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PCS (Picture Communication Symbols)
Overview
- Overview
- Licensing
- Support
PCS (Picture Communication Symbols)
For over 30 years, PCS® (Picture Communication Symbols) have empowered people to understand and structure the world around them, communicate their thoughts, self-regulate, and learn to read and write. Our regularly updated symbols reflect daily life for the millions of people with communication and learning challenges around the world who use them to succeed in school and in life. PCS are an integral part of our TD Snap and Boardmaker software, and are also available for public use via licensing.
PCS keep growing to include symbols representing a wide vocabulary, from everyday objects to complex concepts. All symbols are crafted to be simple, appealing, and understandable. They are also designed to reflect and represent the wide diversity of people using them around the world.
85,000+ symbols, 25+ languages — and growing
There are five distinct symbol libraries designed to support communication, education, and learning. The PCS libraries include PCS, PCS Country, PCS High Contrast, PCS Sign Language, and PCS InContext, each tailored to specific needs. Symbols in all libraries are expanding continuously and are available in multiple languages. All symbols are available in both black and white, except for High Contrast and InContext, which are in color only.
PCS library
The PCS main library offers three styles from which to choose: PCS, PCS Classic and PCS ThinLine. Each style is distinct yet compatible enough to be used in combination.
PCS
Clean, bright design, with minimal detail to keep images simple, expressive, and engaging.
PCS Classic
Designed with a basic color palette and thick outlines, using simple, symbolic imagery to represent basic concepts and items.
PCS ThinLine
Designed with thinner lines and muted colors, with detailed, representational illustrations of more complex concepts and topics.
PCS Country Library
Symbols specific to various countries, containing relevant representations of civic institutions, community services, foods, popular culture and more.
PCS High Contrast Library
Symbols based on a simplified PCS Classic style, using bright colors, no outlines and minimal detail to increase visibility for people with visual impairments.
PCS InContext Library
Symbols using realistic, scenic illustrations representing activities of daily life and community interactions, suitable for people with aphasia or adults who may struggle to understand symbolic representations.
PCS Sign Language Library
Symbols based on illustrations of sign language, available in ASL (American Sign Language) and CEE (Central and Eastern European) signs.
How we make our PCS inclusive
We’re constantly expanding our Picture Communication Symbols to represent the diverse needs of the community who uses them.
- 14,000+ symbols to support diversity
- more symbols representing abilities such as wheelchair users, device users and people with different conditions
- 20+ versions of every symbol representing a person to reflect age, gender, ethnicity, religion, ability, etc.
- 80+ different symbols for the word “family,” representing various types of family units
What new symbol would you like to see?
New PCS updates
As the home of PCS, Tobii Dynavox offers access to the most complete and continuously expanding Picture Communication Symbol library — used across our solutions to support a wide range of communication and learning needs. Find a selection of the newest symbols, along with a sample selection, in our regular updates.
Why PCS licensing matters
PCS® (Picture Communication Symbols) are registered trademarks of Tobii Dynavox, integrated with our TD Snap and Boardmaker software. If you plan to share, sell, or publish any materials that include PCS, whether in print, apps, videos, merch or on the web, you likely need to apply for a license.
Licensing ensures that you:
- are using PCS legally
- are approved to promote your content as an official PCS publisher
- have clarity on how PCS can be legally integrated into your work
How PCS licensing works
If you’re creating resources for personal or internal educational use, a license might not be necessary, but if you’re distributing or monetizing, a license is required. If in doubt, best to check it out by requesting a license. We will let you know if you require no license, a free license, or a paid license.
License needed
- selling PCS-based content or resources (e.g. eBooks, activity kits)
- publishing PCS symbols in an app or website for public distribution and for profit
- sharing your Boardmaker subscription across organizations
License probably not needed
- teachers using PCS in their own classroom materials
- therapists supporting patients with visuals for internal use
- nonprofits offering PCS-based guides or activities for free, internal use
License types
There are three types of licenses available — all of which require a Boardmaker subscription first:
| License type | Best for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Maker Free | Non-profits or individuals distributing free PCs materials (PDFs, visuals) for public use | Free |
| Maker Personal | Teachers or creators selling PCS-based content (e.g. on Etsy or TPT) | USD $149 (multiple currencies available) |
| Maker Business | Companies developing PCS-based software, tools, or commercial products | Custom pricing |
Steps to get a license
Follow these steps to enquire about a PCS license based on your needs.
- Get TD Snap or Boardmaker: Ensure you have an active TD Snap subscription or Boardmaker license or subscription.
- Determine the right license: Decide whether Maker Free, Personal, or Business applies to your case.
- Submit a PCS license request: Complete our Request Form below.
- Wait for review: Applications are reviewed within 10–15 business days.
Request a PCS license
Fill in the form to request a license and we will contact you with next steps:
PCS support
Welcome to the PCS support page. This is where you can manage your PCS license and make requests for new symbols.
Manage your license
If you would like to verify your license details, see a copy of your invoice, or renew your Maker Personal license, you can do so easily by logging in to our license management page.
Request a symbol
What sets PCS apart? Much of our new symbol inspiration comes from our customers, and many of our PCS additions are a result of your requests. So if you have an idea for a new symbol, be sure to let us know.