A national German trademark offers protection of word, picture, 3-D representation, sound, smell, position etc. for goods and services. It can be defended against identical and similar younger trademarks. A trademark doesn't have to be new and also can be attained by publicity. A German trademark can be applied for and registered at the Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt (DMPA) in Munich. The maximum protection duration for a German trademark isn't restricted.

A Community Trademark can be applied for and registered at the Office for Harmonization in the International Market in Alicante. At the moment, it is valid in the 28 states belonging to the European Union and is extended automatically to the states which join the European Union after the application. The maximum protection duration of a Community trademark is not limited also.

An international trademark needs a national basic registration or application in Germany , the EU or another state. It is applied for at the respective national office and registered at the international registration office in Geneva. Some states are subject to special rules concerning application and renewal fees. Protection can be attained also afterwards as subsequent designation in over 90 international states at the moment. The maximum protection duration isn't restricted also.