Can I submit my business card as a trademark specimen?

Photo of Jan Buza

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

Although a business card can be an acceptable trademark specimen for services (classes 35-45), we usually don't recommend this option to clients.

Business cards usually don't include all the information to fulfil all the requirements for an acceptable specimen. Many times, they miss a clear description of the services offered.

One of the requirements for trademark specimens for services states that the specimen must include a clear reference to the applied-for services and show the mark associated with these services.

For services, we usually recommend clients submit a website screenshot or advertising material since these will naturally include a proper service description.

Please note that a business card is never an acceptable specimen for goods (classes 1-34).

You can find examples of acceptable and unacceptable specimens for your niche in our Specimen guide.

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