A TV licence is required in the UK if you watch or record live TV programs on any channel or service, including terrestrial, satellite, cable, and internet streaming. Also, you need a TV licence to watch or download programmes on BBC iPlayer, whether live, catch-up, or on-demand. This applies regardless of the device used, such as a TV set, digital box, computer, laptop, tablet, or phone. However, you do not need a licence if you only watch on-demand content from services other than BBC iPlayer (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime) or only watch videos on sites like YouTube that are not live TV broadcasts.
When a TV Licence Is Needed
- Watching or recording live TV broadcasts on any device.
- Watching or downloading BBC iPlayer content.
- Using any device to watch live TV or to record programmes at the same time they are broadcast.
Exceptions and No Licence Needed Situations
- Only watching on-demand content on non-BBC services.
- Only watching videos on platforms like YouTube without watching live TV.
- No licence needed for radio listening alone.
- Some exemptions for specific circumstances like Crown immunity, foreign ships, or events with special dispensation.
Licence Costs and Details
- The annual cost (as of April 2025) is £174.50 for a colour TV licence and £58.50 for a black and white TV licence.
- One licence covers all devices in a household or business premises.
- Discounts or free licences are available for certain groups such as people 75 or older receiving Pension Credit, and for the severely sight impaired.
Summary
You need a TV licence in the UK whenever you watch or record live TV content on any device or watch BBC iPlayer content. You don't need one if you only watch on-demand shows from other providers or non-live content.
