Do I need to register my trademark for my logo?

While you're not required to register a trademark, doing so offers certain legal protections and advantages. In the United States, for instance, you can establish "common law" rights to a trademark based solely on use of the mark in commerce, without registration. However, these rights are generally limited geographically to the area where you are using the mark.

Here are some advantages to registering your trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or similar bodies in other countries:
Legal presumption of ownership: Registration gives you a legal presumption of ownership of the mark in the United States. This can be incredibly important in legal disputes.
Exclusive rights: Registration grants the owner exclusive rights to use the trademark nationwide in connection with the goods and/or services listed in the registration.
Public notice: Registration allows public notice of your claim of ownership of the mark, which can help deter others from using your trademark.

Ability to bring action in court: If someone else is using your mark, having a registered trademark allows you to bring action concerning the mark in federal court.
Use of the registration symbol: Once your trademark is registered, you can use the registration symbol ®. It's illegal to use this symbol if your trademark isn't registered.
Registration can be used as basis for foreign filing: If you're planning to sell goods or services in other countries, having a registered U.S. trademark can be used as a basis for obtaining registered rights in those countries.

Can be filed with U.S. Customs Service to prevent importation of infringing foreign goods: Once your mark is registered with the USPTO, you can file it with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to prevent others from importing goods that infringe your trademark.

Remember, obtaining a trademark can be a complex process that often involves legal considerations. If you're unsure, it can be beneficial to consult with a trademark attorney or a legal advisor who is familiar with intellectual property law.