Online filing is now available for all trademark and service mark filings!
What is a trademark or service mark and how do I register?
A trademark or service mark is a word, phrase, design, or combination of these that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services.
- A mark can be registered for a 5-year period by filing an application with the Office of the Secretary of State if the mark meets the statutory requirements for registration.
- The registration of a mark is renewable every five years. Renewals of registered marks MUST be received on or before the date the registration expires. Renewals received after the mark’s expiration date will be considered new applications.
- A mark must be in use before it can be registered with the Secretary of State's Office.
- Please note that rights granted by state registration may be affected or pre-empted by prior use or other registration of the mark. Before filing, please search currently registered marks both in South Carolina and with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The Secretary of State will not register marks that are confusingly similar to marks already registered.
FILE ONLINE! To register a trademark or service mark in the state of South Carolina, applicants may file online HERE. Owners of currently registered marks may also renew or make changes to existing registrations online.
If you need assistance in completing your application, you will need to consult a private attorney. The Trademarks Division cannot provide legal advice to customers.
Application fees submitted to the Secretary of State’s Office with a trademark or service mark application are not refundable, as provided under S.C. Code §39-15-1185.
The Secretary of State's Office investigates the possession and distribution of counterfeit goods and the fraudulent use of registered trademarks. Please contact the Investigations Division at 803-734-1728 or investigations@sos.sc.gov with any information or complaints concerning trademark and counterfeit goods violations.
To file by mail, please click the link to the PDF form for the appropriate application below: