Answered by a Livonia Trademark Attorney
A certification mark is a unique type of trademark with a purpose different from traditional brand protection.
Unlike standard trademarks, this mark isn’t used by its owner. Third parties use it to show they meet defined standards set by the owner.
It is a “license to use” trademark.
How a Certification Mark Works
Typical trademarks—like the Coca-Cola logo—identify who made or sold a product. This type of trademark regisration confirms that a product or service meets specific criteria.
For example, the Energy Star® logo certifies energy efficiency based on EPA standards.
A certification mark may certify:
- Quality standards
- Geographic origin
- Union or organizational membership
- Method of production
👉 Learn more about the types of trademarks
How to Register a Certification Mark
To register this type of mark, you must file an application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
The process includes unique legal requirements beyond those for standard marks. It can, like any other trademark, be a word, phrase, logo, or both.
Working with a Livonia trademark attorney ensures your application is accurate and complete.
Your certification mark application must include:
- The specific standards others must meet to use the mark
- Proof the owner does not sell the goods or services certified
- A statement confirming the mark is used only for certification
- A fair, non-discriminatory process for third-party use
You’ll also need a specimen showing how others use the certification mark in commerce.
👉 Schedule a consultation for help filing
Why Hire a Livonia Trademark Attorney?
Filing errors can delay or prevent certification mark approval.
An experienced Livonia trademark attorney helps avoid costly mistakes.
When you retain Noble Path Legal for your trademark registration, we will:
- Run a professional clearance search for your name, slogan, or logo;
- Draft your application to meet USPTO standards;
- Communicate regularly with the USPTO and with you throughout the process;
- Respond to refusals or Office Actions;
- Ensure that your Statement of Use and Specimen is properly prepared and filed;
- Help enforce proper use of your certification mark.
👉 Learn how we handle Office Actions
Work With Noble Path Legal
Noble Path Legal PLLC, d/b/a Noble Path Trademark Law, is a boutique Metro Detroit firm located in Livonia but offering Federal trademark registration, renewal, Office Action response services on a national basis.
With Noble Path Legal, you will receive:
- Flat-rate pricing for non-adversarial matters
- Expert guidance
- Virtual consultations nationwide
- Premium, one-on-one customer service.
Ready to register a certification mark? Click the button below to being the Noble Path Trademark Registration process: