An IP licence lets the IP owner (licensor) allow others (licensees) to use their intellectual property while retaining ownership. Unlike an assignment, the licensor keeps the IP. Licences can be exclusive or non-exclusive, limited by territory, field of use, or duration.

• Licence vs Assignment: licence = permission to use; assignment = transfers ownership
• Exclusive licence gives licensee sole rights — even licensor cannot use IP in that field
• Registration: exclusive copyright licences should be registered at IPO
• Quality control: trade mark licences must include quality control to protect the mark
• Sub-licensing: must be expressly permitted

Legal reference: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988; Trade Marks Act 1994; Patents Act 1977