Complete and submit a registration application to the USPTO.
The USPTO appoints an examining attorney to review the application.
If the examining attorney finds something wrong with the mark or application, she issues an Office Action.
If there's no problem with the application or mark, or the Office Action issues are resolved, the trademark published for objection.
If no one objects, the mark is registered provided it's is already used in public.
If the mark hasn't been used publicly, you have 6 months to file a Statement of Use showing it in commerce.
Once the Statement of Use is filed, you'll receive a Certificate of Registration.
Rejections
The mark is too like another and may cause consumers to be confused about the source of goods or services.
The mark can't be registered because it simply describes the goods or services (e.g., 'blue jeans', 'maple syrup').
There's a problem with the specimen or application that needs to be cleaned up.
The applicant's address is a P.O. Box or a virtual office space.
You have to disclaim the exclusive rights to use certain words or phrases.
After Registration
Section 8 Filing. Filed between the 5th and 6th years after registration. Verifies that the mark is still be used in commerce.
Section 15. A statement of incontestability filed after 5 years of continuous use (usually with the Section 8 statement). Prevents third party claims challenging your ownership and use rights.
Section 9 Filing. Filed between the 10th and 11th year after registration and every 10 years thereafter. It includes a Section 8 verification.
Failure to file statements as required will result in the mark being deemed abandoned.