Millions of PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch users may need to pay a £180 fee to avoid breaking UK law. The TV Licence requirement applies to anyone who watches or records live television on any channel or device, including gaming consoles.
Which Consoles Are Affected?
Sony's PlayStation and Microsoft's Xbox offer access to BBC iPlayer, Netflix and Disney+. The Nintendo Switch has limited streaming apps but does have YouTube. TV Licensing guidance states a licence is not needed for user-generated content or clips on YouTube, but is required for live television broadcasts or live-streamed TV programmes.
How Much Does a TV Licence Cost?
A standard UK TV Licence costs £180 per year. Payment options include monthly instalments from £15 a month, or quarterly payments from £46.25 with a small £1.25 charge added. A monthly Direct Debit starts at £30 for the first six months, then around £15 per month thereafter.
Discounted Licences
Discounted rates are available in certain circumstances. People aged 74 and over who receive Pension Credit can get a free licence. Care home or sheltered accommodation residents pay £7.50 per month. Those watching only on a black-and-white TV pay £60.95 per year. Blind or severely sight impaired individuals pay £90 per year. Students do not get a permanent discount but can apply for a refund for unused months at the end of the academic year.
Penalties for Non-Payment
Watching live TV or BBC iPlayer without a licence can lead to prosecution and a maximum court fine of up to £1,000, or up to £2,000 in Guernsey. The average fine is usually around £200. Court costs and victim surcharges are typically added. If a court-ordered fine is willfully unpaid, a custodial sentence may be imposed as a last resort.
