What Is a Sync License?

A sync license (synchronization license) is a legal agreement that grants a third party the right to use a piece of music synchronized with visual content — such as a film, TV show, advertisement, video game, YouTube video, or any other visual media.

Two separate licenses are required for sync placements: the synchronization license (covers the underlying composition/publishing rights) and the master use license (covers the specific sound recording). If you wrote the song and own the master, you control both. If you cover someone else's song, you need to clear the sync license from the original publisher.

Sync fees vary enormously based on the type of placement, the prominence of the music (background vs. featured), the type of media (national TV ad vs. student film), the duration of use, and the territory. Fees can range from a few hundred dollars for independent content to six figures for major TV or film placements.