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

How to Obtain an IPRS Licence in India: Step-by-Step Guide

Businesses and event organisers often need clarity about the process for obtaining permission to use copyrighted music. Whether you manage a restaurant, hotel, retail store or entertainment venue, selecting the correct licence is an important step in meeting applicable copyright obligations.

What Is an IPRS Licence?

The Indian Performing Right Society Limited (IPRS) is a registered copyright society that administers 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 under the applicable licence terms.

The correct licence depends on the activity involved. A business playing background music may need a different licensing category from an organiser arranging a live music event.

Step 1: Identify Your Music Usage

Before applying, determine how music will be used at your premises or event.

Examples include:

Background music in a restaurant or café
Recorded music at a retail establishment
Live performances at a concert
DJ entertainment at a venue
Music used by a broadcaster or digital platform
Music used in a specified online or commercial activity

Providing accurate details helps identify the appropriate licensing category.

Step 2: Visit the Official IPRS Website

Open the official IPRS website: https://iprs.org/

Navigate to the licensing section and review the available options. The official website provides licensing categories, tariff information and application links.

You can also visit: https://iprs.org/get-your-license/

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Licence Category

IPRS lists different categories for various premises and activities. Select the category that most accurately describes the intended use.

For example, a restaurant that plays background music should review the relevant premises category, while an organiser planning a live or DJ event should examine the applicable event licensing option.

The licence must actually cover the proposed use.

Step 4: Complete the Application

Follow the instructions in the relevant IPRS application process.

You may be asked to provide information about the applicant, business, venue, event or intended music use. The exact requirements depend on the application and licence category.

Ensure that the information is accurate and consistent with the intended activity.

Step 5: Review the Applicable Tariff

Before proceeding, review the current tariff and applicable licence conditions.

Check:

The relevant category of use
The applicable fee
The duration of the licence
The permitted premises or activity
Payment terms and additional conditions

Fees may differ between licensing categories, so use the official tariff rather than relying on an outdated third-party estimate.

Step 6: Complete Payment and Retain Documentation

Where a fee is payable, follow the official payment process and retain the confirmation.

IPRS provides a payment-against-estimate option for applicants who have already received an estimate. Use that route only when it matches your application status.

Do not assume that submitting a form alone means that the necessary licence has been issued. Confirm the status and obtain the relevant licence documentation before relying on it.

Step 7: Check Whether an Exception Applies

Some uses may be exempt under Indian copyright law. Genuine marriage ceremonies and the social festivities linked to them are one example.

IPRS offers an online NOC application for qualifying events exempted by law.

If you believe your event is exempt, review the applicable conditions and follow the official process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid selecting the wrong category, relying on outdated tariffs, assuming that a sound recording licence covers every copyright interest, or treating an application receipt as a final licence.

They should also verify the validity period and ensure that the licence covers the actual activity and location.

Details to Keep Ready Before You Apply

Requirements vary by licence category, but it helps to keep these details ready before you start:

Name and address of the business or organisation
Contact details of the person applying
Venue or event details, including location and dates
How music will be used: recorded, live, DJ or other
Details of any earlier IPRS licence
Any estimate or reference number you have already received

How Long Does It Take?

The time depends on the licence category and how complete your application is. Do not leave it to the last day. Apply well before your premises open or your event date, so you have time to fix any missing information.

Applying for an Event Instead of Premises

Event organisers should think about timing and responsibility:

Apply early, not on the week of the event.
Use the same event details you will give to the venue and artists.
Confirm whether the organiser or the venue is the applicant.
Share the licence copy with the venue before the event.

Renewing Your Licence

Put your licence end date in your calendar and set a reminder well before it. If your premises, activities or dates change, check whether you need an update or a new licence instead of assuming the old one still applies.

Stay Safe: Use Only Official Channels

Always use the official IPRS website for applications and payments. Be careful with anyone who contacts you offering to arrange a licence for a fee through unofficial links. Check that the website address is correct before you enter any details or pay.

To understand costs before you apply, read our guide on how IPRS fees and tariffs are fixed. If you want to understand the licence itself first, see what an IPRS licence means.

Conclusion

Obtaining an IPRS licence begins with identifying the intended use, selecting the appropriate category, reviewing the tariff, completing the official application and retaining the resulting documentation.

The safest source of information is the official IPRS website. If the intended use is unusual or falls into more than one category, contact IPRS for clarification before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I apply for an IPRS licence?

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

Can I pay an existing IPRS estimate online?

IPRS provides a payment-against-estimate option for applicants who have already received an estimate.

Can I apply for an NOC for a wedding?

IPRS provides an online NOC process for qualifying events exempted by law.

Is an IPRS licence issued automatically after payment?

Follow the official process and confirm that the relevant licence documentation has been issued.

Can I apply through an agent?

Be careful. Use the official IPRS website and channels, and check that any payment goes through the official process.

What if I only play music occasionally?

Occasional public use may still need permission, depending on the category and use. Check the official guidance instead of assuming you are exempt.

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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.