Typeface protection is a subcategory of design protection and is therefore an unexamined IP right with a maximum term of 25 years. According to the German Design Act, graphic symbols and typographic characters are also eligible for design protection if they are new and have individual appearance. However, these requirements for protection are only examined in the event of a dispute. Typical users of typeface protection are graphic design companies.

Until 31 May 2004, protection of typographic fonts in Germany was governed by the Typeface Protection Act, with a maximum term of protection of 25 years. This protection is now governed by the German Design Act. In the EU, a Community design (EU design) can also be obtained for typefaces.

Internationally, protection of typefaces can be obtained under the Vienna Agreement on the Protection of Typographic Typefaces and their International Deposit.