If you watch or record live TV on any channel - either through your TV or through a website - then you need a TV licence.

This applies whether you receive Freesat, Freeview or a pay-TV service in your home, whether you rent or own your accommodation, and whether or not you watch BBC channels.

Since 2016, changes in the law have meant that you need to TV Licence to watch or download on-demand or catch-up programmes on BBC iPlayer.

You don’t need to buy a TV licence if you only use your TV to watch DVDs, Blu-rays or videos, or you purely use non-BBC catch-up and on-demand services, such as All 4, ITV Hub or Netflix, to watch non-live content.

If you’re sure that you don’t need a TV licence, make sure you inform TV Licensing via the online declaration form or call 0300 790 6071.

Browse hundreds of expertly-tested televisions across all types, brands and price ranges in our TV reviews

Do you need a TV license?

Yes

You watch TV at the time it's broadcast through Freeview, Freesat or a pay-TV service. This includes all channels not just the BBC's.

You need a license regardless of whether you rent or own your home.

You use BBC iPlayer on any device, including smartphones, laptops and tablets.

No