What is a "Declaration of Use"?

A "Declaration of Use" is specifically a document filed to demonstrate that a trademark is being actively used in commerce. This is particularly relevant for trademarks that are registered or those that are in the process of being registered. When a trademark owner submits a Declaration of Use, they confirm that the trademark is not just a theoretical claim but is actually being employed in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered, thus preserving the validity of the registration.

This process is crucial because it helps maintain the integrity of the trademark register by ensuring that only those trademarks that are genuinely in use continue to be protected. This is a requirement under U.S. trademark law to prevent "deadwood" trademarks—those that are not being used—from occupying space on the register.

The other options presented do not correctly capture the nature or purpose of a Declaration of Use. While a statement regarding a trademark's registration status provides important information, it does not specifically indicate whether the mark is in use. A legal document asserting a claim against a trademark refers to different legal proceedings, not the use of a trademark. Lastly, a record of trademark licensing agreements pertains to contracts related to the use of the trademark rather than proof of its active use.