Use of corporate names on material for sale

[Ray Court]

What is the name of your state? TX


I've heard that you can use the name of a company, like
Coca-Cola or MicroSoft when writing a book about them,
without needing their permission to use the name. What
about other forms of media? Specifically, I make timeline
posters about historical events, and also about companies
and organizations, e.g. Major League Baseball, etc.
If I want to make a timeline poster of NASCAR history,
do I need their permission to use the name? I know
I would need permission to use the logo, but I do not
plan to use it.

Thank you!