What is Font Licensing?

Font licensing is a set of rules that dictate how a font can be used. Like software, you need permission (or a license) to use a font for specific purposes. Just because a font is available for download doesn’t mean you can use it for free, especially in commercial projects like your website, marketing campaigns, or product designs.

Using a font without the proper license can lead to costly legal issues for businesses. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the different types of font licenses.

Types of Font Licenses

There are three main categories of font licenses:

1. Free for Personal Use: Many fonts are free but restricted to personal use only. This means you can use them on personal projects like greeting cards or your blog, but they’re off-limits for business purposes.
2. Commercial License: If you're using a font for business, like in logos, advertisements, or products, you need a commercial license. Fonts with a commercial license can be purchased from various font vendors or platforms. Some fonts require a one-time fee, while others need recurring payments based on usage (e.g., per view or print).
3. Open-Source Fonts: Open-source fonts, such as those available through platforms like Google Fonts, are free to use for both personal and commercial projects. These are great options for small businesses because they are free, and the licenses are usually very permissive.

How to Obtain a Font License

To get the appropriate font license for your business, you’ll typically go through one of these steps:

• Buy from a Foundry: Font foundries are companies or designers who create and sell fonts. You’ll be provided with the specific license terms when purchasing from a foundry.
• Use a Font Service: Services like Adobe Fonts or Google Fonts provide access to a library of fonts with built-in licenses. With platforms like Adobe Fonts, the cost is usually included in a subscription.
• Verify the License: Always read the terms and conditions of the license before using the font in any commercial work. Some licenses allow for broad usage, while others may restrict use based on factors like audience size or how the font is displayed.

Avoiding Legal Issues

Using fonts without the correct license can result in legal trouble, especially if your business gains visibility. Here are a few tips to ensure you're on the right side of the law:

• Always check the license: Even if a font is labelled "free," double-check whether it includes commercial rights.
• Use reputable platforms: Stick to trusted font providers like Google Fonts, Adobe Fonts, or direct font foundries. These platforms clearly indicate whether a font is free, open-source, or requires a commercial license.
• Keep a record: Always save the purchase or license documents for the fonts you use. This will help if any legal questions arise later.

Where to Get Fonts for Your Business

For small and medium-sized businesses looking for affordable options, here are a few reliable sources to obtain fonts:

• Google Fonts: A vast collection of open-source fonts for free commercial use.
• Adobe Fonts: Included with an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, giving access to an extensive library of fonts.
• MyFonts: A marketplace where you can purchase fonts with varying licensing options for web, print, or app use.

Conclusion

Font licensing may seem small, but it’s crucial for small businesses. By understanding the types of licenses and where to source fonts, you can avoid legal trouble while ensuring that your branding looks professional and consistent.

If you need help deciding which fonts to use or how to license them properly, consider seeking help from a designer or legal advisor. With the right knowledge and tools, navigating font licensing doesn’t have to be a hassle.

‍

This guide is written by Hedgehog, a Done With You digital marketing consultancy specialising in small and medium businesses in Australia. We offer digital marketing consulting, coaching, and training. 🚀

‍