TV Licensing
- Visits, prosecutions and finesLink for Visits, prosecutions and fines
- / Staying correctly licensed
You need a TV Licence if:
You watch or record live TV programmes on any channel or device. This includes:
- Channels like BBC and ITV.
- Any live TV on packages you might pay for like Sky or Virgin Media.
- Live streaming the latest series, news or sport via the internet, from online services like ITVX, Sky Go, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
You download or watch any BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer.
This can be on any device. Like a TV, tablet, mobile, computer, laptop or games console.
Need this translated?
Call us on 0300 790 6044* if you want to speak to someone about this in another language.
Ways you can stay correctly licensed
If you buy a TV Licence and keep up with your payments, you may be able to avoid prosecution or fines. We’ll write to you if this is the case.
A TV Licence costs £174.50. To buy one, either:
Spread the cost.
If you’d prefer, you can pay with a monthly Direct Debit. You must keep up with your payments to remain correctly licensed. Find out more about spreading the cost.
Pay in one go.
You can pay £174.50 with a debit or credit card, yearly Direct Debit or by sending a cheque. You can also pay with cash at your nearest PayPoint store. Read more about our ways to pay.
Concessionary (discounted) licences are also available for customers who are blind, severely sight impaired, and customers aged 75 and over on Pension credit. Find out about different TV Licence types and costs.
How to catch up on missed payments
If you’ve fallen behind paying for your TV Licence, you can check what you owe by signing into your account. You can also find this information on any recent letters we’ve sent you. If you’re still not sure, please call 0300 373 5453.
If you need help with your TV Licence payments
Some customers can find it difficult paying for a TV Licence. If you’re struggling to make your payments, please call us on 0300 373 5453 and we’ll try to help.
There are many not-for-profit organisations that could help you. Their advice is free, confidential and independent.
Citizens Advice
Visit your local Citizens Advice. Or visit adviceguide.org.uk (England and Wales).
National Debtline
If you live in England and Wales, call 0808 808 4000. Or visit nationaldebtline.org for advice.
Money Helper
Call 0800 138 7777. Or visit moneyhelper.org.uk
Here are some other support organisations that could help.
*Calls to our 0300 numbers cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number, whether from a mobile or landline. If you get inclusive minutes, calls to an 0300 number will be included free of charge.