Your brand is your business identity — it’s what sets you apart in a crowded market. Whether you run a startup, a growing company, or a local business, protecting your brand name and logo is essential. That’s where trademark registration comes in.
If you’re wondering how to apply for a trademark, this guide by Corpmate, Ludhiana’s trusted Trademark Consultant, will help you understand every step of the process — from filing to final registration — in simple, easy-to-follow language.
What is a Trademark?
A trademark is a legally recognized symbol, logo, word, or phrase that represents your business or product. It helps customers identify your brand and differentiate it from competitors.
For example:
- The “✓” logo represents Nike.
- The word “Amul” represents dairy products.
- The golden “M” represents McDonald’s.
By registering a trademark, you get exclusive legal ownership and prevent others from using a similar name or design for their business.
Why You Should Apply for a Trademark?
Before we explain how to apply for a trademark, it’s important to understand why you should do it.
Here are the main benefits:
- Legal Protection: A registered trademark protects your brand from misuse or copying.
- Exclusive Rights: You get full ownership of your brand name, logo, or slogan.
- Builds Brand Trust: A registered mark enhances your credibility with customers.
- Nationwide Recognition: Trademark registration protects your brand across India.
- Business Expansion: It allows you to franchise or license your brand in the future.
- Valuable Asset: A registered trademark can become an intangible business asset that adds value to your company.
If you’re based in Punjab and looking to protect your business, Corpmate’s Trademark Services in Ludhiana make the entire process smooth and stress-free.
How to Apply for a Trademark – Step-by-Step Process?
Applying for a trademark in India is now simple and can be done entirely online through the official IP India website. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for a trademark with expert support from Corpmate.
Step 1: Choose a Unique Brand Name or Logo
Before filing, make sure your brand name or logo is unique and doesn’t resemble any existing trademark. Choose something that reflects your business identity while being original and creative.
Avoid using common, descriptive, or generic words like “Best Food” or “Super Store” — such marks are often rejected.
Step 2: Conduct a Trademark Availability Search
The next step in how to apply for a trademark is to check whether your desired name or logo is available.
You can perform a trademark search on the official IP India Trademark Search Portal.
However, professional help ensures accuracy. Corpmate’s trademark experts in Ludhiana perform detailed searches to verify that your brand name is free from conflicts in all relevant classes.
Step 3: Choose the Correct Trademark Class
All goods and services are categorized into 45 trademark classes under the Nice Classification System:
- Classes 1–34 cover goods (like clothing, food, cosmetics).
- Classes 35–45 cover services (like advertising, education, consultancy).
For example:
- Class 3 – Cosmetics and beauty products
- Class 25 – Apparel and footwear
- Class 35 – Business management and consultancy
If you select the wrong class, your registration may not protect your business properly. Corpmate helps you pick the right one based on your products or services.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
To apply for a trademark, you’ll need the following documents:
- Logo or wordmark (optional, but recommended)
- Applicant’s name and address
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)
- Address proof of business
- Proof of business (Udyam certificate, GST, or partnership deed)
- Power of Attorney (Form TM-48, if filed through Corpmate)
Having complete documentation ensures a smooth filing process.
Step 5: File the Trademark Application
Once your documents are ready, the next step in how to apply for a trademark is filing the application online.
Visit the IP India Trademark Portal and fill out Form TM-A.
Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
- Applicant details
- Trademark type (word, logo, slogan, etc.)
- Description of goods/services
- Trademark class
- Priority details (if applicable)
Once submitted, you’ll receive an acknowledgment number that lets you track your application status.
From this point, you can start using the ™ (TM) symbol beside your brand name.
Step 6: Examination by Trademark Registrar
After filing, your application is reviewed by a Trademark Examiner. The examiner checks for:
- Similarity with existing trademarks
- Compliance with the Trademark Act
- Clarity and distinctiveness
If your application meets all criteria, it will be accepted. Otherwise, the Registrar may raise an objection.
Corpmate’s legal experts handle objections professionally, providing responses and clarifications to move your application forward.
Step 7: Publication in Trademark Journal
Once accepted, your trademark is published in the Trademark Journal. This gives the public a chance to raise objections (if any) within 4 months.
If no one objects, your application proceeds to the final stage — registration.
Step 8: Trademark Registration Certificate
Congratulations! 🎉
After successful examination and publication, you’ll receive your Trademark Registration Certificate from the Trademark Registry.
Now, you can officially use the ® (R) symbol with your brand name — proving that your mark is legally registered and protected.
How Corpmate Makes Trademark Application Easy?
If you’re wondering how to apply for a trademark without getting stuck in complex legal steps, Corpmate is here to help.
Our team in Ludhiana simplifies the process through expert guidance, legal accuracy, and constant support.
Here’s how we make it simple for you:
- Free Consultation: Understand your brand and eligibility.
- Trademark Search: Ensure availability and avoid conflicts.
- Class Selection: Choose the right classification for full protection.
- Online Filing: Submit accurate and complete applications.
- Monitoring & Updates: Track every stage and handle objections.
- Certificate Delivery: Get your registration certificate hassle-free.
With Corpmate’s end-to-end trademark services in Ludhiana, you can secure your brand identity efficiently and affordably.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for a Trademark
When learning how to apply for a trademark, avoid these frequent errors:
- Choosing a common or descriptive brand name.
- Skipping the trademark search step.
- Selecting the wrong class.
- Not responding to examination objections.
- Filing with incomplete documents.
Corpmate ensures all steps are handled correctly — saving you time, money, and effort.
Conclusion
Understanding how to apply for a trademark is the first step toward protecting your business identity. From name selection to registration, every stage matters — and expert help can make the journey much easier.
If you’re looking to apply for a trademark in Ludhiana, Corpmate offers trusted, affordable, and professional trademark services to secure your brand with zero hassle.
Your brand deserves the best protection — let Corpmate make it official.