What happens if you don’t pay for a TV Licence?
Watching or recording live TV — or using BBC iPlayer — without a licence is a criminal offence in the UK, with a fine of up to £1,000. Here’s who needs one.
On this page
The TV Licence catches people out because it’s about how you watch, not what. Here’s the plain-English version.
When you need a licence
You need a TV Licence to:
- Watch or record live TV as it’s broadcast — on any channel or service (including through a games console, phone or laptop), and
- Use BBC iPlayer at all — live or on-demand.
You don’t need one only to watch on-demand services like Netflix, Disney+ or ITVX catch-up (as long as you never watch live and never use iPlayer).
If you don’t need one
If you genuinely only use non-iPlayer on-demand services, you can tell TV Licensing you don’t need a licence. Be honest and accurate — the rules cover all live TV, not only the BBC.
In short
You need a TV Licence to watch or record any live TV or to use BBC iPlayer; you don’t for other on-demand services. Going without when you need one is a criminal offence carrying a fine of up to £1,000 — so either hold a valid licence or formally declare you don’t need one.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to watch Netflix or catch-up?
You don’t need one to watch on-demand services like Netflix, Disney+ or ITVX catch-up. You DO need one to watch or record any live TV as it’s broadcast (on any service) and to use BBC iPlayer at all.
What’s the penalty for watching without one?
It’s a criminal offence. You can be prosecuted and fined up to £1,000, plus any legal costs and compensation. The exact fine is set by the court.
Can I cancel if I don’t watch live TV or iPlayer?
Yes. If you genuinely don’t need a licence, you can declare ‘no licence needed’ to TV Licensing. Be accurate — the rules cover all live TV, not just the BBC.
Sources & last checked
- TV Licence: when you need one — GOV.UK
- Do I need a TV Licence? — TV Licensing
Last checked against official sources: 9 July 2026.