Registering with a PRO is the step that switches on your performance royalties. The process is mostly the same everywhere: pick your country's society, create an account, sign the membership agreement, and register every song you have written. Here is exactly how to do it.
Step 1: Choose the PRO in your country
You join the performing rights society where you live. In India that is IPRS; in the US, ASCAP or BMI; in the UK, PRS for Music; in France, SACEM; in Canada, SOCAN; in Australia and New Zealand, APRA AMCOS. You can only join one society for your writer's share, so this choice matters.
Step 2: Apply for membership
Most PROs let you apply online. You will usually need proof of identity, your bank and tax details for payouts, and at least one published or released song. Some societies charge a one-time joining fee; others are free. After you apply, the PRO issues you a unique global identifier called an IPI number (sometimes called a CAE number) that identifies you as a writer worldwide.
Step 3: Register as a publisher (optional but recommended)
To collect the publisher's share of your performance royalties as well as the writer's share, register a publishing entity with the same PRO, or use a publishing administrator. If you skip this, you only collect half of your performance royalties.
Step 4: Register every one of your works
This is the step people forget. Joining the PRO is not enough — you must register each song with its details: title, all songwriters, and the ownership split between them. Make sure the splits add up to 100% and match what every co-writer registers with their own society. Mismatched splits are the number one cause of stuck royalties. Keep your songwriter splits documented in writing before you register.
Step 5: Keep your catalogue updated
Register new songs as you release them, and update your details if your bank or address changes. Royalties can take a few months to flow through after a song is performed, so register early and be patient.
India specifics
To join IPRS, apply online as an author or composer (you need at least one published work). After your application is accepted, IPRS mails statutory documents for signature, then issues your membership number and IPI, and gives you the format to upload your works. IPRS can deduct up to 15% for administration. Full details are in our India publishing royalties guide.