Television Licensing in the United Kingdom: Rules, Costs and Enforcement 2023
Students can also watch TV on battery-operated devices like laptops and tablets using a home TV licence while away at school.
Holiday Lets & Airbnbs
If you rent out a property for short term stays, you need a licence to provide a TV in your listing. Long term tenants are responsible for their own licence.
Licensing Rules for Businesses
Businesses also need licences for any TV viewing on the premises:
- Shops, offices, warehouses – Any TV use requires a licence.
- Hotels, B&Bs – Each room with a TV must be covered or get a single licence covering up to 15 rooms.
- Pubs, bars, restaurants – Must be licensed for any TVs, including those in private business quarters.
- Hospitals, care facilities – Individual licences are needed for patient rooms with TVs. Shared lounge areas only need one.
- Vehicle/van rentals – Require a licence if hiring out vehicles with televisions installed.
Any public business with a television must pay the licence fee – no exceptions.
How Much Does a TV Licence Cost?
The cost of a standard colour TV licence for homes and businesses is £159 per year (as of August 2023).
Concession discounts are:
- Black and white TV licence – £53.50 per year
- Blind or severely sight impaired – 50% off
The licence fee increases most years in line with inflation. You pay for the full year upfront – quarterly or monthly instalments aren’t available.
While not classified as a tax, the TV licence is mandated by law like any other tax. Not paying can incur significant penalties.
How to Apply for a TV Licence
Applying for a new TV licence or renewing an existing one is straightforward:
Online
You can purchase online at tvlicensing.co.uk. It takes just 5-10 minutes to complete.
By Phone
Call 0300 790 6071 and provide your details over the phone. Have your payment card ready.
By Post
Request an application form to be sent to you, then return the completed form via post with payment.
You can pay the licence fee via debit/credit card, cheque, or at the Post Office. The licence will be posted to your address within 7-10 days.
