How to Ask Permission to Use a Creator's Clip (Template)
Quick answer
Message the creator directly, name the exact clip, explain where and how long you'll use it, offer credit (and payment if relevant), and ask for a clear "yes" in writing. Keep the reply. Written permission is the simplest way to show you're allowed to use someone else's footage. This is general information, not legal advice.
Instagram, Facebook & TikTok · Only use clips you own or have permission to use.
*This is general information, not legal advice. It describes US law; copyright rules differ in other countries, so check your local law or ask a lawyer about your situation.*
On this page
Key takeaways
- Be specific: which clip, where, for how long.
- Get the yes in writing and save it.
- Exclusive rights or ownership transfers need a signed written agreement under US law.
- Credit the way the creator asks.
- No reply means no permission.
On this page
Why ask in writing
Under US copyright law, transferring ownership or granting an exclusive license must be in writing and signed by the owner or their authorized agent (17 U.S.C. §204(a)). A simple non-exclusive permission can technically be given less formally, but a written message is far easier to prove if anyone asks later. Rules differ in other countries, so treat writing as the safe default everywhere.
What to include in your request
- The clip: a link to the exact post and the part you want.
- The use: where it will appear (your Reel, TikTok, a client ad) and whether it's commercial.
- The duration: one post, a campaign period or ongoing.
- Edits: whether you'll crop, trim or add captions.
- Credit: how you'll tag or name them.
- Payment: if you're offering a fee, say so.
Copy-and-paste template
Hi [Name], I love your video [link]. I'd like to use [the 4 seconds where … / the full clip] in a [Reel/TikTok/Facebook post] on my account [@handle] about [topic]. I'd [trim and crop it to vertical / add captions]. It would be [non-commercial / part of a paid campaign for …] and stay up [indefinitely / until …]. I'll credit you as [@handle] in the caption [and can offer …]. Could you reply "yes" here if that's okay? Thank you!
On this page
After they reply
- Screenshot or save the message with the date.
- Use the clip only as described.
- Credit exactly as agreed.
- If your use changes (for example, turning it into an ad), ask again.
When to use a formal agreement
For paid campaigns, exclusive use or brand work, use a signed license or contract. Brands and agencies often have their own forms.
Common mistakes
- Vague requests ("can I use your stuff?").
- Taking a "like" or emoji as permission.
- Asking after you've already posted.
- Forgetting music or people in the clip may have separate rights.
How VDOHBoost fits
Once you have permission, VDOHBoost can help you prepare the clip. The rights checkbox asks you to confirm exactly that.
In VDOHBoost the flow is Paste → Trim → Done:
- Paste a link to your own clip
- Tick the rights checkbox
- Press "Get clip" and wait for loading
- Trim the clip on the "READY TO TRIM" screen
- Choose a crop: Original, 9:16, 1:1 or 16:9
- Export, then "Download MP4"
VDOHBoost exports up to 720p.
Prepare a clip you have permission to use →
FAQ
How do I ask permission to use someone's video?
Message the creator, link the exact clip, explain where and how long you'll use it, whether it's commercial, how you'll credit them, and ask for a clear yes in writing. Save the reply and use the clip only as agreed.
Does permission have to be in writing?
Under US law, transferring ownership or granting an exclusive license must be in writing and signed by the owner or their authorized agent. A non-exclusive permission can be less formal, but written permission is much easier to prove. Rules vary by country. This isn't legal advice.
Is a DM reply enough permission?
For simple non-commercial uses, a clear written yes in a direct message is good evidence. For paid, exclusive or brand uses, a signed agreement is safer.
What if the creator doesn't reply?
Then you don't have permission. Choose another clip, license stock footage or film your own.
Do I still need to credit if I have permission?
Credit as agreed. Many creators ask for a tag; giving credit is good practice even when not required.
Summary
Ask specifically, get a clear yes in writing, save it, credit as agreed, and use a signed agreement for paid or exclusive uses.
Ready to crop your own clip?
Paste a link to an Instagram, Facebook or TikTok clip you own or have permission to use.
Paste a link to your clip