How Long Does a Trademark Last? Renewal Deadlines Explained

Published by the Registry Consulting team · How we researchSources linked in this guideNot a law firm · no legal adviceTalk to a trademark attorney

Updated November 1, 2026

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Registry Consulting is an independent information site, not a law firm, and does not give legal advice. Guides are general information about U.S. trademark law.

Quick answer: A U.S. trademark registration can last forever, as long as you keep using the mark and file the required maintenance documents: a declaration of use between the 5th and 6th years after registration, and a combined declaration and renewal every 10 years.

Many registrations are cancelled not because of disputes but because the owner missed a maintenance deadline.

Maintenance timeline

When	What to file
Between years 5 and 6 after registration	Section 8 declaration of use (optionally with a Section 15 declaration of incontestability)
Between years 9 and 10, and every 10 years after	Combined Sections 8 and 9 declaration of use and application for renewal
Grace period	A 6-month grace period after each deadline, with an extra fee

What you'll need

A current specimen showing the mark in use with the goods or services, and the USPTO fee. Delete any goods or services you no longer offer.

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If you miss the deadline

If the deadline and grace period pass, the registration is cancelled and you would need to file a new application.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Trademark rules and fees change; confirm current details on the USPTO website or with a licensed attorney.

Frequently asked questions

Do trademarks expire?

A registration is cancelled if maintenance filings aren't made, but it can be kept alive indefinitely with continued use and timely filings.

How long does a trademark last without renewal?

Without the year 5-6 filing, a registration is cancelled after the 6th year plus grace period.