaranteeing adherence to legal regulations. Knowing how to search for trademarks in India will reduce the possibility of disputes and raise the likelihood of a successful registration.

By taking a proactive stance with expert service providers like RegisterKaro, you can protect your brand’s reputation and stay clear of future expensive legal conflicts. As a result, devoting time and energy to thorough research is crucial to building and preserving a powerful brand presence. Contact Now for immediate processing.

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