How to Register a Trade Mark in the UK

Registering a trade mark gives you exclusive rights to use your brand name, logo, or slogan in the UK for the categories of goods and services you specify. New to trademarks? Read our guide on what a trademark is first.

How Long Does It Take?

Step 1: Search the Trade Mark Register

Before filing, search the IPO trade mark database for any existing marks that might conflict with yours. Look for:

• Identical marks in the same or similar classes
• Similar marks that could cause consumer confusion
• Marks with a reputation that might be damaged by association

Also search the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) database if you plan to trade in Europe. A UK trade mark does not provide protection in the EU post-Brexit.

Step 2: Choose Your Classes

Trade marks are registered in classes under the Nice Classification system. There are 45 classes — 34 covering goods and 11 covering services. You must specify which classes apply to your business.

It is worth being thorough — if you expand into new areas later, you'll need to file a new application for those classes and the mark will only be protected from that later date.

Step 3: File Your Application

Apply online at the IPO website. You'll need:

• A clear representation of the mark (word, logo, or other sign)
• A list of goods and services, organised by class
• Your name and address (or your agent's)
• Payment of the application fee

Step 4: Examination

The IPO examines your application on two grounds:

• Absolute grounds — is the mark inherently registrable? Descriptive, generic, or non-distinctive marks may be refused.
• Relative grounds — does the mark conflict with an earlier registered mark? The IPO will search its own database.

If the examiner raises objections, you will receive an examination report and have the opportunity to respond — either by amending your application or arguing against the objections.

Step 5: Publication

If the application passes examination, it is published in the UK Trade Marks Journal. From the publication date, there is a 2-month window during which third parties can file a notice of opposition if they believe your mark would harm their own rights.

If no opposition is filed, the process moves automatically to registration.

Step 6: Registration

Once the opposition period passes without challenge (or any opposition is successfully overcome), your trade mark is registered. You'll receive a certificate of registration and the mark enters the public register with your name as the proprietor.

The registration is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year increments (renewal fee: £200 per class online).

Do You Need a Trade Mark Attorney?

You can file a trade mark application yourself — there is no legal requirement to use an attorney. However, a professional search and filing service significantly reduces the risk of costly mistakes. Consider using an attorney if:

• Your mark is in a crowded field with many potential conflicts
• You need protection in multiple countries
• Your mark is borderline distinctive and may require arguing to the examiner
• You receive an opposition