{
  "question": "Can I use GPL code in proprietary software?",
  "slug": "can-i-use-gpl-code-in-proprietary-software",
  "url": "https://www.rightshold.com/answers/can-i-use-gpl-code-in-proprietary-software",
  "short_answer": "Modify and distribute commercially: Yes.",
  "framing": "GPL-3.0 allows commercial use, modification and distribution, on condition that distributed derivative works are licensed under the GPL with source available.",
  "checks": [
    {
      "label": "Modify and distribute commercially",
      "license": "GPL-3.0-only",
      "license_name": "GNU General Public License v3.0",
      "intended_use": {
        "commercial_use": true,
        "modification": true,
        "redistribution": true
      },
      "verdict": "permitted",
      "answer": "Yes",
      "findings": [
        "Every use you described is granted by GPL 3.0, and nothing you described is prohibited."
      ],
      "duties": [
        "attribution",
        "license_notice",
        "state_changes",
        "share_alike",
        "source_disclosure"
      ],
      "curation": "curated",
      "official_text": "https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-3.0.html"
    }
  ],
  "context": [
    "Distributing a closed-source product that includes GPL code conflicts with the GPL's source-disclosure duty. Internal use without distribution does not trigger it."
  ],
  "sources": [
    {
      "title": "GPL-3.0",
      "url": "https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-3.0.html"
    }
  ],
  "check_it_yourself": {
    "mcp": {
      "tool": "check_license",
      "arguments": {
        "license": "GPL-3.0-only",
        "intended_use": {
          "commercial_use": true,
          "modification": true,
          "redistribution": true
        }
      }
    },
    "rest": "POST https://www.rightshold.com/v1/licenses/check"
  },
  "computed_from": "Rightshold license profiles at render time; not legal advice",
  "updated": "2026-10-19"
}