Getting your TV license sorted when moving to or from London helps you stay legal and avoid fines of up to £1,000.
A valid TV license is required for watching or recording live television programs on any device, as well as for using BBC iPlayer services in the UK.
This quick guide covers everything you need to know about TV licensing when relocating to or from London, including costs, requirements, and how to transfer or cancel your license.
TV License Requirements in London
- Current annual TV license fee: £159 for colour TV, £53.50 for black and white
- Coverage includes all devices used for watching live TV (televisions, computers, phones, tablets)
- One license covers your entire household at a single address
- Students need separate licenses for term-time accommodation
Moving to London – TV License Setup
Visit the official TV Licensing website (www.tvlicensing.co.uk) to set up your new license.
You can transfer an existing UK TV license to your new London address free of charge.
Set up direct debit payments to spread the cost across the year.
Moving from London – Managing Your License
- Contact TV Licensing to update your address details
- Request a refund for any remaining complete quarters
- Cancel your license if moving abroad
- Keep documentation of cancellation/transfer
Payment Options
| Payment Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Direct Debit | Monthly, quarterly, or annual payments |
| Credit/Debit Card | One-off annual payment |
| TV Licensing Payment Card | Weekly or monthly payments at PayPoint locations |
Exemptions and Discounts
- Over 75s receiving Pension Credit: Free TV license
- Blind/severely sight impaired: 50% discount
- Care home residents: Reduced fee licenses available
Contact Information
TV Licensing Contact Details:
- Phone: 0300 790 6131
- Text: 07860 064 497
- Online: www.tvlicensing.co.uk/contact-us
Quick Tips for TV License Management
- Keep your license number handy when contacting TV Licensing
- Update your address details at least 14 days before moving
- Take photos of your final utility bills as proof of moving date
- Set calendar reminders for renewal dates
- Save confirmation emails and reference numbers
Next Steps for Your Move
Schedule your TV license transfer or setup at least two weeks before your moving date to ensure continuous coverage.
Keep all confirmation emails and documents in a dedicated folder for easy reference.
Set up automatic payments to avoid missed payments and potential fines.
Legal Compliance and Enforcement
- TV Licensing officers regularly check unlicensed addresses
- Detection vans can identify properties watching live TV
- First-time offenders usually receive written warnings
- Persistent offenders face prosecution and fines
Common Moving Scenarios
Temporary Accommodation
- Short-term rentals need coverage if watching live TV
- Hotels and serviced apartments typically covered by their own license
- Check with landlord/property manager about existing coverage
Shared Housing
- One license covers all residents in shared accommodation
- Separate licenses needed for self-contained units
- Students in shared housing can use parents’ license during holidays
Digital Services and Streaming
Streaming services requiring TV license:
- BBC iPlayer (both live and catch-up)
- Live TV on Amazon Prime
- Live TV on YouTube
- Live sports broadcasts online
Services not requiring TV license:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video (non-live content)
- Disney+
- YouTube (non-live content)
Stay Licensed, Stay Legal in London
Managing your TV license during a London move ensures compliance with UK law and uninterrupted access to television services. Remember to action changes early, keep documentation, and understand your specific licensing requirements based on your living situation.
For international movers, research the broadcasting regulations in your destination country, as systems vary worldwide. Always maintain records of your UK license cancellation when relocating abroad.
Visit the official TV Licensing website for the most current information and to manage your license online. Set up notifications for important dates and keep contact details updated to avoid any licensing issues during your move.
FAQs
- Do I need a TV Licence when moving to London?
Yes, you need a TV Licence if you watch or record live TV on any channel or device, or use BBC iPlayer in your London residence. - How much does a TV Licence cost in London?
A standard TV Licence costs £159.00 for colour TV and £53.50 for black and white TV (as of 2023). This is the same price throughout the UK. - Can I transfer my existing TV Licence to my new London address?
Yes, you can easily transfer your TV Licence to your new London address through the official TV Licensing website. The remaining time on your licence will transfer with you. - Do I need a separate TV Licence for my student accommodation in London?
If you’re in halls of residence, you may be covered by a communal licence. If you’re in private accommodation, you need your own licence unless covered by your parents’ licence and only using devices powered by their home’s electricity. - What happens to my TV Licence if I move away from London?
You can transfer your licence to your new UK address or cancel it if moving abroad. Refunds are available for unused complete quarters. - Do I need a TV Licence if I only watch streaming services like Netflix in London?
No, you don’t need a TV Licence for streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Disney+, unless you watch live TV through these platforms or use BBC iPlayer. - Can I pay for my London TV Licence in installments?
Yes, you can pay for your TV Licence annually, quarterly, monthly, or through a TV Licensing payment card with weekly or monthly payments. - What happens if I don’t get a TV Licence in London when I need one?
You risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000 plus legal costs if you watch or record live TV, or use BBC iPlayer without a valid licence. - Do I need a TV Licence for my business premises in London?
Yes, commercial premises in London need a TV Licence if they show live TV or BBC iPlayer to staff or customers. Hotels need a separate licence for every 15 TV sets. - Is there any discount available on TV Licences in London?
Yes, people aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit are eligible for a free TV Licence. Those who are blind or severely sight-impaired can get a 50% discount.
