State Trademark Registration in South Dakota

Register your business name, logo, or slogan with the South Dakota Secretary of State for $125 — faster and cheaper than a federal application. Note: state registration only protects you within South Dakota; most businesses eventually want federal USPTO protection for nationwide coverage.

Quick Facts

South Dakota Filing Fee$125
Filed WithSouth Dakota Secretary of State
Protection ScopeSouth Dakota only
Federal (USPTO)$250–$350/class
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State vs. Federal — Which Do You Actually Need?

A South Dakota state trademark is quick and inexpensive ($125, usually approved within weeks), but it only protects your mark within South Dakota's borders. A federal USPTO trademark costs more ($250–$350 per class) and takes longer, but protects you nationwide and gives you the right to use the ® symbol. Many businesses register at the state level first for fast, affordable protection, then add federal registration once they're operating beyond South Dakota.

How State Trademark Registration Works in South Dakota

1

Trademark Search

We search the South Dakota Secretary of State's existing trademark database to confirm your name, logo, or slogan is not already registered by someone else in South Dakota.

2

Prepare and File the Application

We prepare your application — including a drawing of your mark and the classification of goods or services — and file it with the South Dakota Secretary of State for $125.

3

Receive Your Registration

State trademark registration is typically approved within a few weeks — far faster than the months-to-years timeline for a federal USPTO application.

4

Consider Federal Protection Next

If you plan to operate outside South Dakota, or want the strongest possible protection, we can also file your federal USPTO trademark application — the state registration doesn't block this, and often strengthens your federal filing.

Protect Your Brand in South Dakota

Fast, affordable state trademark registration — with federal protection available when you're ready.