Application success rate in Germany: 5 year trend
Trademark registration in Germany is managed by the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA - Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt).
Germany’s average trademark application success rate over the past five years stands at approximately 71.38%. While relatively stable, there has been a slight decline from nearly 74% in 2020 and 2021 to just over 67% in 2023. This trend highlights the need for applicants to be increasingly thorough and strategic when preparing trademark filings for the German market.
Applications filed in | Registered | Filed | Success rate |
|---|---|---|---|
2019 | 52,768 | 73,493 | 71.80% |
2020 | 62,135 | 84,332 | 73.68% |
2021 | 64,202 | 87,490 | 73.38% |
2022 | 51,145 | 73,080 | 69.98% |
2023 | 50,560 | 75,005 | 67.41% |
Total (average) | 280,810 | 393,400 | 71.38% |
Comparison to major IP Offices
Germany’s success rate sits just below the EUIPO (90.80%) and the Benelux (90.90%), but significantly higher than the US (56.91%) and Canada (50.76%). Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Country | Office code | Success rate |
|---|---|---|
Germany | DPMA | 71.38% |
The European Union | EUIPO | 90.80% |
Benelux | BOIP | 90.90% |
The United States | USPTO | 56.91% |
Canada | CIPO | 50.76% |
Here's what contributes to Germany’s moderate yet respectable rate:
Strict Examination Standards: DPMA examines marks for both absolute grounds (e.g., descriptiveness, distinctiveness) and potential procedural issues. While it does not conduct an ex officio search for prior trademarks, opposition filings after registration are common and should be anticipated.
Mature Trademark Environment: Germany is one of the largest economies in Europe, with a dense trademark landscape. This can lead to a higher likelihood of conflict, especially in crowded or saturated sectors.
Demand for Precision: The DPMA places strong emphasis on precision in the description of goods and services, meaning vague or overly broad filings are more likely to be challenged or refused.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in Germany
While a success rate above 70% reflects a robust and functioning system, nearly 3 out of 10 trademark applications in Germany still face refusal or issues. To improve your likelihood of approval, it’s recommended to begin with a comprehensive trademark search to identify any potential conflicts. Ensure that your mark is distinctive and not merely descriptive, and clearly define the goods and services associated with your application.
Working with a professional trademark lawyer is often the best way to navigate the system. They can help you navigate the complexities of the DPMA, handle any objections or opposition, and tailor your filing strategy for better results.
If you're planning to register your trademark in Germany, check out our step-by-step guide for maximizing your application’s success. You can also take advantage of Trama’s free lawyer’s check to get expert feedback before you file.
