Are You Using Fonts Illegally? What You Need to Know About Typography Licenses

At some point, you’ve probably had to pick a font – maybe for an Instagram graphic, a PDF, a website refresh, or a logo for one of your many biz ideas (I’ve been there!) But what most people don’t realize is that fonts come with rules. And those rules are called typography licenses.

Typography licenses outline how and where fonts can be used. And breaking those terms – even without knowing – can lead to legal issues, takedowns, or just a really inconsistent brand experience. And I hate to break it to you, but even Canva fonts come with limits (we’ll get to that).

So let’s break it all down. Here’s what we’ll cover:

1. What is a typography license?
2. Common types of typography licenses
3. Canva fonts and the big myth
4. Risks of using unlicensed fonts
5. How to know what license you need
6. How to read a font license (without losing your mind)
7. Where to buy legitimate font licenses
8. Should you just hire a designer?
9. How fonts influence the feel of your brand
10. Recap: what you actually need to remember
11. FAQs

What is a typography license?

A typography license is permission → a legal agreement that outlines where and how you’re allowed to use a specific font. Think of it like software – you don’t own the font, you’re just paying for the rights to use it in certain ways.

Fonts are considered intellectual property. That means someone designed them, and just like with music, photography, or writing, there are boundaries around how their work can be used.

Typography licenses exist to protect that creative work. But they also help you as a user because using fonts legally gives your brand clarity, consistency, and trustworthiness. It’s not just about avoiding legal trouble. It’s about creating a polished, cohesive experience where your design choices are intentional and your assets are legit.

Common types of typography licenses

Here’s where things can get confusing. Not all typography licenses cover the same kind of use, and the one you need depends entirely on what you’re doing with the font.

Let’s break down the main types:

Desktop License → This allows you to install the font on your computer and use it in programs like Illustrator, Photoshop, or Canva. You can use it to design a logo, PDFs, business cards, or social media graphics—anything static.

Webfont License → This one’s for websites. If the font is being used in live text (meaning someone can highlight or copy it), you need a webfont license. These are often priced by monthly traffic, so more page views = higher cost.

App License → If you’re using a font in an app or software product, you’ll need a specific app license. This covers things like meditation apps, wellness journals, or other digital tools with embedded fonts.

ePub License → This applies to fonts used in ebooks, online guides, or any downloadable content where the font is embedded into the file.

If you’re not sure if your case falls under Desktop or ePub ask yourself this:

Is the file designed to adjust the text or layout automatically depending on the screen or device? If so, that’s likely an ePub use. If the file is just for reading or printing, and the layout stays exactly the same for everyone, you’re probably fine with a desktop license.

Canva fonts and the big myth

This is the part that catches almost everyone off guard: just because a font is available inside Canva doesn’t mean you can use it anywhere you want.

Here’s how Canva’s font licensing works:

• You can use Canva’s fonts inside designs you create within Canva.
• You’re not allowed to use those fonts anywhere else, like on your website or in design files you create outside of Canva.
• Even if you’re paying for Canva Pro, the fonts are licensed for use within their platform – not for general download or embedding.

So, let’s say you created a logo in Canva with a font you love. If you now want to use that same font on your website or upload it into another design program… technically, you can’t. Unless you go find that font outside of Canva and purchase the proper license.

And just to be clear – this isn’t a dig at Canva. It’s a great tool, especially for DIY designs. But they don’t exactly put this info front and center, and a lot of people (understandably!) assume they’re covered just because they’re using a paid plan.

If you find a font in Canva that really works for you, do a quick search to see if it’s available from a licensed source like MyFonts, Fontspring, or Creative Market – or even better, from the original foundry or creator. That way, you can make sure you’re covered wherever and however you want to use it – and avoid having to change fonts down the road.

Risks of using unlicensed fonts

So what actually happens if you’re using a font outside the terms of its license?

Here’s the short version: it’s not worth the risk.

Potential consequences include:

• Takedown notices → You may get an email asking you to remove the font from your website, branding, or content.
• Fines → Some foundries do pursue license violations legally, especially if the font is used commercially.
• Design disruption → You might be forced to change the font everywhere – on your website, in your PDFs, in your email templates, etc.
• Collaborator liability → If you send files with unlicensed fonts to designers or printers, they could also get pulled into the issue.
• Trust gaps → Fonts may seem like a small detail, but when your design choices feel “off” or inconsistent across platforms, it subtly impacts how professional and reliable your brand feels.

Even beyond the legal concerns, unlicensed fonts often create complications. You can’t scale your brand cleanly if you’re constantly running into font limitations or having to backtrack.

How to know what license you need

If you’re still unsure about which license is right for your project, here are some quick questions to guide you:

• Is the font being used on a website? You’ll likely need a webfont license.
• Will it appear in something people download? A desktop license is usually fine, unless the font stays embedded as editable text, then consider an ePub license.
• Is it part of an app or software? You’ll need an app license.
• Did you get it from Canva? → Only safe to use inside Canva-created materials, not externally.

Still unsure? Most font marketplaces (like MyFonts or Creative Market) have license comparison charts. And if you’re working with a designer, don’t hesitate to ask what license to purchase and whether it covers your intended use.

How to read a font license (without losing your mind)

Font licenses can feel like reading legal disclaimers written by robots, but once you know what to look for, they’re not so bad.

Here’s how to skim a font license without getting overwhelmed:

Key things to look for:

• Permitted uses → Does it mention websites? Apps? PDFs? Video content? Look for the specific ways you’re allowed to use the font.
• Limitations→ Are there pageview caps, user limits, or restrictions on embedding?
• Number of users/devices → Some licenses are single-user only. If you’re sharing files with a team, make sure that’s allowed.
• Modifications → Some licenses allow font modifications (like adjusting spacing or style), others don’t.
• Distribution rights → Can you send it to a collaborator or embed it in a client file?

If something’s confusing or not clearly answered, don’t stress. Many font marketplaces have support chat or FAQ sections. And font creators are usually happy to clarify, especially if you’re trying to license their work properly.

P.S. If the license isn’t visible or easy to find when you’re downloading a font, that’s a red flag. Always make sure you can see and understand what you’re agreeing to.

Where to buy legitimate font licenses

There are a lot of shady font download sites out there. You know the ones with the “free” downloads that are pirated, misrepresented, or not actually free at all… 😒

Just stick to reputable sources that clearly explain what you’re buying.

Google Fonts → 100% free and safe for commercial use. Great for websites and consistent branding.

Adobe Fonts → Included with most Adobe Creative Cloud plans. Usage is covered while you’re a paying subscriber.

Creative Market → Independent creators selling fonts, often with easy-to-read license options.

MyFonts → Massive collection of professional fonts with clear licensing tiers.

Fontspring → Easy to understand, no complicated license tiers, and no surprise restrictions.

The designer or foundry directly – Many font creators sell from their own websites. This is often the most transparent and supportive route. I love Jen Wagner Co. and Blanc Saváge – both have beautiful typefaces that make any design look instantly elevated! (Plus, get 15% off with the code VERVEANDCOLOR.)

Before you download or buy:

• Double-check that the license matches how you plan to use it.
• Save the license and receipt somewhere safe. You might need it later if someone asks where the font came from.

Should you just hire a designer?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re definitely not alone. Fonts, licenses, usage rules… it’s a lot to sort through, especially when you just want to get your work out into the world.

Here’s when hiring a designer (like me!) might make sense:

• You’re building or refreshing your brand and want your fonts to be consistent everywhere.
• You’re not sure what license you have – or if you even have one.
• You’re switching platforms or tools and need to bring your fonts with you.
• You want to be sure you’re not unknowingly using something you’ll have to redo later.

A good designer will make sure your fonts are licensed properly, work well on the platforms you’re using, and align with the purpose and feeling you’re going for. They’ll also help you choose fonts that are readable and accessible, and that support the experience you want people to have when they engage with your work.

Even if you’re still DIYing most things, having someone in your corner to double-check your font setup can save you time, money, and the stress of rebranding halfway through a launch.

And I’m always happy to help! Whether you’re mid-project or just want a second opinion, you can reach out here and I’ll help you figure out exactly what you need.

Oh and if you’re in the early stages of creating or refreshing your site, this step-by-step guide covers everything you’ll want to think through!

How fonts influence the feel of your brand

I say this all the time: fonts do more than style your words – they shape the energy of your brand.

The second someone lands on your site, opens a PDF, or reads a slide in your course, your typography is setting the tone. The shape and style of the the letters can make things feel grounded, clean, chaotic, luxurious, loud, or even confusing. That emotional reaction often happens before someone even reads a single word.

So if you’re choosing fonts based purely on aesthetics or what looks “cute,” it’s worth slowing down and thinking about the experience you’re creating.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want someone to feel when they first land on my homepage?
• Do my fonts reflect the pace, mood, or tone of my work?
• Do they support clarity, trust, and comfort – or do they distract from it?

A few real-world font strategy tips:

• If your work is centered around calm, nervous system regulation, or healing: look for fonts with soft curves and generous spacing, like Poppins, Lora, or DM Sans.
• If you’re a no-fluff educator or coach who wants to be seen as direct and confident, consider fonts that feel stable and modern, like Inter, Helvetica Neue, or Source Sans Pro.
• If you want to bring warmth and approachability into your work, pair a clean sans serif with a softer serif or hand-drawn accent. Just make sure they’re still accessible and not too decorative.
• Avoid using multiple type styles just for variety. Stick to two fonts max (one for headlines, one for body text) and use weight, size, and spacing to create hierarchy and contrast.

And remember, accessibility matters too (a lot!):

• Make sure your fonts are easy to read.
• Stick to a minimum 16px body size.
• Choose high-contrast pairings (dark text on light background).
• Avoid all caps in long phrases, they’re harder to scan.
• Test your fonts on desktop and mobile to make sure they feel clear and not cramped.

When your font choices align with how you want people to feel, it creates a kind of subconscious trust. Things just feel… right. That’s the power of good typography.

Recap: what you actually need to remember

1. Fonts are licensed (even the ones from Canva) and you need to have the correct license to use the font.
2. Always check what kind of license you need based on how the font will be used (web, print, PDF, app, etc.).
3. Using the wrong font in the wrong place can lead to legal issues and messy rebranding later.
4. Google Fonts are a safe bet for most cases.
5. If in doubt, ask – or stick with fonts that are known to be open-source and commercial-use friendly.
6. Fonts play a big role in the experience of your brand! A clean, consistent set of fonts that are used across everything – your website, PDFs, emails, and social posts – makes your brand feel more professional, easier to read, and more trustworthy.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a font I found from Pinterest?
   
   Not necessarily. Pinterest is great for inspiration, but the fonts shared there often link to sites that don’t have the proper licensing – or worse, share pirated versions. If you find a font you love on Pinterest, always track it back to the original designer or a reputable marketplace before using it.
   
   
2. Are Google Fonts really free for everything?
   
   Yes – for personal and commercial use. They’re open-source and safe for websites, print, and downloads.
   
   
3. What if a designer used a font I don’t have the license for?
   
   You’re still responsible for the license if you’re using the work. Ask the designer what was used and confirm it’s covered, or buy the license yourself.
   
   
4. Can I upload licensed fonts into Canva?
   
   Yes. If you have Canva Pro, you can upload your own licensed fonts to use in your designs. Make sure you’ve actually purchased the correct license.
   
   
5. Is it okay to use fonts from Etsy?
   
   Sometimes. Etsy is a marketplace, so it depends on the seller. Always check the included license and don’t assume all uses are covered.
   
   
6. Can I use a font that came pre-installed on my computer?
   
   Some system fonts are fine for personal use but not always cleared for commercial projects like websites, client work, or anything you sell. To be sure, just Google the font name and find the original foundry (the creator or company that released the font). Most foundries have a page that explains what’s allowed.

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Note: Some links on this page are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you). Sometimes, you’ll get a discount or special bonus for using them.