When do I need a TV Licence

You may hear conflicting rumours from other students about whether you need a TV Licence. But the law still applies to students. So it’s important for you to know the facts, and check if you need a licence.

When do I need a TV Licence?

You need to be covered by a TV Licence to watch or record programmes as they’re being shown on TV or live on an online TV service, or to download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch-up TV, on BBC iPlayer. This could be on any device, including a TV, desktop computer, laptop, mobile phone, tablet or games console.

You do not need a TV Licence if you only watch on-demand programmes (other than those on BBC iPlayer) on paid-for-subscription channels such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Now, Disney Plus and Sky Go (this information is last checked on 22/10)

It’s illegal for anyone in to do this without being covered by a TV Licence. If you break the law, you risk prosecution and a fine of upto £1,000* plus any legal costs and/or compensation you may be ordered to pay.

For more information, or to buy a TV Licence, please go to the TV Licensing website