The TV Licence fee increased to £174.50 in April 2025, marking the second rise since 2021. This annual charge applies to households or businesses that watch live TV broadcasts or use BBC iPlayer. However, many people wonder whether a TV Licence is necessary if they only watch DVDs or use their TV exclusively for gaming.
According to the official TV Licensing website, you do not need a TV Licence if your TV usage is limited to gaming or watching DVDs, provided you never watch live TV channels on any service, stream live TV, or access BBC iPlayer. This distinction helps clarify the eligibility rules and avoids unnecessary charges.
The recent 2.9% fee increase, announced two years ago, aligns with annual CPI inflation. Alongside the £174.50 fee for standard colour licences, black-and-white licences remain available at £58.50 per year. This inflation-linked increase will continue until 2027, with another planned £5.50 rise in April 2026, bringing the fee to £180.
READ MORE: First Impressions of Bath’s New M&S Café: Breakfast Highlights and Savings
READ MORE: Minehead Seafront Arcade Expansion Approved Again After Council Error
TV Licensing warns that illegal use—such as watching, recording, or downloading programmes without a licence—can result in prosecution, carrying penalties up to £1,000 plus legal costs and compensation.
Certain groups are eligible for reduced or free TV Licences. Notably, individuals claiming Pension Credit may qualify for a free TV Licence if they are over 75 or live with a partner who receives the benefit. Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit aimed at those above State Pension age with limited income, raising weekly income thresholds to £227.10 for singles and £346.60 for couples.
Those receiving Pension Credit can apply for a free licence at age 74 but must keep paying until the end of the month before turning 75. After this point, they are covered by the free licence protection.
The annual TV Licence covers watching, recording, and downloading programmes on any device where live TV or BBC iPlayer is accessed. Understanding these rules can help viewers avoid unnecessary fees and ensure compliance with legal requirements.