How to Do Your Own Trademark Search

Before you invest in a name, logo, or slogan for your business, it's smart to find out if someone else already owns the rights to it. A trademark search is one of the most important first steps in protecting your brand.

This guide will walk you through how to do your own basic trademark search so you can catch potential conflicts early—and avoid costly surprises later.

What Is a Trademark Search?

A trademark search helps you determine whether a mark is already in use or registered by someone else. The goal is to avoid picking a name that’s too similar to existing trademarks—especially ones in the same industry.

Why It Matters

If your mark is too close to someone else’s, your trademark application could be rejected. Worse, you could be forced to rebrand after already investing in logos, packaging, or marketing.

Step 1: Search the USPTO Database

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) maintains a free searchable database called TESS (Trademark Electronic Search System).

Visit tmsearch.uspto.gov and start with the Basic Word Mark Search.

Enter the name or phrase you're considering. Try variations, alternate spellings, and similar-sounding terms. Your goal is to find anything that could be considered confusingly similar.

Step 2: Check for Similar Marks

Don't just look for exact matches. The USPTO examines:

• Spelling variations
• Sound-alikes
• Abbreviations or acronyms
• Similar meanings (e.g. synonyms or translated terms)
• Marks with similar commercial impressions

If your name is too close to an existing trademark in the same class of goods or services, it could be refused for likelihood of confusion.

Step 3: Look Beyond the USPTO

The USPTO database only shows registered or pending trademarks. But common law rights can exist even without registration.

Run a broader search using:

• Google and Bing
• Business name directories
• Domain registrars
• Social media handles
• App stores and eCommerce platforms

Look for businesses using similar names in your field, even if they're not officially registered. These could still pose legal risks.

Step 4: Consider a Professional Search

A basic search is a great start—but it’s not always enough. For serious brand protection, consider hiring a trademark attorney or using a professional search service.

They can identify legal risks that might not be obvious through a casual search and help you decide if a name is truly safe to use and register.

Final Thoughts

Doing your own trademark search is an important part of building a brand that lasts. It’s better to find conflicts now than face rejection—or rebranding—down the road.

If you’re serious about protecting your brand, start with a search—and get legal guidance when it matters most.

Make your mark—Tampa’s trademark attorney protects it.