Selling Used Fonts: What the License Agreement Says

Many of us have found ourselves in a situation where we bought a font we no longer wish to use but still possess the extra license. The question of whether one can sell such a font to other users arises. This article aims to explore whether it is permissible to sell second-hand fonts under the original license agreement.

Understanding Font Licensing

Font licensing refers to the agreements that come with the purchase of any font. These agreements outline the usage, distribution, and limitations, among other things, ensuring that fonts are used correctly and ethically. The legality of selling second-hand or unused fonts largely depends on the specific terms of the license agreement you purchased the font under.

Common License Types and Their Implications

The most common types of font licenses include Freeware, Commercial Use, and Personal Use.

Freeware

Freeware fonts typically have very permissive licenses, often allowing users to install and use them on any number of computers or devices. However, re-selling or redistributing these fonts is usually prohibited.

Commercial Use

Fonts for commercial use often include more stringent restrictions. These licenses may not allow for the resale of fonts, or they may require that the purchaser’s name or a credit to the original font creator be attached to any products using the font. Always read the fine print to understand the exact details of the license.

Personal Use

Fonts for personal use are typically non-transferable. This means that if you no longer intend to use the font, you cannot sell it to someone else. Reselling them often contradicts the terms of personal use licenses and can lead to legal issues.

Case Study: Real Examples of License Agreements

To illustrate the implications of different license types, consider the following examples:

Example 1: Commercial Use License

“Customer may not resell, redistribute, transfer, or assign any portion of the font nor use it for personal or commercial work that would be considered resale. Customer must maintain this font as the original purchaser and must not share, distribute, or sell the font to others.”

Example 2: Personal Use License

“Customer may not assign, sublicense, or transfer the font in any manner. License is personal to the Customer and, except as expressively described otherwise, non-transferable.”

Legal Considerations and Best Practices

Before attempting to resell a font, it is crucial to ensure compliance with the original license agreement. Here are some best practices:

1. Read the License Agreement

Thoroughly review the license agreement to understand the specific restrictions and limitations. Each font is unique, so the terms may vary.

2. Contact the Creator or Distributor

If you are unsure about the terms, the easiest way to confirm is by contacting the original font creator or the distributor. They can provide clarification and possibly offer alternative solutions.

3. Seek Legal Advice

In cases where the terms are ambiguous or overly restrictive, consulting with a legal professional can help ensure that you are acting within the bounds of the license agreement.

Conclusion

While the answer to whether you can sell used fonts you no longer wish to use depends on the specific terms of the license agreement, the general consensus is that personal use licenses usually do not allow for reselling, while commercial use licenses may have strict conditions. Ensuring compliance by carefully reading the license agreement and seeking clarification when needed is crucial. By doing so, you not only avoid legal issues but also contribute to maintaining a culture of integrity and respect in the design community.