Back to: Trademark Process

A drawing and a specimen serve different purposes. A drawing illustrates what your trademark is, while a specimen demonstrates how you use your trademark in connection with your goods or services. Ensure your trademark appears on your specimen in a way that matches your drawing type.

How Drawing Type Affects Submission Requirements

Every application must include a depiction of the trademark you wish to register, called a “drawing.” Drawings can be either standard character (text only, no stylization, color, or design) or special form (stylized, includes color, or design elements).

You choose which version of your trademark to include in your drawing. The drawing type determines the level of protection you receive. If the wording is most important, select a standard character drawing. If a design or stylization is crucial, opt for a special form drawing. Registering in standard characters usually provides the broadest protection.

Learn more about the types of drawings, the protection each provides, and their different requirements: [USPTO Drawing Types Guide](https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/apply/types-drawings)

One Trademark Per Application

Each application is limited to a single trademark. If your trademark has multiple variations, you must file a separate application for each one you wish to register.

For example, if your trademark is “MTV,” you might file four separate applications:

• • A standard character drawing for the word “MTV.”
• • A special form drawing for “MTV” in a stylized font.
• • A special form drawing for the MTV design.
• • A special form drawing for the MTV stylized font.

Deciding whether to file for one or multiple variations of your trademark depends on your situation and priorities. Small businesses often file only for a standard character drawing due to cost and broad protection. Larger companies may file for every variation. Choose the drawing type that fits your needs and resources. For more guidance, see [USPTO Trademark Basics](https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/basics).

Specimens: Evidence of Trademark Use

To register your trademark with a use-in-commerce filing basis, you must submit a specimen. The specimen demonstrates how your trademark is actually used with the goods or services listed in the application and serves as proof of what consumers see in the marketplace.

For instance, if registering your trademark for goods, your specimen can be a photo showing your trademark on a label or hangtag, on packaging, or on the goods themselves. Customers must be able to directly associate your trademark with your products.

For services, a specimen might be a photo of an advertisement or brochure displaying your trademark with those services. Alternatively, you may submit a screenshot of your website if it features your trademark in connection with the services. When submitting a website screenshot, include the URL and the date accessed. Customers must be able to directly associate your trademark with your services. For more on specimens, visit [USPTO Specimen Requirements](https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/apply/specimen-examples).