In India’s rapidly growing automobile and transportation sector, building a trusted brand is crucial for standing out in a crowded market. But with popularity comes the risk of imitation. Competitors, counterfeiters, or even unaware businesses might use similar names, logos, or designs. This is where Class 12 Trademark Registration becomes your strongest legal shield.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Class 12 Trademark Registration in India—from its meaning, covered goods, importance, step-by-step process, fees, documents, benefits, and much more.
🚗 What is Class 12 in Trademark Classification?
Every product or service is categorized under specific Trademark Classes based on the Nice Classification system, which is used worldwide. Trademark Class 12 specifically covers goods related to vehicles and transportation equipment.
Products Included in Class 12:
- Automobiles (cars, trucks, buses)
- Motorcycles, scooters, bicycles
- Electric and hybrid vehicles
- Tractors, agricultural vehicles
- Parts of vehicles (chassis, engines, brakes, gearboxes, axles)
- Tires, rims, bumpers, mudguards
- Boats, ships, marine vehicles
- Aircraft, drones
- Mobility aids (wheelchairs, scooters for the disabled)
- Railway rolling stock
What’s NOT Covered in Class 12?
- Vehicle-related software (Class 9)
- Fuel, lubricants (Class 4)
- Vehicle repair and maintenance services (Class 37)
- Vehicle advertising and sales services (Class 35)
Knowing this distinction is important to file your application correctly.
🛡️ Why is Class 12 Trademark Registration Important?
1. Prevents Brand Imitation
The primary goal is to protect your brand identity from copycats. Registration ensures legal ownership of your brand name, logo, or product design in the automobile category.
2. Establishes Exclusive Rights
Once registered, you hold exclusive rights to use the trademark for Class 12 goods across India.
3. Protects Customer Trust
Brand duplication leads to fake, low-quality products, harming customer trust. A registered trademark helps customers distinguish genuine products.
4. Strengthens Legal Position
In case of infringement, your trademark certificate becomes the strongest legal proof in court, simplifying actions against imitators.
5. Increases Business Value
A registered trademark is an intangible asset. It boosts your brand’s market valuation, helps in franchising, licensing, and attracting investors.
📝 Who Should Register Under Class 12?
- Automobile manufacturers and assemblers
- Electric Vehicle (EV) startups
- Auto parts and accessories manufacturers
- Tractor and farm vehicle producers
- Boat, ship, and marine vehicle companies
- Drone and aircraft manufacturers
- Wheelchair and mobility aid makers
Whether you’re a startup or an established business, Class 12 trademark registration is essential for brand security.
📊 Class 12 Trademark Registration Statistics in India
- India registers over 10,000+ trademarks annually under Class 12.
- EV startups are among the fastest-growing applicants.
- Automotive parts and accessories companies form a large share of Class 12 filings.
- Major brands like Tata Motors, Mahindra, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto consistently file new trademarks under Class 12.
This shows how crucial trademark protection is in this category.
📝 Step-by-Step Process for Class 12 Trademark Registration in India
1. Trademark Search
- Use the IP India Public Search Tool to check if your desired trademark is already registered or similar to existing ones.
- This helps avoid conflicts and rejection.
2. Choose a Unique Name/Logo
- Select a distinctive brand name, logo, or product name.
- Avoid generic, descriptive, or commonly used terms.
- Coined and invented words have higher chances of approval.
3. File Application (Form TM-A)
- File online through IP India’s trademark portal.
- Clearly mention Class 12 as the relevant class.
4. Pay Government Fees
- ₹4,500 for individuals, startups, MSMEs (per class)
- ₹9,000 for companies, LLPs (per class)
5. Examination by Trademark Registrar
- The application is examined for uniqueness, conflicts, and legal compliance.
- An examination report is issued within 30-45 days.
6. Respond to Objections (if any)
- If objections are raised, submit a reply within 30 days.
- You may need a hearing to clarify your case.
7. Publication in Trademark Journal
- If approved, your trademark is published in the Journal for a 4-month opposition period.
- If no oppositions are raised, it moves to registration.
8. Trademark Registration Certificate
- Upon successful completion, you’ll receive the official Trademark Registration Certificate.
Total Time: 8-12 months (may vary)
📑 Documents Required for Class 12 Trademark Registration
- Trademark name/logo image (wordmark or device mark)
- Applicant’s identity proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport)
- Business registration proof (GST, Incorporation Certificate)
- MSME/Udyam Registration Certificate (for fee benefits)
- Power of Attorney (if filing through agent/attorney)
- Address proof of business operations
Make sure all documents are clear, valid, and up-to-date to avoid delays.
💰 Cost of Class 12 Trademark Registration
| Applicant Type | Govt. Fees | Professional Fees | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 depend on legal firms or trademark consultants you hire.
🔐 How Class 12 Trademark Protects Your Brand from Imitation
Legal Safeguard
With a registered trademark, you can:
- Send Cease & Desist notices to infringers
- File opposition against similar trademarks
- Initiate civil/criminal lawsuits for infringement
- Claim monetary damages for brand misuse
Market Exclusivity
No other business can legally use your trademark for Class 12 goods, ensuring your brand remains exclusive in the market.
Enhanced Brand Recognition
Registered trademarks come with the ® symbol, enhancing customer trust and brand authenticity.
Deterrent Effect
A registered trademark is publicly searchable. Potential infringers avoid copying registered brands due to legal consequences.
🌍 What About International Protection?
If you plan to export or expand globally, you can protect your brand under the Madrid Protocol. It allows you to register your Class 12 trademark in multiple countries through a single application, saving time and cost.
🚫 Common Mistakes in Class 12 Trademark Registration
- Filing Under Wrong Class
Many businesses mistakenly file under Class 9 (for electronics) instead of Class 12. This leaves vehicle-related goods unprotected. - Skipping Trademark Search
Not conducting a thorough search often leads to objections, rejections, and legal disputes. - Choosing Descriptive Names
Generic names like “Speedy Motors” or “Indian Auto Parts” face high chances of rejection. - Incomplete Applications
Missing documents, wrong applicant details, or unclear logos delay the process. - Ignoring Renewal
Trademark registration is valid for 10 years. Failing to renew on time can lead to losing protection.
🏆 Examples of Popular Class 12 Trademarks in India
| Brand | Registered Marks |
|---|---|
| Tata Motors | Tata Safari, Nexon, Punch |
| Hero MotoCorp | Splendor, Karizma, Xtreme |
| Mahindra | Thar, XUV700, Bolero |
| Bajaj Auto | Pulsar, Chetak, Avenger |
| TVS Motors | Apache, Jupiter, iQube |
These trademarks are registered under Class 12, protecting their brand identity in the automobile sector.
📈 Advantages of Class 12 Trademark Registration
- Legal ownership of your brand name and logo
- Protection against imitation and counterfeit products
- Builds customer trust and brand loyalty
- Enhances business credibility
- Boosts company valuation
- Supports business expansion via franchising and licensing
- Acts as an intangible asset in company balance sheets
- Enables easy legal action against infringements
📝 Conclusion: Don’t Leave Your Brand Unprotected
In the competitive automotive and transportation industry, your brand is your biggest asset. Class 12 Trademark Registration in India is essential to protect this asset, prevent imitation, and ensure market exclusivity.
Whether you’re launching a new product or scaling an established brand, securing a Class 12 trademark is a smart, long-term investment.
🚀 Need Help with Class 12 Trademark Registration?
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in trademark registration services across India. From trademark search to final registration, we handle everything to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience.
📞 Contact us today and protect your brand from imitators before it’s too late.
VMK Professionals – Your Trusted Partner in Trademark Protection.
