Per-Track License

Audiodrome | Last Updated: March 21st, 2026 | 4 min read | Glossary

A per-track license is a music license purchased for one specific track, rather than access to a whole catalog through a subscription or blanket agreement. In practice, it usually gives permission to use that single song under stated conditions such as project type, platform, audience size, ad use, or client use.

Quick facts:
Also called: single-track license, one-track license, single-use music license in some systems
Applies to: royalty-free music libraries, stock music marketplaces, Creator Music-style single licenses, client projects, branded videos
Used for: licensing one chosen song for one project or defined use
Not the same as: subscription license, blanket license, or full-catalog access.

Example:
A creator buys one license for one background track for a single brand video. That purchase does not automatically give access to the rest of the library, and it may not cover extra uses like TV ads, multiple clients, or reusing the same track in a new campaign unless the license terms say so.

Free tools icon

Free Tools:

Which license model fits my use case? License Fit Checker

Gotchas:

  • Per-track does not always mean unlimited reuse. Some licenses are tied to one project, one channel, one end product, or one customer account. YouTube’s Creator Music FAQ, for example, says it currently supports single-use licenses.
  • Buying one track is not the same as owning the copyright. WIPO explains that licensing means the copyright owner keeps ownership but authorizes specific acts for a specific purpose and period.
  • Coverage depends on scope. A per-track license may include web and social use but exclude broadcast ads, apps, theatrical release, or client transfer rights unless those are expressly included.
  • “Royalty-free” does not mean “anything goes.” YouTube warns that it is not responsible for issues from third-party royalty-free libraries outside YouTube’s own Audio Library.

FAQs

Not always. A per-track license describes how the music is sold, one song at a time, while royalty-free usually describes the payment model after licensing. A track can be licensed per track and still be royalty-free, but the terms are not identical.

Not automatically. I cannot confirm that without the actual license terms. Some per-track licenses are broad, but others are limited to one project or one use.

Sometimes. Coverage depends on the specific license. YouTube says monetized use is safe for tracks from its own Audio Library, while outside libraries depend on their own contract terms.

Sometimes, but only if the license allows commercial or client-facing use. Business licensing sources distinguish personal creator use from commercial business use, so client delivery should be checked carefully.

Treat a per-track license as permission for one named track under a defined scope, not as a universal pass. Check project type, platform, ad use, client transfer, and reuse rights before publishing.

Related terms

Royalty-Free License • Subscription Music Library • Blanket License • Usage Scope • Commercial Use • Client Transfer Rights • License Term • Sync License