1. Understand What a Trademark Is
A trademark protects:
- Brand names
- Logos and symbols
- Taglines or phrases
- Product names and service identifiers
It gives you exclusive legal rights to use the name in specific industries (called “classes”) across the UK.
2. Check If Your Name Is Eligible
To be trademarked, your name must:
- Be distinctive (not too generic or descriptive)
- Not use common words like “best” or “quality” alone
- Avoid offensive or misleading content
- Not include flags, coats of arms, or geographical indicators (without permission)
3. Conduct a Trademark Search
Before applying, check if:
- The name is already trademarked
- Similar trademarks exist in the same class
Use the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) online search tool. This avoids rejection and potential legal disputes.
4. Choose the Right Trademark Class
There are 45 trademark classes (e.g., Class 25 for clothing, Class 43 for restaurants). You can register in:
- One class (basic fee covers this)
- Multiple classes if you operate in different sectors
Pick carefully based on your business activity.
5. Prepare Your Application
You’ll need:
- The name you want to trademark
- Your name and address (or business entity)
- The classes and a description of goods/services
- An image of your logo if it includes a design
- Payment method for fees
6. Apply Online via the UK IPO
Visit the UK IPO website and complete the online form. Cost:
- £170 for one class
- £50 per additional class
The process is quicker and cheaper online than by post.
7. Wait for Examination
The UK IPO examines your application for:
- Obvious conflicts
- Technical compliance
- Proper classification
They may raise objections or request clarification. You’ll have 2 months to respond.
8. Publication and Opposition Period
If passed, your trademark is published in the Trademarks Journal for 2 months. During this time, third parties can object.
- No objections: It proceeds to registration
- Objection received: You may negotiate or contest it legally
9. Receive Your Trademark Certificate
Once approved, you receive:
- A registration certificate
- Legal rights to use ® (the registered symbol)
- Protection for 10 years (renewable)
You can now take legal action against infringers.
10. Maintain and Enforce Your Trademark
- Use the trademark consistently
- Monitor for misuse or unauthorised use
- Renew every 10 years (UK IPO will send reminders)
Enforcing your rights ensures continued brand protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I trademark a name myself?
Yes. Most UK entrepreneurs file directly through the UK IPO. Legal advice is optional but helpful for complex cases.
Q2: How long does it take to register a trademark?
Typically 3–4 months if there are no objections or delays.
Q3: Can I trademark a name before launching my business?
Yes. You can secure your name early to protect future use.
Q4: Is trademarking a name the same as registering a company?
No. Registering a business name with Companies House doesn’t give you trademark protection.
Q5: Can I trademark a name internationally?
You can file international applications through the Madrid Protocol or directly with other countries’ trademark offices.
Q6: Can two companies have the same trademark?
Only if they operate in unrelated classes or industries, and there’s no confusion between them.
Conclusion
Knowing how to trademark a name gives your business long-term protection and brand control. From checking availability to applying through the UK IPO, following these steps ensures your brand identity stays legally secured in 2025 and beyond.