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What can be registered as a trademark in Germany?
Types of trademarks
| Type of mark | Examples |
|---|---|
| Wortmarke | Word only – e.g. “Lak24”, “Ali Friseur” |
| Bildmarke | Logo or image only – e.g. the Mercedes star (without the word) |
| Wort-Bild-Marke | Word + logo design together (most common for shops and businesses) |
In your case as a shop owner, the best choice is usually a Wort-Bild-Marke (shop name + logo design).
Step 1: Check whether the name or logo is available
Before filing, you must check whether the name or logo is already in use or protected.
How to do this:
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Go to the official database:
https://register.dpma.de/DPMAregister/Marke/einsteiger -
Search for the name you want to register.
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Make sure your mark is not identical or confusingly similar to an existing mark in the same class (Nizza class).
Step 2: Choose the protection classes (Nizza-Klassen)
A trademark is not protected in general for everything – it is only protected for specific goods and services. Each area is assigned a number called a Nizza class.
Examples:
| Type of business | Suitable Nizza class |
|---|---|
| Restaurant or café | Class 43 |
| Retail store (clothing, perfumes, etc.) | Class 35 |
| Cosmetics products | Class 3 |
| Software services or apps | Class 9 or 42 |
You may choose more than one class (for additional fees).
Step 3: Prepare your information
You will need:
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The trade name or logo
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The owner of the trademark (individual or company)
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An official address in Germany
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A list of the selected Nizza classes
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If you register a Wort-Bild-Marke: a digital file of the logo (PNG or JPG)
Step 4: File with the DPMA
You have two options:
1. Online (recommended: fastest and easiest)
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Via the website: https://www.dpma.de
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Service: DPMAdirektWeb (no qualified electronic signature required)
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Fill in the online form step by step.
2. On paper by post
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Download the form W 7005
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Send it to:
Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt
Zweibrückenstraße 12
80331 München
Fees
| Number of classes | Approximate total fees |
|---|---|
| One class (1 Klasse) | About 290 € (paper filing) or 300 € (online) |
| Each additional class (from class 2) | + 100 € for each extra class |
The trademark is registered for 10 years and can be renewed.
Processing time
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Usually about 3 to 6 months until you receive your registration certificate.
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If a third party files an opposition (Widerspruch), the process may take longer.
After registration
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You receive an Urkunde (official certificate) confirming your trademark rights.
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You are entitled to prohibit others from using your name or logo in the same class.
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You may use the symbol ® next to your mark – but only after official registration.
Important notes
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Registration with the DPMA protects you within Germany only.
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If you want EU-wide protection, you must file via EUIPO.
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If you forget to select the relevant Nizza class, your trademark will not be protected in that field, even if you have paid the fees.
The authors and editorial team of the website strive to provide accurate information based on thorough research and various sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some details may be incomplete or not definitively confirmed. Please treat this article as an initial reference only and always contact the competent authorities or professionals (e.g. DPMA, trademark attorneys) for legally binding advice.
