TikTok offers two main categories of sounds on the platform: commercial sounds and non-commercial sounds. Knowing how to use non-commercial sounds correctly is important, especially for creators who are not promoting a business or running ads. This guide explains what non-commercial sounds are, who can use them, and how to apply them to your videos step by step.
What Are Non-Commercial Sounds on TikTok?
Non-commercial sounds are audio clips and music tracks that can only be used for personal, entertainment, or non-promotional content. These sounds are typically licensed for general user-generated content but not for advertising or business purposes.
They are commonly used by:
- Personal creators
- Entertainment accounts
- Lifestyle and storytelling pages
- Casual content creators
If a video promotes a product, brand, or service, TikTok may restrict its reach or mute the audio if a non-commercial sound was used incorrectly.
Difference Between Commercial and Non-Commercial Sounds
Non-commercial sounds:
- Available to personal accounts
- Meant for fun, storytelling, or casual content
- Cannot be used in ads or promotions
Commercial sounds:
- Approved for business and branded content
- Found in TikTok’s Commercial Music Library
- Safe for ads and monetized posts
Understanding this difference helps you avoid content takedowns or audio removal.
Who Can Use Non-Commercial Sounds?
You can use non-commercial sounds if:
- Your account is set as a personal account
- Your video does not promote a business, product, or service
- The content is for entertainment, information, or personal sharing
If your account is a business account, TikTok restricts access to most non-commercial music.
How to Check Your TikTok Account Type
- Open the TikTok app
- Go to Profile
- Tap the three-line menu
- Select Settings and privacy
- Tap Account
- Check whether your account is Personal or Business
Only personal accounts can fully access non-commercial sounds.
How to Use Non-Commercial Sounds on TikTok (Step by Step)
Step 1: Open TikTok and Start a New Video
Tap the plus (+) icon at the bottom of the screen.
Step 2: Tap “Add Sound”
At the top of the recording screen, tap Add sound.
Step 3: Browse the Sound Library
Browse trending sounds, playlists, or use the search bar. Most trending songs are non-commercial sounds.
Step 4: Select the Sound
Tap the sound you want and confirm. If TikTok allows it, it will attach to your video.
Step 5: Record or Upload Your Video
Record a new video or upload one from your gallery.
Step 6: Post Without Promotional Text
Make sure your caption, hashtags, and content do not promote a product or service.
How to Tell If a Sound Is Non-Commercial
A sound is likely non-commercial if:
- It is trending in general TikTok posts
- It is unavailable when using a Business account
- TikTok displays a restriction notice when used for ads
If TikTok removes or mutes audio after posting, the sound was likely non-commercial.
How to Switch to a Personal Account to Use Non-Commercial Sounds
If you are on a Business account:
- Go to Settings and privacy
- Tap Account
- Select Switch to Personal Account
- Confirm the change
Once switched, you’ll have full access to non-commercial music.
Using Non-Commercial Sounds Safely
To avoid issues:
- Do not include product links
- Avoid brand promotions
- Avoid phrases like “buy now” or “order here”
- Do not tag business websites
Even indirect promotion can cause TikTok to mute the audio.
What Happens If You Use Non-Commercial Sounds Incorrectly?
TikTok may:
- Mute the audio
- Reduce video reach
- Remove the video
- Restrict account features
Repeated misuse may affect your account standing.
Can You Use Non-Commercial Sounds in Sponsored Posts?
No. Sponsored content, ads, or brand collaborations must use commercial-safe sounds from TikTok’s Commercial Music Library.
Best Content Types for Non-Commercial Sounds
Non-commercial sounds work best for:
- Storytelling videos
- Comedy skits
- Reactions and duets
- Educational content
- Personal vlogs
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