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

What Does IPRS Mean by the Term IPRS License? A Complete Guide for Businesses

Understanding the meaning of an IPRS licence is essential for businesses, event organisers and organisations that use music in public spaces. Playing music may seem simple, but copyright law can involve several distinct rights belonging to different creators and rights holders.

What Does IPRS Mean by an IPRS Licence?

The Indian Performing Right Society Limited (IPRS) is a registered copyright society that administers specified rights in musical works and associated literary works within its authorised repertoire.

An IPRS licence is written permission to use covered works for specified purposes, subject to the terms and conditions of the licence.

For instance, if a hotel plays copyrighted songs through speakers in its lobby or restaurant, that use may involve public communication of the underlying musical compositions and lyrics. Where the relevant rights are administered by IPRS and no legal exception applies, an appropriate licence may be required.

What Rights Can an IPRS Licence Cover?

The exact scope depends on the licence selected. Depending on the applicable tariff and agreement, licensing categories may address:

Public performance of music
Communication of music to the public
Music played at commercial establishments
Live performances and DJ events
Certain broadcasting or other authorised uses

Not every licence covers every type of use. A licence for one venue, event or activity should not automatically be assumed to cover a different activity.

For example, a licence for background music at a restaurant may not automatically authorise incorporating a song into an advertisement.

What Is a Blanket Music Licence?

A blanket licence can permit a licensee to use a defined repertoire across a specified category of activity for the applicable period and fee.

This can be useful for establishments that play different songs regularly. Rather than negotiating separate permissions for every work, the business may be able to use covered works under the terms of the licence.

However, a blanket licence is not unlimited permission to use all music. The repertoire, permitted uses, duration, venue category and other contractual conditions still matter.

Who May Need an IPRS Licence?

An IPRS licence may be relevant to restaurants, hotels, retail premises, clubs, entertainment venues, event organisers, broadcasters and certain digital platforms.

Whether a licence is necessary depends on how music is used, which rights are involved and whether a legal exception applies.

Purchasing a song, downloading it or subscribing to a streaming service does not automatically grant every public performance or commercial-use right.

Does an IPRS Licence Cover the Sound Recording?

Not necessarily. A song may involve separate rights in the sound recording and the underlying musical composition and lyrics.

A sound recording licence and an IPRS licence can therefore serve different purposes. The user should examine each licence and confirm whether it covers the specific rights needed for the planned activity.

How Are IPRS Licence Fees Determined?

IPRS publishes tariffs for different categories of music use. Fees may vary depending on the establishment, type of event, scale of use and other applicable parameters.

Applicants should check the current official tariff rather than rely on outdated prices or informal estimates.

How Can You Obtain an IPRS Licence?

Visit the official IPRS website and select the licensing option that matches your intended use. Review the application details, applicable tariff and licence conditions before completing the process.

Official website: https://iprs.org/choose-your-license/

A Simple Way to Think About an IPRS Licence

Think of an IPRS licence as a ticket for a specific purpose, not a key to every door. A ticket for a restaurant's background music does not automatically let you run a ticketed DJ night. Every licence has a defined use, place and period, and you should stay inside those limits.

What to Look for in Your Licence Document

When you receive a licence, read it carefully instead of filing it away. Check these points:

The licence category and type of music use covered
The premises, event or activity it applies to
The start date, end date and renewal terms
The fee, taxes and payment terms
Any conditions you must follow during the licence period
Who to contact if your plans change

Background Music vs Live Events

A restaurant that plays recorded music in the background and a promoter who hosts a concert use music in very different ways. They may fall under different licence categories and different fees. If you start adding DJ nights, live acts or ticketed shows to a venue that only had a background music licence, check whether your current licence still covers you.

Common Mistakes Businesses Make

Assuming a streaming subscription is enough for a shop or restaurant
Assuming one licence covers every branch or location
Letting a licence expire without renewing it
Believing the venue's licence automatically covers an outside organiser's event
Forgetting that sound recording rights may need a separate licence

What If You Play Music Without the Right Licence?

Using music publicly without the permissions you need can lead to complaints from rights holders, payment demands and disputes. Sorting out your licence before you start is almost always simpler and cheaper than fixing a problem afterwards.

If you are still unsure which category applies to you, read our guide on who needs an IPRS licence in India or our step-by-step guide to getting one.

Conclusion

An IPRS licence is written authorisation for specified uses of musical and associated literary works within the rights administered by IPRS. It helps businesses understand their permissions and supports the system through which eligible music creators receive royalties.

The most important step is to match the licence to the intended use and check the current IPRS terms and applicable law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an IPRS licence a permit to play every song?

No. It covers only the relevant rights, repertoire and uses specified by the licence.

Does buying a song allow public performance?

Not automatically. Purchasing a copy does not necessarily grant public performance rights.

Can an IPRS licence cover different business locations?

Do not assume so. Check the licence terms and applicable tariff for each location.

Where can I check IPRS licensing categories?

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

How long does an IPRS licence last?

It depends on the licence category. Some licences run for a set period, while others are for a particular event. Check the dates in your licence document.

Do I need a new licence if I move to new premises?

Do not assume your old licence moves with you. Check the licence terms and confirm with IPRS before you start playing music at the new location.

Releasing music?

BeON is a music marketing agency that helps artists and labels plan releases, build short-form content and grow on social media.

TALK TO BEON ↗

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.