How to trademark a name and logo in Georgia?

Registering a trademark in Georgia involves securing the exclusive rights to use a specific name or logo in connection with your goods or services. You can register your trademark at the state level with the Georgia Secretary of State or at the federal level with the USPTO.

1. Determine the Appropriate Jurisdiction

• State Registration protects your trademark only within Georgia.
• Federal Registration provides nationwide protection across all U.S. states.

Choose the registration level based on the geographic scope of your business operations.

2. Conduct a Trademark Search

Before applying, conduct a thorough search to confirm your name or logo is not already in use:

• Use the Georgia Secretary of State’s online database for in-state trademarks.
• Use the USPTO’s TESS (Trademark Electronic Search System) for federal-level trademarks.

3. File the Trademark Application

For Georgia (State Level):

• File online via the Georgia Corporations Division website.
• Provide a clear image of your logo (if applicable), a description of goods/services, and the date of first use in Georgia.
• Pay the filing fee (currently $15 per classification).
• Approval time: approximately 1 to 2 weeks.

For Federal Registration (USPTO):

• File online through the USPTO website.
• Provide your mark, business details, usage information, and goods/services classifications.
• Fees start at $250 per class.
• The process includes examination, publication, and possible opposition. Processing may take 8 to 12 months.

4. Maintain Your Trademark

• Georgia trademarks last for 10 years and are renewable.
• Federal trademarks require maintenance filings at the 5–6 year mark, and then every 10 years.