MasterCard Rules (PDF)

Trademarks and Service Marks
4.2 General Rules for Use of the Mark
4.2.6 Particular Use of a Mark
4.2.6.1 Generic Use
A generic term, such as “bank card” or “payment card”, does not function as a
Mark. Use of a Mark in a manner that would tend to genericize that Mark or
otherwise result in the loss of trademark rights is prohibited.
4.2.6.2 Use of Modifiers
A Customer is permitted to use its name or a geographical designation in
conjunction with the MasterCard Word Mark, such as “California MasterCard
card program” or “First Issuer MasterCard Department.” The Corporation may
prohibit the use of a modifier that it determines will impair the distinctiveness
of any Mark or create any likelihood of confusion or reflect poorly on the
Corporation.
4.2.6.3 Use on Stationery
Subject to the Standards, a Licensee is permitted to use a Mark on print or
electronic stationery, letterhead, envelopes, and the like for the purpose of
identifying its Program or service. If the MasterCard Word Mark is used, the
Licensee’s name must appear in close proximity to it, such as “Superior National
Bank MasterCard® Department.”
4.2.6.4 Use on Non-Licensed Goods
A Mark may not be used in a manner likely to create the impression that any
good or service offered by the Licensee or Sub-licensee is sponsored, produced,
offered, approved, sold by, or otherwise affiliated with the Corporation. Each
Licensee must ensure that each of its Sub-licensees, partners, Merchants, and
other Program participants does not apply a Mark to any good or service not
expressly covered under the terms of a License.
4.2.6.5 Use on Checks
A Mark may not be placed on a check, except as permitted by a “Master
Checking” License.
4.2.6.6 Use on Cards
Standards governing the use of Marks on Cards, including but not limited to
multiple application Chip Cards and other Cards displaying co-residing Marks,
are set forth in the Card Design Standards System, available on MasterCard
Connect, which are incorporated into these Rules by reference.
©1969–2012 MasterCard. Proprietary. All rights reserved.
4-4 12 December 2012 • MasterCard Rules