Registered Designs in the UK

A registered design is a monopoly right gained through registration in the UK. A design must be new and have individual character. Designs that are dictated solely by their technical function, or which are contrary to public policy or accepted principles of morality, are not registrable.

Current design law allows for market testing a design by the potential registrant before registration, without invalidating the right to register the design. A UK registered design lasts for an initial 5-year period and is renewable for a total of 25 years.