What Is a Font License?
A font license is a legal agreement between you and the font owner (foundry or distributor) that defines how, where, and how much you can use a typeface. Without a valid license, using a font — even one you downloaded — is copyright infringement.
The EULA: Your Contract
The End User License Agreement (EULA) is the document that governs your rights. It is usually included with the font download or available on the vendor's website. Key sections to read:
- Permitted uses — desktop, web, app, print, broadcast
- Prohibited uses — embedding, redistribution, modification
- Usage limits — pageviews, domains, users, impressions
- Territory — geographic restrictions (rare but exist)
- Term — perpetual vs subscription-based
Common License Types
Desktop License
Allows installation on a set number of computers for use in design applications (Photoshop, Figma, InDesign). Does not permit web embedding.
Web Font License
Permits serving font files to visitors via @font-face or a web font service. Often priced by monthly pageviews or annual traffic.
App / Embedded License
Required when bundling fonts inside mobile apps, PDFs, e-books, or software products.
Server / Enterprise License
Covers fonts used in automated document generation, email rendering, or server-side PDF creation.
Broadcast / Video License
Needed for fonts appearing in TV, film, streaming, or motion graphics.
Pricing Models
| Model | How It Works | Example Vendors |
|---|---|---|
| Perpetual | One-time purchase, often with update limits | MyFonts, FontShop |
| Subscription | Monthly/annual access to a font library | Adobe Fonts, Monotype Fonts |
| Pay-as-you-go | Per pageview or per impression | Fonts.com web licenses |
| Free / Open Source | No cost, but with usage restrictions | Google Fonts (OFL) |
Red Flags in License Agreements
Watch for these common restrictions:
- "Desktop use only" — your website needs a separate web license
- Pageview caps — exceeding limits requires an upgrade
- Single domain — subdomains or staging environments may not be covered
- No modification — subsetting or converting formats may violate terms
- Audit rights — the licensor can request proof of compliance
How to Stay Compliant
- Catalog every font on your website and in your design workflow
- Match each font to its license — keep receipts and EULA copies
- Re-read licenses after redesigns — new weights or pages may change requirements
- Automate detection with FontScanner to catch unlicensed fonts early
Conclusion
Font licensing is not optional for commercial websites. Understanding EULAs and license types is the first step toward protecting your business from infringement claims that can cost thousands of dollars.