Trademark Registration Checklist 2026 — Documents, Class & Process
A registered trademark gives your brand exclusive rights to use your name, logo, or tagline in commerce. Trademark registration in India is handled by the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM) under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. This checklist covers everything from brand search to certificate receipt.
Before Filing — Brand Search
- ✅Search the IP India trademark database for your proposed mark
- ✅Check for identical or similar marks in your class and related classes
- ✅Confirm your mark is distinctive (avoid generic or descriptive words)
- ✅Use our free Trademark Search tool to check availability
Select the Correct Trademark Class
- ✅There are 45 classes under Nice Classification (Classes 1–34 for goods, 35–45 for services)
- ✅Class 35: Business services, retail, advertising (most tech companies and startups)
- ✅Class 42: Software, IT services, SaaS (tech companies)
- ✅Class 41: Education, training (edtech, coaching)
- ✅Class 30: Food products (bakeries, restaurants, packaged food)
- ✅File in multiple classes if your brand covers multiple product/service categories
Applicant Documents — Individual / Proprietor
- ✅PAN Card of the individual
- ✅Aadhaar Card
- ✅Address proof — utility bill or bank statement
Applicant Documents — Company / LLP
- ✅Company / LLP PAN Card
- ✅Certificate of Incorporation
- ✅Board resolution authorising trademark filing
- ✅PAN and Aadhaar of the authorised director/partner
- ✅Company registered office address proof
Trademark Mark Details
- ✅Wordmark (just the text) OR device mark (logo/design)
- ✅If device mark: high-resolution logo in PNG/JPG format (minimum 8×8 cm)
- ✅If colour mark: specify the exact colours used and claim them in the application
- ✅Description of goods/services — what the trademark covers in the selected class
- ✅Date of first use in India (or 'proposed to be used' if not yet used)
Pro Tips
💡 File as a wordmark AND device mark separately
Filing the brand name as a wordmark gives broader protection than just the logo. File both separately for maximum coverage.
💡 Priority filing for similar marks
If a similar mark exists, you can claim 6-month priority using the Paris Convention if you file abroad first. Our IP team can advise on the right strategy.
💡 Reply to examination report within 30 days
The Trademark Office issues an examination report within 3–4 months. If objected, you must file a reply within 30 days (extendable). Legal24by7 handles objection replies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a trademark valid in India?
A registered trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of application. It can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years by paying the renewal fee.
Can I use ™ before trademark registration is complete?
Yes. The ™ symbol can be used once the application is filed. The ® symbol can only be used after the trademark is registered (i.e., after the registration certificate is issued).
What is the government fee for trademark registration?
The government fee is ₹4,500 per class for individuals, startups, and SMEs; ₹9,000 per class for large entities (annual turnover above ₹100 crore or more than 100 employees).