Knowing font license types is crucial for anyone who uses typography in design or business. According to Creative Bloq, each font is governed by specific legal terms that dictate where and how it can be used. Misusing a font can lead to costly copyright issues. Thus, read on to learn how to use font licensing for commercial use or personal one!
Key Takeaways
- Understanding font license types prevents legal issues and fines.
- Check license before using fonts in commercial projects.
- Choose licenses matching usage: print, web, app, or broadcast.
An Overview of Font License Types and Their Rules
Generally speaking, a font license is a legal agreement that explains how a font can be used. Each font has unique rules because designers protect their creative work. These rules cover personal, commercial, print, digital, or web usage.
Knowing font licenses helps you use fonts legally and avoid a font licensing issue like copyright that can lead to fines or project delays. Therefore, always check the license before adding a font into any project.
10 Font License Types You Must Know Before Applying
To help you stay compliant, we’ll show you ten types of licenses for fonts in a table format. Make sure to understand each one before using them in your design projects!
|
License Type |
Usage Type | Commercial Scope |
|
Desktop |
Graphics, documents, print, merchandise. | Personal and small commercial. |
|
Web Font |
Font licensing for websites. |
Up to 500,000 monthly page views. |
| E-Pub | Books, e-books, magazines, newspapers. |
Unlimited print and sales. |
|
Social Media Content Creator |
Social media content. | Personal and small commercial. |
|
Trademarked Logo |
Brand/product logo (non-app/game). | Unlimited sales and marketing. |
| Extended | Brand/logo + all media (web, social, e-pub). |
Unlimited usage and sales. |
| App/Game | Apps, games, DLC (Downloadable Content), themes, skins. |
Unlimited downloads and users. |
|
Server |
User-generated content platforms (e.g., Canva, Figma, Capcut). | Unlimited users, visitors, content. |
| Broadcast | Video, film, motion graphics, TV commercials. |
Unlimited marketing and media use. |
| Corporate | All media (print, web, app, game, broadcast) |
Unlimited global usage. |
Note: All font license types above come with lifetime access and include OTF, TTF, and WOFF font formats, except the desktop license, which only includes OTF and TTF.
Tips for Choosing the Right Font for Your Project
After learning about the types of font licenses, you might wonder, how do font licenses work, and which one fits your design project best. Follow these tips to know how!
- Choose a font that fits your project’s tone and message.
- Make sure the font is clear and easy to read at any size.
- Confirm the font license covers your intended use.
- Preview the font on print, web, and mobile for consistency.
- Combine fonts that work well together without cluttering the design.
Keep Your Designs Compliant with Font License Types
As you wrap up your design project, keep in mind that mastering what type of font license you need begins with clarity. By knowing your usage needs, you can avoid costly mistakes and secure the right permissions.
For a smooth experience, check out the exclusive premium font licensing hub by Creatype Studio. We offer various font license types alongside quality typefaces built for professional use. So, avoid fines with the right font license now!
