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VMC vs CMC
The two certificates that put your logo in the inbox, what each shows in Gmail, and what each requires.
Inboxes only show your logo if it's backed by a mark certificate. There are two kinds.
Logo + blue checkmark (VMC)#
A VMC proves your logo is a registered trademark owned by your company. Gmail shows your logo and a blue checkmark next to your name; tapping it explains that the sender has verified they own the domain and the logo.
You need:
- Your own domain.
- A registered trademark for the logo you want to show. We check the US trademark office (USPTO); see Trademarks.
- Email security settings at "enforcement" (we guide you through a safe rollout).
Logo only (CMC)#
A CMC is for companies whose logo isn't a registered trademark yet. Gmail shows your logo, but no checkmark.
You need:
- Your own domain.
- Proof your logo has been used publicly for at least 12 months (prior use). We check public web archives of your website for you.
- The same email security settings as a VMC.
Which should I choose?#
- You have a registered trademark: VMC. The checkmark is the strongest trust signal.
- No trademark, but your logo has been public for a year: CMC now. You can file a trademark and move to a VMC once it's registered.
- New logo, no trademark: you're not eligible yet. See Eligibility for what to do meanwhile.
The free check makes this decision for you and explains why.