Can I use NVIDIAs TensorRT commercially? What is its license and any limitations?

Verdict: You can use NVIDIA's TensorRT commercially; it’s backed by a robust Apache 2.0 license. But tread carefully with TensorRT LLM; its license claims are hazy.

1. NVIDIA TensorRT

• License: Apache 2.0
• Stars: 13,125
• Push: Last updated just 11 days ago.
• Maintenance: ✅ Actively maintained
• Open Issues: 614
• Description: High-performance SDK for deep learning inference on NVIDIA GPUs. This repository includes open-source components, plugins, and sample applications.
• Link: NVIDIA TensorRT
• Commercial Use: Fully supported by the Apache 2.0 license, which allows modification and distribution, including commercial applications.

2. NVIDIA TensorRT-LLM

• License: NOASSERTION
• Stars: 14,051
• Push: Last updated on July 6, 2026 (just today).
• Maintenance: ✅ Actively maintained
• Open Issues: 1,463
• Description: A Python API for defining Large Language Models, optimized for NVIDIA hardware, but lacks a clear license.
• Link: NVIDIA TensorRT-LLM
• Commercial Use: Lack of clear licensing (NOASSERTION) poses a significant risk for usage, especially in commercial settings.

Conclusion

NVIDIA's TensorRT is an open and commercial-friendly ride under the Apache 2.0 license. TensorRT-LLM, while enticing with its modern capabilities, is riddled with license uncertainty. Use TensorRT if you want a safe, documented route; avoid TensorRT-LLM for production unless clarity emerges about its licensing.