Understanding Bible Translation Licensing

Understanding Bible Copyright

Many people are surprised to learn that most modern Bible translations are copyrighted. While churches generally have broad freedom to display scriptures during services, it's important to understand the rules.

Public Domain Translations

Some translations are in the public domain and can be used freely without any restrictions:

• KJV (King James Version) — Public domain, no restrictions
• ASV (American Standard Version, 1901) — Public domain
• WEB (World English Bible) — Public domain

WayPresenter includes KJV by default precisely because it's public domain and universally available.

Licensed Translations

Modern translations like NIV, ESV, NLT, and NASB are copyrighted. However, most include generous provisions for church use:

NIV (New International Version)

You may quote up to 500 verses without written permission, provided they don't comprise more than 25% of the total work. Church projection display is generally covered under fair use for worship.

ESV (English Standard Version)

Up to 500 verses may be quoted without permission. The ESV is particularly generous with church display permissions.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Up to 500 verses without written permission, with similar percentage limits.

NASB (New American Standard Bible)

Up to 500 verses with proper copyright attribution.

What This Means for Your Church

For typical church services, you're well within the permitted use for any major translation. WayPresenter automatically displays the appropriate copyright notice for each translation, keeping you compliant.

CCLI and Copyright

If your church has a CCLI license (primarily for music), note that CCLI does not cover Bible translation licensing — those are separate agreements. However, the generous quotation permissions from most publishers mean additional licensing isn't typically needed for church display.

Best Practices

1. Always display the translation name when showing scriptures
2. Let WayPresenter handle copyright notices automatically
3. If you're creating printed materials with extensive quotations, check the specific translation's permissions
4. When in doubt, KJV is always a safe choice — it's completely free to use

WayPresenter's Approach

WayPresenter handles licensing transparently. Each translation's copyright notice is embedded in the display template, and the translation name appears with every scripture reference. You don't need to think about it — the software handles compliance automatically.