Do you need a TV Licence to stream? The rules in plain English
When streaming needs a TV Licence in the UK and when it doesn't: live TV, BBC iPlayer, Netflix, YouTube and catch-up services explained.
The TV Licence rules confuse a lot of people because they depend on what you watch, not on what device you watch it on. Here's the summary. For your own situation, use the official checker on the TV Licensing website (linked below).
You need a TV Licence to
- Watch or record programmes as they're being shown live on TV, on any channel, on any service or device. That includes live streams on ITVX, Channel 4, 5, Sky, Virgin, YouTube or any other service.
- Watch or download any BBC programme on BBC iPlayer, whether live, catch-up or on demand.
You don't need a TV Licence to
- Watch on-demand or catch-up programmes on services other than BBC iPlayer, such as ITVX or Channel 4 catch-up, as long as you never watch live TV on any channel.
- Watch films and series on subscription services such as Netflix, Prime Video or Disney+ on demand (but live events on those services count as live TV).
- Watch videos or clips online that aren't live TV broadcasts.
Common questions
Does it matter if I only use a laptop or phone?
No. The rules are the same on every device.
What about live sport on a streaming service?
If it's being shown live, it counts as live TV and needs a licence.
Where's the official answer?
The TV Licensing website has an online checker and the full rules. Rules and the licence fee can change, so check there before deciding.