When you start a business, your company name becomes one of your most valuable assets. It’s the identity your customers remember, trust, and associate with your services or products. But just registering your business isn’t enough—you need to trademark your business name to truly protect it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to register your company name as a trademark in India, and why it’s a crucial step for your brand’s long-term growth.
At AMD LAW INDIA, we help startups, SMEs, and enterprises safeguard their identity through end-to-end trademark services. If you’re ready to protect your name, read on.
Why Trademarking Your Business Name Matters
Imagine investing time, money, and effort into building a brand—only to have someone else use a similar name and confuse your customers. Or worse, they trademark it first and send you a legal notice. A trademark helps you avoid these nightmares by:
- Granting you exclusive rights to use your company name in your business category.
- Helping you build brand recognition and consumer trust.
- Giving you the legal power to stop others from using similar names.
- Increasing your business value—especially if you plan to expand or seek investment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register Company Name Trademark in India
Step 1: Check Trademark Availability
Before anything else, search the Indian Trademark Registry (IPIndia) to see if your desired name is already registered. It’s essential that your name is unique, not generic, and doesn’t conflict with existing marks.
At AMD LAW INDIA, we conduct in-depth trademark searches to rule out potential objections and improve the chances of approval.
Step 2: Choose the Right Class
Trademarks are registered under 45 different classes depending on the type of goods or services you offer. For example, software products fall under Class 9, while legal services fall under Class 45. Choosing the wrong class can invalidate your trademark.
Our legal experts will help you identify the correct trademark class aligned with your business activity.
Step 3: File the Trademark Application
Once you’ve finalized the name and class, it’s time to apply online through the IPIndia portal. You’ll need to submit:
- Applicant details (individual, company, etc.)
- A clear representation of the name/logo
- Description of goods/services
- Trademark class
- Power of attorney (if using a trademark attorney)
AMD LAW INDIA handles drafting and filing to ensure your application is clear, accurate, and complete.
Step 4: Examination by Trademark Office
After submission, the Trademark Office reviews your application for compliance. They might raise an objection if:
- Your name is too generic or descriptive
- It resembles an existing trademark
- It misleads or offends public policy
If an objection arises, we draft and submit a well-reasoned reply supported by legal precedents.
Step 5: Publication in Trademark Journal
If there are no objections (or once they’re cleared), your application is published in the Trademark Journal for public viewing. Anyone can file an opposition within 4 months.
If opposed, it may lead to hearings or further documentation. Don’t worry—AMD LAW INDIA represents you at every stage.
Step 6: Registration Certificate
If there’s no opposition (or it’s resolved), your trademark gets approved, and you’ll receive a registration certificate—your legal proof of ownership. Your trademark is now valid for 10 years, with the option to renew indefinitely.
How Long Does It Take?
On average, the entire process—from filing to approval—can take 6 to 18 months, depending on whether objections or oppositions arise.
However, once filed, you can start using the ™ symbol with your name. After approval, you’re eligible to use the ® symbol.
Costs Involved
The government filing fee is:
- ₹4,500 (individual/startup/SME)
- ₹9,000 (for companies)
Professional fees vary based on complexity. At AMD LAW INDIA, we offer affordable and transparent packages, tailored to your business needs.
How AMD LAW INDIA Can Help
We’ve helped hundreds of clients trademark business names with complete peace of mind. Our services include:
- Name availability checks
- Legal class selection
- Drafting & filing application
- Responding to objections
- Handling oppositions
- Trademark monitoring & renewals
📧 Email: support@amdlawindia.com
📞 Call: +91 99309 03222
FAQs on Registering Company Name Trademark
Q1. Can I trademark a business name before registering my company?
Yes, you can apply for a trademark under your name or as a proposed company.
Q2. What’s the difference between ™ and ®?
™ denotes a pending application; ® means your trademark is officially registered.
Q3. Can two businesses have similar names?
Not in the same trademark class. If the names are similar and the businesses overlap, it can lead to rejection or legal dispute.
Q4. How long is a trademark valid?
A registered trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed every 10 years indefinitely.
Q5. Can I file a trademark myself?
Yes, but professional guidance improves success rates, especially if objections arise.
Final Thoughts
Your company name is more than just a title—it’s a business asset. Trademarking your business name is an essential step to protect your identity, secure your rights, and build a brand that lasts.
Let AMD LAW INDIA guide you every step of the way.
Secure your business name today.