Step-by-step guide to filling in the UK design registration form
- Minimise risk of delays or errors in your application
- Clear and easy to understand
- Practical guidance
This step-by-step guide to filling in the UK design registration form explains how to complete the paper application form (Form DF2A) to apply to register a design with the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO).
This guide will help you to fill out the application form properly, which should help you to avoid common pitfalls and minimise the risk of delays with your application.
Alternatively, consider applying online for a UK design registration (this is quicker and slightly cheaper). For a guide on filling out the online application form see Step-by-step guide to applying for UK design registration online.
Registering a design gives you broader protections against competitors copying your design than relying on unregistered design rights. For further information on what you can register as a design and when it is advisable to do so, see Designs: Design rights.
You can also buy this guide as part of the Protecting IP and confidential information toolkit.
Q&A
When should I use this document?
Use this step-by-step guide to filling in the UK design registration form if you want to register a design in the UK by post.
You should also refer to the guidance provided by the UK IPO on the application form.
It is usually quicker (and slightly cheaper) to apply for design registration online, so you may wish to consider this method instead. For a step-by-step guide to applying online, see Step-by-step guide to applying for UK design registration online.
What does this document cover?
This step-by-step guide to filling in the UK design registration form provides guidance on how to complete each required field in the paper application form.
The required fields include:
- owner details;
- representative details;
- number of designs;
- fees;
- deferral;
- explanation and representation of design;
- disclaimers and limitations;
- repeated surface pattern (if any);
- priority claim;
- declaration; and
- further details.
Why do I need this document?
You need this step-by-step guide to filling in the UK design registration form to help you complete your design application correctly, and reduce the risk of delays with your application.
If you are unsure whether you want to register your design or rely on unregistered design rights, you can find further guidance at Designs: Design rights. Registering your design gives you broader protections than relying on unregistered design rights.
Where can I find out more?
You can find out more about how and why to register a design in the UK (and/or the EU) at Designs: Design rights. If you would prefer to apply for your design registration online, use Step-by-step guide to applying for UK design registration online.
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