TV Licensing
United Kingdom
Opening Hours
Getting a TV Licence
You need to be covered by a TV Licence to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel, or download or watch BBC programmes on iPlayer.
This could be on any device, including a TV, desktop computer, laptop, mobile phone, tablet, games console, digital box or DVD/VHS recorder. If you do any of the above without a valid licence, you risk prosecution and a maximum penalty of up to £1,000, plus any legal costs and/or compensation you may be ordered to pay. You will also still have to buy a TV Licence if you need one.
To find out more, go to tvlicensing.co.uk/info
How can I buy a TV Licence?
There are lots of different ways to buy a TV Licence. Whether that’s through weekly cash payments, using your nearest PayPoint outlet, spreading the cost with monthly, quarterly or yearly direct debit, credit/debit card or by post – just choose the one that suits you best.
For more information on the ways to pay, go to tvlicensing.co.uk/payinfo
Could I get a concession?
Are you, or is someone you live with:
- 75 years old or older? You are eligible to apply for a free Over 75 TV Licence. Call 0300 790 6112 with your National Insurance number to hand or visit tvlicensing.co.uk/over75info
- Blind and can provide the appropriate evidence? You are eligible to apply for a 50% blind concession on your TV Licence. If you are partially sighted (sight impaired) you are not eligible. To find out more, go to tvlicensing.co.uk/blind
What if I don’t need a licence?
If you don’t need a TV Licence, we would ask you to let TV Licensing know so that they can update their details. They won’t then send you any letters for approximately two years.
TV Licensing informs people of the need to buy a TV Licence.
TV Licensing is committed to helping everyone understand the law, regardless of their language or background. Our partnerships are vital in helping us communicate licensing requirements, concessions and the many payment methods on offer to communities across the UK.
We work with organisations offering advice or support services to the community to ensure they have the TV Licensing information they need for their clients. National organisations we are in regular contact with range from Citizens Advice and Age UK through to Mencap, RNIB, StepChange Debt Charity, Christians Against Poverty and the Money Advice Trust. We also work with regional and local organisations across the UK such as councils, housing associations and community centres. For more information about how we can work with your organisation, please get in touch with our team at campaignoffice@tvlicensing.co.uk