Step-by-Step Guide to Trademark Registration in India

By Clear Fillings

Published on Oct 26, 2025

 In today’s competitive market, a trademark plays a vital role in distinguishing your brand from others. It gives your products or services a unique identity and legal protection against imitation. Whether you are a startup, small business, or established company, trademark registration in India is an essential step to safeguard your brand name and logo.

This detailed guide explains the step-by-step process for trademark registration in India, its benefits, and important tips to make the process smooth.

🔹 What Is a Trademark?

A trademark is a unique symbol, logo, word, name, or combination of these that represents your brand. It helps customers identify your business easily. For example, the “tick mark” of Nike or the “bitten apple” logo of Apple Inc. are famous trademarks.

In India, trademarks are governed by the Trade Marks Act, 1999, and are registered through the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks (CGPDTM) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

🔹 Why Is Trademark Registration Important?

Registering a trademark provides several advantages:

• Exclusive Ownership Rights – Only you can use the mark for your goods or services.

• Brand Protection – Prevents others from copying or using a similar mark.

• Legal Security – Gives you the right to take legal action in case of infringement.

• Increases Brand Value – Builds trust among customers and enhances goodwill.

• Global Recognition – A registered trademark can be used for international filing.

For many new entrepreneurs, consulting a trademark registration consultant in Chennai or trademark registration consultant in Madurai helps in understanding the process clearly and avoiding errors.

🧾 Step-by-Step Process for Trademark Registration in India

Let’s look at the entire registration process in a simple and structured manner.

Step 1: Choose a Unique Brand Name or Logo

The first step is to decide on a distinctive name, logo, or slogan that represents your business. Avoid common or generic words that describe your product directly (for example, “Best Clothing”). A unique and creative name increases the chance of approval.

You can use the official IP India website (https://ipindiaonline.gov.in) to check if your desired name or logo is already registered by someone else.

Step 2: Conduct a Trademark Search

Before applying, conduct a trademark availability search to ensure no similar marks exist.
You can do this by:

• Visiting the Trademark Public Search tool on the IP India website.

• Selecting the class related to your product or service.

• Entering your proposed trademark name.

This step helps avoid legal disputes and rejection later.

Step 3: Determine the Trademark Class

Trademarks are categorized into 45 different classes based on goods and services.
For example:

• Class 25 – Clothing and apparel

• Class 35 – Advertising and business management

• Class 43 – Food and drink services

You must select the correct trademark class during registration. A professional consultant can help identify the right class for your business.

Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents

To apply for trademark registration online, keep the following documents ready:

• Applicant’s name, address, and nationality

• Business registration certificate or partnership deed

• Logo or brand name (in JPEG format)

• Power of attorney (Form TM-48) if filed through a consultant

• Proof of business (GST, MSME certificate, etc.)

If you are a new entrepreneur, you can seek help from a trademark registration consultant in Madurai or Chennai to handle documentation properly.

Step 5: File the Trademark Application (Form TM-A)

Once your documents are ready, you can file the application either online through the IP India portal or offline at the Trademark Registry Office.

• Online Filing: Visit https://ipindiaonline.gov.in, create an account, and submit Form TM-A.

• Offline Filing: Submit the form at your regional trademark office (Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Ahmedabad).

The government filing fee for individuals and startups is ₹4,500 per class, and for companies, it is ₹9,000 per class (subject to change).

After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment number to track your trademark registration status online.

Step 6: Trademark Examination

After filing, the application goes for examination by the Trademark Registrar. The examiner reviews your mark for uniqueness, legality, and compliance with the Trademark Act.

• If the examiner finds no issue, the mark proceeds to publication.

• If there are objections, you will receive an examination report. You must respond within 30 days with clarification or supporting documents.

A trademark registration consultant can assist in drafting a proper reply to avoid rejection.

Step 7: Publication in Trademark Journal

Once accepted, the trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for four months.
This allows the public to raise any objections or oppositions if they believe your mark is similar to theirs.

• If no opposition is filed, the application moves to registration.

• If an objection is raised, a hearing will be scheduled by the Registrar.

Step 8: Trademark Registration Certificate

If no opposition arises or you win the hearing, your trademark will be approved and registered.
You will receive a Trademark Registration Certificate bearing the TM (™) or R (®) symbol.

Once registered, your trademark remains valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely by paying renewal fees.

🧠 Useful Tips for Smooth Trademark Registration

• Choose a unique and creative name to avoid rejection.

• Always conduct a thorough trademark search before filing.

• Select the correct trademark class for your products/services.

• Keep all documents and proof of usage ready.

• Use the help of a registered trademark consultant to prevent errors.

• Monitor your trademark status regularly through the official website.

✅ Conclusion

Trademark registration in India is not just a legal requirement—it’s a smart business decision. It safeguards your brand identity, enhances credibility, and helps you grow confidently in the market.

Whether you’re filing the application yourself or seeking professional help from a trademark registration consultant in Chennai or Madurai, understanding the process ensures a smoother and faster registration.

Protect your brand today and make your business name legally yours!