If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a TV licence in UK, the answer may be more nuanced than you realize. We’ll outline the circumstances in which one is necessary and the most convenient method of acquisition.
TV licence in UK
In the UK, possessing a TV licence is obligatory for individuals who view live television broadcasts or utilize the BBC iPlayer platform. The revenue generated from these licences supports the BBC’s various services, encompassing television programming, websites, weather forecasts, radio broadcasts, podcasts, and mobile applications.
For those who watch live television or access the BBC iPlayer, holding a valid TV licence is essential. This requirement extends to UK adults who engage with at least one BBC service on a weekly basis. Failure to possess a TV licence when mandated can lead to substantial penalties, potentially amounting to £1,000 in fines along with associated legal expenses and compensation.
Do I need TV licence?
The requirement stands that regardless of whether you’re viewing live television on a TV set, computer, tablet, gaming console, smartphone, or any other electronic device, you must have a valid TV licence.
- If you are watching Live TV, you must have TV licence in UK. Live TV means – You are watching or recording TV at the time it’s broadcast. This also includes watching live television through streaming applications like ITVX, All 4, Amazon Prime Video, and Now TV also requires a TV licence.
- It’s imperative to hold a TV licence irrespective of whether you rent or own your residence.
- if you use BBC iPlayer on any gadget (smartphone, laptop, tablet etc).
What if i don’t need a tv license in UK?
You are not required to purchase a TV licence if you solely utilize other catch-up or on-demand services, or if your television is exclusively used for gaming, watching DVDs, Blu-rays, or video cassettes.
If you are certain that you do not require a TV licence, ensure to notify TV Licensing either through the online declaration form or by calling 0300 790 6096.
Do I need a TV licence to watch Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ or Apple TV+ ?
If you tune in to live television via an internet-based platform, such as live sports events on Amazon Prime Video or ITV channels via ITVX, holding a TV licence is mandatory.
According to the TV licence website, it specifies: ‘You don’t need a TV Licence if you only ever watch on-demand programmes on any TV service apart from BBC iPlayer’. Therefore, if you solely utilize these applications for on-demand content and not for live broadcasts, a TV licence is not required.
If your viewing habits are solely focused on streaming on-demand movies or TV series on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, Netflix, or YouTube (or any other online video service), you are currently exempt from needing a TV licence. The same exemption applies to other streaming services.
In a nut shell:
- On Demand content – No licence required
- Live broadcasts – licence required
UK tv license cost
The regular TV licence is priced at £159 annually. Nonetheless, you may qualify for a reduction or even obtain a TV licence free of charge.
Please note – From April 1, 2024, the government has announced that the annual fee for a standard color TV licence will increase to £169.50. This marks a £10.50 rise from the current price of £159 per year, and it’s the first increase since April 2021.
TV licence what if i don’t pay
Regardless of your stance on the TV licence, if you are caught watching or recording live television without a valid licence, you are committing a criminal offense punishable by a fine of up to £1,000 plus court expenses.
TV Licensing asserts that it employs various techniques to ascertain whether you are properly licensed, including inspections conducted by enforcement officers, the use of detection vans, and access to a national database.
If you believe you have been unfairly fined or have any grievances, you can seek resolution through the BBC. Further escalation of complaints would be forwarded to ombudsman services.
TV licence in UK – Changing Address?
When relocating, you can transfer your TV licence to your new address by completing the change of address form or contacting 0300 790 6096.
If you move in with someone who already holds a licence, you have the option to cancel your own licence and may be eligible for a partial refund.
TV licence in UK – How to get refund?
If you wish to terminate your TV licence and have paid for a full year, you may be eligible for a refund.
To qualify, you must have at least one month remaining on your licence and provide a valid reason for cancellation.
Acceptable reasons for cancellation include:
- No longer watching or recording live TV, or streaming BBC programs on iPlayer.
- Relocating to a residence already covered by a TV licence.
- Moving into a care facility.
- Relocating abroad.
- Death of the licence holder.
- Possession of two licences for the same address.
If you qualify, you can fill out a brief form on the TV Licensing website to apply for your partial refund.
FAQs
Do I need tv licence to watch youtube?
To watch a TV program live on YouTube, you must possess a TV licence. However, no licence is necessary for viewing user-generated content, clips, and videos on YouTube. This exemption extends to live-streamed content that is not part of a televised broadcast or being simultaneously broadcast through other mediums.
Is there a student discount for a TV Licence?
Unfortunately, there are no student discounts available. However, if you reside in student accommodation for less than 12 months, you can request a refund for the months during which you did not utilize your TV licence.
Who is eligible for free TV Licence in UK?
Individuals aged 75 and above who receive Pension Credit qualify for a complimentary TV Licence, funded by the BBC. However, if you are over 75 and not receiving Pension Credit, you are required to purchase a TV licence.
