A synchronisation (sync) licence gives the right to use music in timed relation to moving images. Two rights are needed: the master recording right (usually held by the record label or artist) and the publishing/composition right (usually held by the music publisher or songwriter). Both must be cleared.

• Two rights must be cleared: master recording + publishing/composition
• Micro-sync: short uses in UGC/social media (often flat fee £50–£500)
• Full sync: film, TV, advertising (negotiated rates — often thousands)
• YouTube Content ID: without a licence, claims or muting will occur
• Blanket licences: PRS/MCPS (publishing) and PPL (masters) may cover some uses

Legal reference: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 ss.16-17