TV Licensing, Students and the Law

When Do I Need a TV Licence?

It doesn’t matter what channel you choose - it could be terrestrial, cable or satellite. And it doesn’t matter what equipment you use - traditional TV, games console, laptop or mobile phone. You still need to be covered by a licence if you are watching programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV. If you’re found to be using TV without a licence, you may be prosecuted and fined up to £1,000.

This means that if you are watching or recording programmes via the BBC iPlayer at the same time as they are shown on TV, you need to be covered by a TV Licence. If you are only watching or downloading programmes that have already been broadcast using the iPlayer or other internet services, a licence is not required.

How will anyone know if I don’t have a TV Licence?

TV Licensing’s database lists addresses that don’t have a TV Licence, including university accommodation and enquiry officers do visit unlicensed properties.

If you use television-receiving equipment without a valid TV Licence, you risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000, plus court costs, and you will need to buy a TV Licence if you still need one. A colour licence costs £145.50.

To find out more about whether you require a licence, contact TV Licensing on 0300 790 6090 or visit the TV Licensing website.

TV Licence Refunds

Students who move back home for the summer holidays could be eligible for a refund of around £37 on the final, unused quarter of their annual TV Licence. To arrange a refund, or to find out more, simply complete the online form at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/studentinfo or call TV Licensing on 0300 790 6090.

To allow enough time at the end of the academic year to qualify for a refund (three full calendar months must be left before the licence expires), students need to ensure they buy a TV Licence by the end of September/early October.