Anyone in the UK who watches live TV on any channel or streaming service, or uses BBC iPlayer on any device, must have a TV Licence. This includes watching on a TV, computer, tablet, phone, or games console. A single household TV Licence covers all devices used in that home.
You need a license if you own a TV capable of viewing BBC content. Claiming you don't watch it while still owning said TV is not enough!
Yes. A valid TV Licence is required to watch or download any programmes on BBC iPlayer*, on a TV or any device including a phone, tablet or computer.
iPlayer
BBC iPlayer is funded by the UK TV licence and its use is restricted to UK residents only. Theretically you can't the BBC unless you use a VPN - but I don't think the BBC wll chase you round the world
Yes, the BBC can tell if you watch BBC iPlayer, primarily by linking your iPlayer usage to a TV Licence. They use data collected through your BBC account, which includes your IP address and viewing history, and can cross-reference this information with their records to determine if a license is required for your household. Although I don't know as I have always had a licence.
You can get a free TV licence if you are 75 or over and receive Pension Credit. A 50% discount is available for those who are registered blind or severely sight impaired. Additionally, you may be eligible if you live in qualifying residential care.
Over 75's
A 75+
75+ PLUS
https://www.gov.uk/free-discount-tv-licence
(The easiest link is above )
How to apply
You can apply for a free licence online.
You can also apply by phone.
TV Licensing
Telephone: 0300 790 6071
Minicom: 0300 709 6050
Find out about call charges
In the UK, you can get a free TV licence if you meet either of the following criteria:
Aged 75 or over and receive Pension Credit: The licence holder must be aged 75 or older, and they, or their partner living at the same address, must be receiving Pension Credit. This free licence covers everyone living at that address.
A resident in an eligible care home or sheltered accommodation may be covered by an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) TV Licence, which means they do not have to pay.
Other Concessions
While not free, other conditions may qualify you for a discount:
Registered blind (severely sight impaired): You are eligible for a 50% discount on your TV licence. The licence must be in the blind person's name, and it also covers anyone else living in the household.
Living in an eligible residential care home or sheltered housing: If you are retired and over 60, or disabled, you may be eligible for a reduced-fee ARC TV Licence, which currently costs £7.50.
Important Notes
No other benefits qualify you for a free licence. Only Pension Credit for those aged 75 and over makes you eligible for a free licence.
You must apply for the free or discounted licence; it is not automatic. You can apply when you are 74 if you already receive Pension Credit to ensure a smooth transition when you turn 75.
If you don't watch or record live TV on any channel or service, and you don't use BBC iPlayer, you may not need a TV licence at all.
For more information, you can contact TV Licensing directly or check the official GOV.UK and TV Licensing websites.
7 sites
Get a free or discounted TV licence - GOV.UK
Get a free or discounted TV licence. If you're 75 or over and you get Pension Credit, you can get a free TV licence. If you're blind.
Check if you can get a free TV Licence - TV Licensing ™
You can apply for a free TV Licence if: You, as the licence holder, are 75 years or older. AND. you, or your partner living at...
Who Needs A TV LICENCE
Who needs a TV Licence
Anyone who watches or records live TV: This applies to all live channels on any TV service (like Sky, Freeview, or Virgin Media) or live TV on streaming services (like YouTube, ITVX, or Amazon Prime Video).
Anyone who uses BBC iPlayer: This includes watching any BBC iPlayer content, even if it's on-demand.
Anyone using any device: The requirement applies to any device capable of receiving a TV service, including TVs, computers, laptops, phones, and tablets.
Businesses: Hotels, residential care homes, and other establishments with accommodation must have a TV Licence for each unit of accommodation.
Who does not need a TV Licence
People who only watch non-live, on-demand content (except BBC iPlayer): You do not need a TV Licence if you only use streaming services to watch non-live content and do not use BBC iPlayer.
People who only listen to radio: You do not need a TV Licence if you only use a device to listen to digital radio, including BBC Sounds.
