Copy of Copyright New Draft: How to Request Permission

Requesting Permission

After you have determined the copyright holder and the copyright status of a work, you may need to request permission to use the work.

In some cases, if you are able to find the appropriate contact information, you may contact the copyright holder directly.

In most cases, however, you will need to contact a licensing agency.  A list of collective licensing agencies can be found at the Copyright Advisory Office of Columbia University.

When you request permission, be prepared to:

• Identify the specific rights you would like
• Limit the rights for a set amount of time
• Request exclusive or non-exclusive rights
• Identify the geographic area where you will use the work
• Pay for the use of the copyrighted work
• Get the permission in writing

Sample Permission Letters

• Model Permission Letters (Copyright Advisory Office, Columbia University)
• Sample Permission Letters (University of California Copyright)
• Sample Written Request for Permission (Copyright Crash Course, University of Texas at Austin)

Remember:  Getting permission can take a while!  Although it doesn't always take this long, be aware that the process can take a few months.