TV Licence in Britain 2026: who needs one and why it costs £180 a year

A TV Licence is a compulsory payment for most households that watch live television or use BBC iPlayer. According to TV Licensing, a colour licence costs £180 a year and a black and white one £60.50.

When is a licence required?

According to TV Licensing, you need a licence if you watch or record live TV on any channel — on a television, computer, set-top box or online service — and if you watch or download programmes on BBC iPlayer. This applies to any device, including phones and tablets.

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When is a licence not needed?

If you only watch recorded, on-demand content on streaming services (other than BBC iPlayer) and never watch live broadcasts, a licence is not technically required. But be sure: any viewing of a live broadcast, even a sports match online, brings the duty to pay back.

Are there concessions?

Yes. According to TV Licensing, people aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV Licence. This licence is arranged separately and the entitlement must be confirmed. Other concession categories exist, with conditions set out on the TV Licensing website.

How do you pay for a licence?

You can pay in one go or in instalments — monthly, quarterly or weekly through a payment scheme. Spreading the cost does not change the total but helps with budgeting. The licence is tied to an address, not a person.

What happens if you don’t pay?

Watching live TV or BBC iPlayer without a valid licence is an offence that can lead to a fine. If you have a television but do not watch live or iPlayer, it is worth formally telling TV Licensing, so you stop receiving checking letters.

The TV Licence is one of those compulsory costs that is easy to forget when moving. If you are renting or have just settled in, check whether you need a licence at your new address and arrange it in good time.