Understanding Font Licensing: What You Can and Can't Do
Font licensing is one of the most misunderstood areas of design. "Free" doesn't mean "free for everything." Here's what you need to know before you use any font commercially.
The Main License Types
SIL Open Font License (OFL)
The gold standard for open-source fonts. OFL fonts can be used freely for personal and commercial work, embedded in documents and apps, modified, and redistributed — with one condition: if you distribute a modified version of the font itself, it must also be released under the OFL. Google Fonts fonts are almost all OFL.
Freeware / Personal Use Only
The most common source of confusion. "Free for personal use" means you can use it for things you make for yourself — a birthday card, a personal project, a hobby website. The moment money is involved — client work, a product for sale, a business website — you typically need to purchase a commercial license from the creator.
Desktop License
Allows you to use the font in documents, presentations, and print materials. Does not usually cover embedding in apps or websites.
Webfont License
Specifically covers using a font as a web font (via @font-face or a font service). Often sold separately from desktop licenses, and often priced per number of monthly pageviews.
App / Embedding License
Required when you want to embed a font file inside a mobile app or software product. Usually the most expensive license tier.
How to Check What License a Font Has
When you download a font, look for a file called LICENSE, README, or OFL.txt in the ZIP. If there's no license file, treat the font as restricted and contact the creator. On FontPlatform, every font page shows the license type clearly — no guessing required.
Common Mistakes That Get People in Trouble
- Using a personal-use-only font on a client website — very common, and technically copyright infringement
- Using a desktop font as a webfont — these are separate rights
- Assuming Google Fonts are free for everything — they are, but always double-check the individual font's license
- Embedding a desktop-licensed font in an app — requires a separate app license
When in Doubt, Use OFL Fonts
If you want zero licensing headaches, stick to fonts with the SIL Open Font License. They cover personal use, commercial use, client work, web use, and app embedding without any additional fees. FontPlatform lets you filter by license — use the OFL filter and you'll have thousands of genuinely free options for any purpose.