Watching the footy on your phone? You still need a TV licence

The rule covers live TV on any device and anything on BBC iPlayer. On-demand-only households may not need one.

Telly · By the Natter Daily team · 1 min read · Friday 18 September 2026

A TV licence isn't about owning a television. You need one to watch or record programmes as they go out live, on any channel and on any device, including a laptop, a tablet or your phone. You also need one to watch or download anything on BBC iPlayer, live or on demand.

When you don't need one

If you only watch on-demand services that aren't BBC iPlayer, and you never watch live TV, you don't need a licence. You can tell TV Licensing that you don't need one on its website.

Discounts

People aged 75 or over who get Pension Credit can apply for a free licence. If you're blind or severely sight impaired, you can get half off. Check the TV Licensing website for the details.

Moving or cancelling

If you move house, update your address rather than buying a new licence. If you stop needing one, you may be able to get a refund for the full months left on it.