Events & Vendors

Free DJ Contract Template (PDF)

A DJ contract is the agreement between a DJ and a client for an event such as a wedding, party, or corporate event. It sets the date, venue, and performance hours, the services and equipment, the music planning process, venue requirements, the fee, retainer and overtime, and what happens if either side cancels.

When to use it

Use it for every booking, from weddings to birthdays to corporate events. A signed contract and retainer is what actually holds the date. It also settles the details that cause day-of problems, like power and space at the venue, sound limits, overtime, and a meal for a long event.

What's typically included

• DJ, client, and contract date
• Event type, date, venue, and performance hours
• Setup time and venue contact
• Music and MC services and equipment
• Planning form with must-play and do-not-play songs
• Total fee, non-refundable retainer, and balance due date
• Overtime rate
• Space, power, and weather protection at the venue
• Venue rules and sound limits
• Meals and breaks
• Cancellation, rescheduling, and replacement DJ
• Guest conduct, equipment damage, and insurance
• Music licensing and promotional photos
• Signature blocks for DJ and client

How to fill it in

• Confirm the venue's load-in time, end time, and sound limits before you sign, and copy them into the contract.
• Set a non-refundable retainer to hold the date, and a balance due date before the event so you're not collecting payment at the party.
• Ask the client for the planning form by a fixed date, including special dances and announcements, so nothing is a surprise on the day.
• Decide your plan if you're sick: a replacement DJ the client approves, or a full refund.

This template is a general starting point, not legal advice — customize it and have it reviewed for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

What should be in a DJ contract?

At minimum: the date, venue, and performance hours; what's included (music, MC, equipment, lighting); the fee, retainer, and when the balance is due; overtime; venue requirements; and the cancellation policy.

Is a DJ retainer refundable?

Usually not. The retainer holds the date and compensates the DJ for turning down other bookings. This template makes it non-refundable but lets the client apply it to a rescheduled date.

Who pays for music licensing at an event?

Public performance licenses for music played at a venue are usually the venue's responsibility. A DJ should play legally obtained music. For a private event like a wedding, licensing is rarely an issue.

Can a DJ contract be signed online?

Yes. Under the U.S. ESIGN Act and state UETA laws, an e-signed DJ contract is as valid as a paper one, and your client can sign on their phone right after you send the quote.