How to Register a Logo in the UK

Your logo is the visual face of your business. It appears on your website, products, business cards, and marketing materials. Without trademark protection, a competitor could use a similar logo and damage your brand reputation. This guide explains exactly how to register your logo as a trademark in the UK.

Why Register Your Logo as a Trademark?

• Legal protection: Prevents others from using a similar logo in your industry
• Brand value: A registered logo is a business asset that increases in value
• Use the ® symbol: Shows your logo is legally protected
• Enforcement rights: You can take legal action against copycats
• Licensing potential: You can license your logo to other businesses

What Logo Format Do You Need?

For trademark registration, your logo must be submitted as a clear, high-quality image. The UK IPO accepts:

• JPEG or PNG files (minimum 300 DPI)
• Black and white version (for broader protection)
• Colour version (if colour is essential to your brand)
• Clear representation without backgrounds or effects

Tip: Registering in black and white gives you broader protection as it covers all colour variations.

The Logo Registration Process

Step 1: Comprehensive Trademark Search

Before applying, we search the UK IPO database, EUIPO records, and common law sources to ensure your logo does not conflict with existing marks. This is included in all our packages.

Step 2: Select Trademark Classes

Your logo must be registered in the correct trademark classes for your goods or services. We help you select all relevant classes.

Step 3: Prepare and File Application

We prepare your application with the correct logo format, specifications, and class selections, then file it with the UK IPO.

Step 4: UK IPO Examination

The UK IPO examines your application for 2-4 weeks to ensure it meets all requirements.

Step 5: Registration

After a 2-month publication period with no oppositions, your logo trademark is registered.

How Much Does Logo Registration Cost?

Registering a logo in the UK costs from £490 with Register a Trademark UK. This includes the comprehensive search, application preparation, and UK IPO filing. View our full pricing packages for details.

Logo vs Word Mark: Which Should You Register?

Logo (Device Mark)	Word Mark
Protects your visual design	Protects your business name in any font
Covers the graphic elements	Covers the text itself
Best for distinctive visual logos	Best for business names

For maximum protection, register both separately.

Related Articles