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Do I need a TV Licence?

You need a TV Licence if you watch or record live TV on any channel, or use BBC iPlayer. You don’t need one if you only watch on-demand services like Netflix or Disney+.

In the UK, a TV Licence is required if you:

  • Watch or record live TV on any channel (including Freeview, Sky, Virgin, or streaming services).

  • Watch or download BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer, on any device.

This applies whether you’re using a TV, laptop, tablet, phone, or games console. The licence covers your household, not individual devices, so everyone living at the same address is covered by one TV Licence.

You don’t need a TV Licence if you only use services such as:

  • Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, or Now TV (for on-demand content only).

  • YouTube, unless you’re watching live channels or streams.

Tip: If you’re unsure, ask yourself: Am I watching TV as it’s being broadcast, or on BBC iPlayer? If the answer is yes, you need a licence.

You can set up, manage, or check if you need one at:
👉 https://www.tvlicensing.co.uk