Ohio Trademark Registration

An Ohio state trademark helps protect your brand name, logo, or slogan within the state. It is faster and cheaper than a federal USPTO registration, though the protection is limited to Ohio. This guide explains how to file with the Ohio Secretary of State and when a federal registration may be the better option.

Key Facts

• Authority: Ohio Secretary of State – Business Services Division.
• Application form: Trademark/Service Mark Application (Form 555).
• Filing fee: $125 per class.
• Specimens: Three specimens showing current use.
• Term: 6 years; renewal every 10 years (Ohio uses a 6-year registration, but renewals are filed every 10 years, depending on business classification).
• Scope: Protection only within Ohio.
• Federal alternative: USPTO trademark registration ($350–$550 per class) for nationwide protection.

For businesses operating across multiple states, consider a federal U.S. trademark registration.

What is an Ohio state trademark?

An Ohio state trademark is a mark registered with the Ohio Secretary of State. It helps you:

• establish exclusive rights within Ohio,
• prevent competitors from using confusingly similar marks,
• strengthen enforcement actions under state law.

It does not offer nationwide protection — for that you need a USPTO registration.

Step 1: Search existing trademarks in Ohio

Before filing, check whether your mark is available.

1. Search the Ohio trademark database
   Look for exact matches, similar spellings, phonetic equivalents, abbreviations, and similar logos.
2. Search beyond Ohio
   Use:
   • USPTO TESS,
   • domain registries,
   • social media,
   • Google search.

Step 2: Prepare your Ohio trademark application

Ohio requires:

• Owner information
• Description of goods/services
• Classification (international classes)
• Date of first use
• Three specimens showing real use

Acceptable specimens

• labels, packaging, tags,
• photographs of the mark on products,
• service advertisements,
• website screenshots showing real commercial use.

Step 3: File your application with the Ohio Secretary of State

Steps:

1. Download and complete Form 555.
2. Attach three specimens.
3. Pay the $125 fee.
4. Submit online or by mail.

Step 4: Maintain and enforce your trademark

Use the mark properly

• Use the mark as registered.
• Keep updated specimens.

Monitor for infringement

• local competitors,
• online platforms,
• marketplaces.

Enforcement options

• cease-and-desist letters,
• settlements,
• state trademark actions.

Step 5: Renewal

Ohio trademarks are valid for 6 years. Renewal requirements include:

• renewal application,
• renewal fee ($25–$125 depending on structure),
• updated specimen.

Ohio state trademark vs federal registration

If you sell beyond Ohio, consider federal registration via our U.S. trademark service.