How to Register with MCPS
By Written by Peter McVeigh
Understand what MCPS does, how it relates to PRS for Music, and what you need to do to collect mechanical royalties from physical and digital releases.
What is MCPS?
The Mechanical Copyright Protection Society (MCPS) is the UK organisation responsible for collecting and distributing mechanical royalties.
Mechanical royalties are generated when music is reproduced, i.e. copied or manufactured in some form. This includes: CD and vinyl manufacturing Downloads (e.g. iTunes sales) Interactive streaming (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, etc.) Ringtones Video games and apps that include music
The name "mechanical" comes from the early days of recorded music when player pianos would mechanically reproduce songs, and royalties were owed to the songwriter for that reproduction.
How Does MCPS Relate to PRS?
MCPS is operated as part of PRS for Music, so when you join PRS as a writer or publisher, you're automatically affiliated with MCPS.
However, the two organisations collect different types of royalties: PRS = performance royalties (music being played/broadcast) MCPS = mechanical royalties (music being reproduced/copied)
When you stream a song on Spotify, for example, both a PRS licence fee and an MCPS licence fee apply. Spotify pays both, and they're distributed through PRS for Music.
You don't need to register separately for MCPS if you're already a PRS member. Your works registered on the PRS portal will also be covered for MCPS purposes.
How to Ensure Your Mechanical Royalties Are Collected
Step 1: Join PRS for Music This is the most important step. PRS for Music administers MCPS rights. See the PRS guide for full registration steps.
Step 2: Register all your works on the PRS portal Every song you write must be registered as a "work" on the PRS member portal. This covers both performance (PRS) and mechanical (MCPS) royalties.
Step 3: Ensure your recordings have ISRC codes When you release through a digital distributor (CD Baby, Tunecore, etc.), they'll assign ISRC codes. These link the recording to your registered work.
Step 4: Register releases with your distributor When releasing an album or EP on a physical format (CD/vinyl), the manufacturer or distributor must obtain an MCPS licence. Most reputable manufacturers in the UK will handle this, but it's worth confirming.
Step 5: Register any sync licences manually If your music is being used in a film, TV show, advert, or video game, ensure that a sync licence is in place and that the production company hasn'tified PRS/MCPS. For self-negotiated sync deals, contact PRS for Music directly.
What Are Blanket Licences?
PRS for Music (including MCPS) issues blanket licences to streaming platforms, broadcasters, and other music users. This means:
Spotify, Apple Music, and similar platforms hold licences with PRS/MCPS These licences cover ALL works registered by PRS/MCPS members Royalties are calculated based on play counts and distributed quarterly
Why this matters for you: Once your songs are registered on the PRS portal and your recordings are released digitally, the system automatically tracks plays and calculates what you're owed. You don't need to manually notify PRS every time your song is streamed, but you DO need to make sure your works are properly registered before they're released.