⚡Quick verdict
Yes, whenever anyone at your address watches or records a programme at the moment it goes out, on whatever channel or gadget, or uses BBC iPlayer at all. How the picture arrives, by aerial, satellite or IPTV, makes no difference. Since April 2026 a colour licence has cost £180 a year.
- Live TV on any channel counts, not only BBC channels.
- On-demand only (no live, no iPlayer) does not need a licence.
- Watching without one can mean a fine of up to £1,000.
The rule in one line
You need a licence if you watch or record any programme while it is being shown on TV or streamed live, on any channel, or if you download or watch anything on BBC iPlayer.
What counts and what does not
| Activity | Licence needed? |
|---|---|
| Live channels through an IPTV app | Yes |
| Live sport on any service | Yes |
| Anything on BBC iPlayer | Yes |
| ITVX, Channel 4 or My5 catch-up only | No |
| Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video on demand only | No |
| Films from an IPTV on-demand library only | No |
Delivery does not matter here, only timing: IPTV is simply one more pipe carrying live television.
Cost and concessions
- Colour licence: £180 a year from 1 April 2026.
- Black and white: £60.50.
- Over 75 and receiving Pension Credit: free.
- Blind (severely sight impaired): half price.
If you watch without one
Doing so unlicensed is an offence that can bring a fine of up to £1,000 plus costs. TV Licensing’s enquiry officers visit unlicensed addresses. The licence and any IPTV plan are separate costs; one does not replace the other.
From £5.42 a month
Borrow a full log-in for 24 hours before paying a penny. No card, no contract, no silent renewals.