Express Licensing for Commercial Use
Express Licensing allows eligible developers to obtain commercial licenses for many copyrighted Bible translations directly through API.Bible. Commercial use includes using API.Bible, its services, or its content in a product or service that generates revenue. Projects that generate revenue or support a revenue model are considered commercial. Examples include:
- Bible apps with ads or in-app purchases
- Subscription services that include Scripture
- Publishing companies integrating Scripture into books
- Fundraising initiatives (excluding non-intrusive tithe or donation links)
In general, projects that generate revenue are considered commercial.
Pro Plan for Commercial Use
Projects intended for commercial use require a Pro Plan subscription. This plan includes all Public Domain and Creative Commons Bibles at no extra cost. Licensing fees for copyrighted Bibles are calculated during checkout based on the translations you select.
During the checkout process, select commercial use by clicking on Yes in the Digital Licensing Use card:
End Users (Monthly)
Commercial licenses include monthly licensing fees that support the continued translation, maintenance, and distribution of these Bible translations. Because licensing costs are based on your project's commercial use and estimated monthly users, it's important to provide accurate information during checkout.
In the next section titled End Users (Monthly), select the estimated number of unique monthly users who will access Scripture through your application. This number is used to determine the monthly pricing for licensing of copyrighted Bibles.
Once your subscription and licensing selections are complete, the licensed Bible translations become available through your API.Bible application. Licensing remains active as long as your subscription and applicable licensing fees are maintained
Copyrighted Bible Licensing Costs
How much does it cost for express licensing of a specific Bible for commercial use? Add a copyrighted Bible in the Additional Bibles section during checkout to view its monthly licensing cost. This cost may vary based on the prices set by the IP holder and the number of monthly users.
Some Bible translations are only available for commercial licensing up to certain monthly user thresholds. Some Bibles are not available for commercial use, including the NIV (New International Version).
List of Bibles Available for Commercial Use
For the latest availability information, see the list of Bible translations that support Express Licensing for commercial use.