IPRS & MUSIC COPYRIGHT / 05 MIN READ · OCTOBER 9, 2026 · BY BEON

How Are IPRS Licence Fees and Tariff Rates Fixed in India?

Music licensing fees are an important consideration for restaurants, hotels, retail establishments, entertainment venues and event organisers. Before using music publicly, businesses often want to understand how much a licence will cost and why fees differ between establishments.

What Are IPRS Tariff Rates?

IPRS tariffs are published fee structures that apply to different categories of music use. They help determine the charges applicable to a particular licence, depending on the type of establishment, activity and relevant licensing conditions.

The applicable fee should be checked against the current tariff for the particular activity.

Why Do IPRS Licence Fees Differ?

Different businesses use music in different ways. A restaurant may play background music throughout the day, while a concert organiser may use music during a large public performance.

Because these activities are different, their licensing categories and fees may also differ.

1. Type of Establishment

IPRS lists licensing categories for different types of premises and activities, including restaurants, bars, retail premises, hotels, offices, entertainment venues and other establishments.

The relevant category is an important starting point when determining the applicable tariff.

2. Nature of Music Use

A business may use recorded background music, host live performances, organise DJ events or communicate music through other means.

The applicable tariff can depend on the category of use and the rights involved. A licence for one activity should not automatically be assumed to cover every other activity.

3. Scale and Circumstances of Use

The relevant tariff may take account of circumstances associated with the venue or entertainment category. Applicants should review the precise criteria in the current published tariff rather than assume that a single factor determines the price.

4. Applicable Licence Period and Conditions

Some licences may be issued for a specified period, and certain charges may be payable annually in advance. Other arrangements may apply to particular events or uses.

Applicants should confirm the licence duration, payment terms and renewal requirements in their specific agreement.

Where Can You Check the Current IPRS Tariff?

The safest approach is to use the official IPRS website rather than relying on outdated articles or unverified fee tables.

Visit: https://iprs.org/choose-your-license/

The website provides licensing categories and links to relevant tariff information and application processes.

How to Estimate Your IPRS Licence Cost

1. Describe the premises or event accurately.
2. Identify whether the intended use involves recorded music, live performances, DJ entertainment, broadcasting or another activity.
3. Check the corresponding IPRS licensing category.
4. Review the current tariff and its conditions.
5. Confirm whether the quoted fee covers the full intended use.
6. Check applicable taxes, payment terms and licence duration.
7. Retain the written estimate, licence and payment confirmation.

Do not assume that a price quoted to another business will apply to your establishment.

Are IPRS Fees the Same as Sound Recording Licence Fees?

No. Different licences can cover different copyright interests. A sound recording rights holder may administer rights in the recorded track, while IPRS administers specified rights in musical works and associated literary works within its repertoire.

Where both sets of rights are relevant, the total licensing arrangements may involve separate fees.

Can You Obtain an Exemption From IPRS Tariffs?

Some activities may fall within copyright exceptions. Qualifying marriage ceremonies and associated social festivities are one example addressed by Indian copyright law.

However, an exception should not be assumed to apply to every event or commercial use.

Questions to Ask Before You Pay

• Which licensing category does my business or event fall under?
• Does the fee cover recorded music, live music, DJs or all of them?
• Which premises, dates and activities does the licence cover?
• Are taxes included or added on top?
• When does the licence end and how do I renew it?
• What happens if my plans change during the licence period?

Event Licences vs Premises Licences

A shop or restaurant that plays music every day has different needs from someone organising one concert. Some licences are issued for a period of time for premises, while other arrangements apply to specific events. Pick the option that matches how often and how you use music, so you do not pay for cover you do not need or miss cover you do.

Why You Should Not Rely on Old Fee Tables

Fee tables you find on blogs, forums or old PDFs may be outdated. Tariffs can be revised, and a screenshot of someone else's invoice will not match your category or situation. Always confirm the current tariff on the official IPRS website before you budget.

Budgeting for Music Licensing

Treat music licensing as a regular business cost, like electricity or insurance. Set aside a budget, note renewal dates and remember that a sound recording licence may be needed in addition to an IPRS licence. Our guide on why two licences may be needed explains why.

Where the Fee Goes

Licence fees are not just a cost for businesses. They fund the royalties that go to lyricists, composers and publishers whose work you use. If you are a creator who wants a share of this system, read our IPRS guide for artists.

Conclusion

IPRS licence fees are determined through published tariffs designed for different types of music use. The applicable rate may depend on the establishment category, nature of entertainment, circumstances of use and other tariff conditions.

To obtain an accurate estimate, consult the current official tariff, select the correct licensing category and confirm the scope of the proposed licence directly with IPRS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are IPRS licence fees fixed?

IPRS publishes tariffs for different licensing categories, so the applicable fee depends on the relevant category and conditions.

Where can I find IPRS tariff rates?

Visit https://iprs.org/choose-your-license/.

Do restaurants and hotels pay the same fee?

Not necessarily. The applicable licensing category and tariff conditions may differ.

Can I use an old IPRS tariff table?

Verify that the tariff is current before relying on it.

Are taxes included in the IPRS licence fee?

Check the estimate and tariff carefully. Confirm whether applicable taxes are included or added separately.

What if my event details change after I apply?

Tell IPRS and confirm whether your licence still covers the new details before the event.

Read next.

• What Does IPRS Mean by the Term IPRS License? A Complete Guide for Businesses
• How to Obtain an IPRS Licence in India: Step-by-Step Guide
• Why Is an IPRS Licence Required Even After Obtaining a Licence From PPL, Novex or RMPL?

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Disclaimer. The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. BeON shall not be held responsible for any loss, damage, legal claim, or action taken based on the information provided herein. Copyright laws, licensing requirements, and tariff rates may change from time to time. Readers are advised to verify all information on the official IPRS website and other relevant official sources before taking any action. Where necessary, readers should consult a qualified legal professional to understand their specific circumstances. BeON does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or current applicability of the information presented in this article.