16May, 2025
How to Register a Class 12 Trademark in India: Step-by-Step Guide

India’s automobile and transport sector is booming with innovation — from electric vehicles to smart scooters, from luxury cars to agricultural tractors. As businesses race to build their brand identity, protecting these identities becomes vital. That’s where Class 12 Trademark Registration plays a crucial role.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Class 12 Trademark Registration in India — what it is, why it matters, the registration process, documents, fees, and how it safeguards your brand from imitation.

🚗 What is Class 12 in Trademark Classification?

Trademark registration in India is based on the Nice Classification (NCL), an international system dividing products and services into 45 different classes.

Class 12 deals with:

Vehicles & Conveyances and related parts or accessories.

✅ Goods Covered Under Class 12:

  • Automobiles: cars, buses, trucks
  • Motorcycles, scooters, bicycles
  • Electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid vehicles
  • Tractors, agricultural vehicles
  • Vehicle parts: engines, brakes, suspensions, bumpers, tires, gearboxes
  • Wheelchairs and mobility scooters
  • Boats, ships, marine vehicles
  • Aircrafts, drones
  • Railway vehicles

❌ Goods/Services NOT Covered in Class 12:

  • Fuel & lubricants: (Class 4)
  • Vehicle repair & maintenance services: (Class 37)
  • Navigation systems, vehicle software: (Class 9)
  • Advertising and dealership services: (Class 35)

🛡️ Why is Class 12 Trademark Registration Important?

1. Brand Protection from Copycats

Without a trademark, your brand name or logo can be copied by competitors. Registering under Class 12 gives you exclusive rights to your brand for vehicle-related products.

2. Builds Consumer Trust

Customers recognize registered trademarks as authentic and reliable. It boosts brand credibility in the automobile market.

3. Strong Legal Ground for Action

A registered trademark gives you the legal power to stop counterfeiters, file lawsuits, and claim damages in case of infringement.

4. Boosts Business Value

Trademarks are intangible assets. They increase your brand’s market value and help in franchising, licensing, or attracting investors.

5. Creates Market Exclusivity

No one else can legally use similar names, logos, or marks for Class 12 goods, giving you a competitive edge.

📝 Who Should Register Under Class 12?

If your business deals with:

  • Manufacturing or selling vehicles
  • Producing auto parts, tires, batteries
  • EV startups making scooters, bikes, cars
  • Boat, ship, or marine vehicle producers
  • Wheelchairs, mobility scooters, drones

Then, Class 12 trademark registration is a must to protect your brand identity.

📝 Step-by-Step Process of Class 12 Trademark Registration in India

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search

  • Visit IP India Public Search Tool to check if your desired brand name/logo is unique.
  • Look for similar marks in Class 12 to avoid conflicts and rejections.

Step 2: Choose a Distinctive Brand Name or Logo

  • Avoid generic or descriptive terms.
  • Coined, invented, or creative names are easier to protect.
  • Ensure the logo or design is unique.

Step 3: File Application (Form TM-A)

  • Submit your application online through the IP India portal.
  • Clearly mention Class 12 as the category.
  • Multiple variants (wordmark, device mark, logo) can be filed.

Step 4: Pay Government Fees

  • ₹4,500 per class for individuals, startups, MSMEs.
  • ₹9,000 per class for companies, LLPs.

Step 5: Examination by Trademark Registrar

  • An examiner checks the application for conflicts, distinctiveness, and compliance.
  • An Examination Report is issued within 30-45 days.

Step 6: Reply to Objections (If Any)

  • If objections arise, submit a detailed reply within 30 days.
  • Hearings may be scheduled to present your case.

Step 7: Publication in Trademark Journal

  • Once accepted, your trademark is published in the journal.
  • A 4-month window is given for public opposition.

Step 8: Trademark Registration Certificate

  • If no oppositions are raised, you’ll receive the Trademark Registration Certificate.
  • Your trademark gets the ® symbol.

Timeframe: Typically 8-12 months (can vary)

📑 Documents Required for Class 12 Trademark Registration

  • Brand Name or Logo Image (in JPEG format)
  • Applicant Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport)
  • Business Registration Proof (GST, Incorporation Certificate)
  • MSME/Udyam Registration (for fee concession)
  • Power of Attorney (if filing through an agent)
  • Address proof of business

💰 Trademark Registration Fees for Class 12 in India

Applicant TypeGovt Fees (per class)Typical Professional FeesTotal Cost Estimate
Individuals/MSMEs₹4,500₹5,000 – ₹10,000₹10,000 – ₹15,000
Companies/LLPs₹9,000₹5,000 – ₹10,000₹15,000 – ₹20,000

Note: Professional fees vary depending on the agency or attorney hired.

🔒 How Class 12 Trademark Registration Prevents Brand Imitation

✔️ Legal Enforcement

Once registered, you can:

  • Send Cease & Desist notices to infringers.
  • File opposition against similar trademarks.
  • Initiate civil/criminal action against counterfeiters.
  • Claim compensation for damages caused by brand misuse.

✔️ Public Notice of Ownership

Your trademark will be visible in the IP India database, discouraging others from copying your brand.

✔️ Competitive Advantage

Having a registered trademark adds exclusivity to your brand in the crowded automobile market.

✔️ Global Protection via Madrid Protocol

If you plan to export, you can protect your Class 12 trademark internationally through the Madrid Protocol, filing in multiple countries at once.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid in Class 12 Trademark Registration

  • Filing under the wrong class (e.g., Class 9 instead of Class 12)
  • Choosing descriptive or generic names
  • Skipping the trademark search before filing
  • Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
  • Ignoring oppositions or missing deadlines
  • Forgetting to renew after 10 years (risking cancellation)

📊 Class 12 Trademark Trends in India (2024-2025)

  • EV startups are rapidly filing trademarks under Class 12.
  • Increasing demand for electric scooters, bikes, and cars.
  • Leading companies like Tata, Mahindra, Ola Electric, Hero MotoCorp are active trademark filers.
  • Automotive parts & accessories companies are strengthening their IP portfolios.

This shows how competitive and protective the Class 12 trademark space has become.

🏆 Real-World Examples of Class 12 Trademarks

BrandRegistered Trademarks under Class 12
Tata MotorsNexon, Safari, Harrier, Punch
Hero MotoCorpSplendor, Xpulse, Karizma
MahindraXUV700, Thar, Bolero
Ola ElectricS1, S1 Pro scooters
Bajaj AutoPulsar, Avenger, Chetak

These registered trademarks ensure their products are protected from counterfeiters and competitors using similar names.

📝 Validity & Renewal of Class 12 Trademark Registration

  • Validity: 10 years from the date of application.
  • Renewal: Can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.
  • Renewal must be filed before expiry to maintain protection.

📈 Benefits of Class 12 Trademark Registration for Your Business

  • Exclusive Rights: Sole authority to use your brand in Class 12 goods.
  • Legal Protection: Ability to stop misuse and infringement.
  • Customer Trust & Loyalty: Registered trademarks build credibility.
  • Increases Business Value: Adds to brand valuation and goodwill.
  • Facilitates Franchising & Licensing: Easier expansion and collaborations.
  • Acts as an Intangible Asset: Valuable addition to your balance sheet.

✅ Quick Recap: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Class 12 Trademark Registration

  • Protects your brand identity
  • Shields against counterfeiters and imitation
  • Establishes exclusive ownership
  • Strengthens your legal position
  • Builds consumer trust in a competitive market

For businesses in the vehicle and transportation sector, Class 12 trademark registration is not optional — it’s essential.

🚀 Get Expert Help for Class 12 Trademark Registration

Trademark registration involves legal procedures, technical details, and strategic steps. One mistake can lead to delays or rejection.

At VMK Professionals, we provide:

  • Comprehensive trademark search & advice
  • Seamless application filing for Class 12
  • Expert handling of objections & oppositions
  • Timely updates and full registration support

📞 Contact us today to secure your brand’s future in the automotive market.

VMK Professionals – Your Trusted Partner in Trademark Protection.