If you own a TV or watch live TV on any device, the UK government expects you to have a TV licence. It’s a simple tax that funds the BBC. The fee is the same across the country and is due every 12 months.
Right now the licence costs £159 per year for a colour TV and £53.50 for a black‑and‑white set. The price can change each April, so it’s worth checking the official website before you renew.
Anyone who watches or records live TV – whether it’s on a television, computer, tablet or phone – must have a licence. This includes watching live streams on BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4 or any other channel that shows programmes as they go on air.
It doesn’t matter if you only watch a few minutes a day; the rule applies as long as the broadcast is live. If you only watch on‑demand content that’s not live, you don’t need a licence.
There are a few groups that are exempt or get a discount. People over 75 with pension credit get a free licence. Households with a severely disabled person can apply for a 50 % discount. Some charities, schools and hospitals also qualify for free licences.
You can pay the fee in one lump sum or spread it over 12 monthly instalments. The monthly option often costs a few pounds more in total, but it makes budgeting easier. Payments can be made online, by phone, or at a Post Office.
If you think you might qualify for a discount, set up an account on the TV licence website and fill out the exemption form. It usually takes a few weeks for the decision, so start early.
Missing a payment can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, so keep the due date on your calendar. The licence authority sends a reminder before the renewal date, but it’s still a good idea to set your own reminder.
Many people ask whether they need a licence for a portable DVD player or a gaming console that can receive TV signals. The answer is yes – if the device can receive live TV, it counts as a TV set in the eyes of the law.
In short, the TV licence fee is a straightforward cost for anyone who watches live TV. Knowing the current price, checking if you qualify for any discounts, and setting up automatic payments can keep the process painless.
Got more questions? The official TV licence help centre has a quick FAQ that covers everything from moving homes to cancelling your licence. A few minutes there can save you a lot of hassle later.
The TV licence fee in the UK will rise to £174.50 in April 2025 as part of an inflation-linked increase, aiming to secure BBC funding until 2027. The move stirs debates over affordability, value, and the future of the fee, with new payment plans and funding for S4C also announced.
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