Entertainment experts at playcasino.com (who commissioned the survey) advise that anyone who watches live TV or uses BBC iPlayer on a phone should understand one unusual clause before their next Netflix binge.
UK mobile users face £1,000 fine under BBC TV Licence clause
A little-known quirk in BBC TV Licence rules has left mobile users across UK floored – with 92 per cent surveyed not realising their mistake.
Entertainment experts at playcasino.com (who commissioned the survey) advise that anyone who watches live TV or uses BBC iPlayer on a phone should understand one unusual clause before their next Netflix binge.
They warn the difference between “legal” and “liable for a fine” can be whether your handset is plugged in. The current law states that if you watch or record live TV on any channel, service, or you use BBC iPlayer, you need a TV Licence, no matter the device.
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From 1 April 2025, a colour licence costs £174.50. However , your home licence usually covers you to watch on a battery-powered phone, tablet or laptop anywhere in the UK and Channel Islands.
But if you’re away from home and you plug that device into the mains at a different address – for example, streaming a live match at a friend’s and topping up your battery – the viewing at that address must be covered by a separate TV Licence (unless you’re in a vehicle or vessel such as a train, car or boat).
If that property doesn’t have a licence, you’re in breach. This quirk matters more as live events move online. Big platforms increasingly carry live sport and specials, meaning more people watch on mobiles in other people’s homes, holiday homes or student accommodation.
If an investigation leads to prosecution and a court finds you guilty of TV licence evasion, the maximum fine in England and Wales is up to £1,000, with possible prosecution costs and a victim surcharge on top (higher maximums apply in Guernsey).
That is an expensive mistake for something many see as a technicality. Make two quick checks before you hit play. First, are you watching or recording live TV on any channel, service, or using BBC iPlayer?
If yes, a licence is required regardless of whether you watch on a TV, phone, tablet, laptop or streaming stick. Second, where is your power coming from?
If you’re away from home and the device is on battery only, your home licence typically covers you; if you plug in at someone else’s property, that address needs its own licence.
Students should note that a parent’s home licence won’t cover live viewing in term-time accommodation when the device is plugged in; battery-only viewing is usually fine.
