What is Brand Name Registration?

Brand Name Registration is the process of legally registering the name of your business, product, or service as a trademark under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. This ensures exclusive ownership of the name and prevents others from using similar or identical brand names in the same industry.

Your brand name is more than just a label—it's your business identity. Registering it as a trademark not only gives you legal protection but also builds credibility, allows enforcement of your rights in case of infringement, and adds value to your business for partnerships, franchising, or investor dealings.

✅ Benefits of Brand Name Registration
🎯 Why brand owners must protect their name.

1️⃣ Grants exclusive rights to use the brand name in your category
2️⃣ Prevents others from copying or misusing your brand identity
3️⃣ Builds consumer trust and brand recognition
4️⃣ Adds a valuable asset to your business portfolio
5️⃣ Enables legal action in case of trademark infringement
6️⃣ Supports brand expansion across India and beyond
7️⃣ Facilitates licensing, franchising, or assignment of rights

📑 Documents Required for Brand Name Registration
📂 Keep these documents ready for a smooth process.

1️⃣ 📝 Brand Name – The name to be registered in plain text
2️⃣ 🧾 Identity Proof – Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, or Driving License
3️⃣ 🏢 Business Proof – GST Certificate, MSME Certificate, or utility bill
4️⃣ 📬 Address Proof – Communication address for legal correspondence
5️⃣ 🪪 Power of Attorney – If filing through a trademark agent or attorney
6️⃣ 📄 Trademark Class – Business activity category based on NICE classification

👤 Eligibility for Brand Name Registration
🧾 Who can apply?

• ✅ Individual entrepreneurs or freelancers

• ✅ Proprietorship firms and MSMEs

• ✅ Startups and private limited companies

• ✅ LLPs, NGOs, and associations

• ✅ Any entity using a brand name for trade or service purposes

🔄 Process of Brand Name Registration
🔁 Step-by-step registration flow.

1️⃣ Brand Name Finalization – Choose a unique and meaningful brand name
2️⃣ Trademark Search – Check if the brand name is already registered
3️⃣ Class Identification – Select the correct trademark class based on business activity
4️⃣ Application Filing (TM-A) – Submit the brand name and supporting documents
5️⃣ Examination by Registry – Govt. examines the application and may raise objections
6️⃣ Publication & Registration – If unopposed, the name is registered and certificate issued

⏱️ Timeline for Brand Name Registration
⏳ How long it takes.

• Acknowledgement of Application: 1–2 business days

• Govt. Examination: 30–60 days

• Journal Publication: 4 months

• Final Registration & Certificate: 6–9 months (if no objection or opposition)

• ™ can be used from day 1, ® after full registration

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Brand Name Registration

1️⃣ Is brand name registration the same as trademark registration?
Yes, brand name registration is done under trademark law for legal protection.

2️⃣ Can I register a brand name that includes a logo?
Yes, but that would be a combined device mark—you can also file a wordmark separately.

3️⃣ What if my brand name is already taken?
You may need to change or modify it to avoid infringement and rejection.

4️⃣ Can I register a brand name before launching my business?
Yes, early registration is ideal to secure your name before competitors.

5️⃣ Is registration valid all over India?
Yes, Indian trademark registration offers nationwide protection.

6️⃣ Can I register a brand name in more than one class?
Absolutely, multi-class applications are common for diversified businesses.

7️⃣ How long does brand name registration last?
It is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

8️⃣ What is the cost of brand name registration in India?
It depends on applicant type and legal fees, but typically starts from ₹4,500 (Govt. fee) + professional charges.

9️⃣ Can I transfer or sell my registered brand name?
Yes, registered trademarks can be licensed, assigned, or sold.

🔟 Can I use ® immediately after applying?
No, use the ™ symbol after filing and ® only after registration approval.