How to register logo trademark in USA?

To register a logo trademark in the USA, follow these steps:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

First, verify that your logo doesn't replicate any existing trademark by searching the database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office using the Trademark Electronic Search System called TESS.

2. Decide on Filing Basis

You can choose either "use in commerce" if you are already using it in business or "intent to use" if you plan on using it in the near future.

3. Prepare Your Trademark Application

• Format: An application can be made as a standard character, stylized/design, or sound mark.
• Classes: Specify the class(es) of goods or services that would appropriately fit your logo. The USPTO requires the use of the International Classification System.
• Specimen: If filing based on "use in commerce," the applicant must submit evidence, known as a "specimen," that shows the mark in use.

That is, the mark should be used in commerce on products, packaging, or marketing materials.

4. File Your Application with USPTO

• Go onto the USPTO website and click on the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS) section.
• The options include TEAS Plus, TEAS RF, and TEAS Regular. The cheapest option is TEAS Plus, but it requires the applicant to follow strictly the guidelines provided by the USPTO. The application fee is in the range of $250-$350 per class of goods/services.

5. Track Your Application

Once submitted, track the status using the Trademark Status and Document Retrieval (TSDR) system. If the USPTO requires more information, it will send an Office Action.

6. Receive Approval or Refusal

If your application is approved, your trademark will be published in the Official Gazette for a 30-day opposition period. If no opposition against it is filed, your logo trademark will move on to registration.

7. Final Registration and Maintenance

• After registration, the trademark should be kept renewed by periodic filing of a Declaration of Use between the 5th and 6th year and every 10-year renewal document.

Thus, a protected trademark for a company logo will extend protection to brand identity in all areas within the United States and raise business visibility to the next level, where trusted corporate services like One IBC USA come into play with full support in complicated international trademark requirements.