Can You Trademark a Bumper Sticker?

If you are using a particular word, phrase or slogan on a bumper sticker, you can trademark it to prevent any other bumper sticker manufacturers from using it without your permission.

This information was provided by our founding attorney, Xavier Morales, Esq. 

For example, the humorous slogan “SCREW YOU, WE’RE FROM TEXAS” is a registered trademark for bumper stickers.  This entitles the owner of the trademark to stop others from using that slogan on bumper stickers without their permission.

Of course, to trademark a bumper sticker, the phrase, logo or slogan must be unique and distinct enough to merit protection. The United States Patent and Trademark Office will reject your application if they determine that your particular phrase is too generic, or too similar to someone else’s prior-registered trademark.

Further Reading

Ready to Register Your Trademark?

The Steps to Getting a Bumper Stocker Trademark

Step 1: Perform A Comprehensive Search

We will conduct a thorough trademark search to ensure your desired mark doesn’t closely resemble existing registered trademarks. Seeking an attorney's help can aid in identifying both exact matches and "confusingly similar" marks, as they have access to various databases and can discern subtle distinctions.

Step 2: File the Trademark Application

After due diligence, we file a trademark application through the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS) or its alternative, TEAS Plus. The choice between these two can impact costs and requirements; we'll provide guidance on this decision and help navigate the complexities.

Step 3: Monitor Your Application

Once the application is submitted, expect a waiting period of 4 to 6 months for feedback from the USPTO. While the initial response might be an approval, there's a possibility of receiving an Office Action or denial, but amendments can typically be made and refiled.

Step 4: Finalize Your Registration

Upon application approval, the trademark will be published in the Trademark Official Gazette for 30 days, allowing potential opposition from other companies. If opposed, the case might proceed to the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB). If unopposed, a certificate of registration will be issued, but ongoing maintenance is essential to preserve trademark rights.

Start the Trademark Process

More Common Trademark Questions

Xavier Morales, Esq.

About the Author

Xavier Morales, Esq.

Mr. Morales founded his trademark law practice in January 2007 with the goal of providing intellectual property expertise to entrepreneurs and businesses around the country. Since then, he has filed more than 6,000 trademarks with the USPTO. You can learn more about Xavier here.

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