You need a TV license to watch or record TV programmes, irrespective of what channel you're watching, what device you’re using (TV, computer, laptop, mobile phone or any other), and how you receive them (terrestrial, satellite, cable, via the internet or any other way). If you don’t have a license you risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

In some cases you and your flat mates will each require your own separate license for the TVs in your rooms, and in others one license may be sufficient between all your flat mates, regardless of the number of devices in the property. The tenancy agreement on your property is often a good indication of this. For example:

• You need your own separate TV license if you live in halls of residence and use a TV in your own room, or if you share a house with other students and use a TV in your room, and your room is a separately occupied place (a separate tenancy agreement would normally indicate that this is the case).
• If you have a separate tenancy agreement but a television is only being used in a communal area, then only one license is required
• If you’re sharing a house with other students and you use a TV in your own room, but the house can be treated as one place shared by all, then only one TV license is required (a joint tenancy agreement would usually be evidence that the house is a single licensable place for this purpose).

Aren’t I covered by my parents’ license?

Your parents' TV license will only cover you in your student accommodation in the following limited circumstances:

• You only use TV receiving equipment which is powered by its own internal batteries
• You haven't installed the TV receiving equipment, for example you haven't connected the TV receiving equipment to an aerial or plugged it into the mains supply
• Your permanent place of residence is your parents' house
• Your parents have a valid TV license for their house.

How will anyone know if I don’t have a TV license?

TV Licensing’s database lists addresses that don’t have a TV license, including university accommodation and enquiry officers do visit unlicensed properties.

If you use television-receiving equipment without a valid TV license, you risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000, plus court costs, and you’ll need to buy a TV license if you still need one. 

How much does a TV license cost?

A colour TV license costs £142.50. A black and white TV license costs £48.
To find out about the many ways you can pay for your TV license, including Direct Debit, visit the TV Licensing website or call 0844 800 6734.