How to Search for a Trademark?

Introduction

The process of searching for a trademark can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be. The key is knowing how to search for the right keywords and using the right databases—and that's where this guide comes in handy! Here are some tools you may use when conducting your search:

Conduct your Search Carefully

When searching for a trademark, it is important that you consider all of the factors involved in the process. You should understand the search criteria and implement a strategy based on those criteria. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) offers several tools to help with this process; these include its Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS), TESS Plus, and Trademark Status & Document Retrieval (TSDR). The USPTO also has a helpful website that gives detailed information about registering trademarks with them as well as guidelines on how to conduct a successful search.

Tools for Searching Trademarks

Use the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office website (www.uspto.gov). The USPTO offers a variety of tools to help you with your trademark search process, but there are also other entities that can help as well. The USPTO database (tmdb) contains millions of records related to trademarks, including information about pending, registered and abandoned marks; published applications; trademark assignments; and status updates on pending applications or registrations.

Takeaway

The USPTO has a searchable database. You can use this to see if someone else has already registered your mark. If so, you may have to change it before you proceed with your application. The USPTO also offers a trademark search advisory service where an examiner will review your proposed mark and give you advice on whether or not to file an application based on its registrability or whether there is any likelihood of confusion with another registered mark if the mark were registered? This service costs $125 (not including fees).

Conclusion

With a trademark, you can protect your brand and your investment in it. Make sure the trademark you are using is not already registered, therefore, conducting a trademark search is extremely important.