In April 2025, the standard TV Licence fee rose to £174.50, reflecting a 2.9% increase in line with inflation. This annual payment is mandatory for households or businesses that watch live television broadcasts or use BBC iPlayer.
But what about people who only watch DVDs or play video games on their TV? According to the official TV Licensing website, a licence is not required in these cases—provided no live TV channels, live streaming services, or BBC iPlayer are used.
The fee increase, announced two years ago by the Secretary of State, marked only the second rise since April 2021. Alongside the colour licence priced at £174.50, a black-and-white TV Licence is available for £58.50 per year. Future fee hikes will continue to follow CPI inflation until 2027. From April 2026, the fee will increase further to £180 annually.
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It’s important to note that watching, recording, or downloading programmes without a valid TV Licence is illegal. Offenders face prosecution, with penalties of up to £1,000 plus legal costs and possible compensation.
Reduced-price or free TV Licences are available for certain groups. Individuals receiving Pension Credit and aged 75 or older—or living with a partner who claims Pension Credit—may qualify for a free licence. Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for those over State Pension age with limited income, boosting weekly earnings to £227.10 for singles or £346.60 for couples.
People eligible for a free licence through Pension Credit can apply from age 74 but must pay the fee until the end of the month prior to their 75th birthday. After that, they will be entitled to a free TV Licence.
In summary, a TV Licence is only necessary if you watch live TV broadcasts or use BBC iPlayer. DVD viewing and gaming do not require a licence. If eligible, discounts and free licences are available based on specific benefits and age criteria.