A TV Licence is not included in monthly food and accommodation charges when you are living in Ministry of Defence accommodation, whether on or off a base.
You need to be covered by a TV Licence if you:
- watch or record programmes as they're being shown on TV, on any channel
- watch or stream programmes live on an online TV service (such as ITV Hub, All 4, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Sky Go, etc.)
- download or watch any BBC programmes on iPlayer.
This applies even if you don't own a TV and are using your mobile, tablet, computer or any other device.
Below you can find all you need to know to make sure you're aware of when you need a licence.
How much is a TV Licence?
A TV Licence costs £157.50 and can be paid in whole, or spread the cost with a range of Direct Debit options. More information about ways to pay for your TV Licence can be found at TVLicensing.co.uk/armedforces.
What if I am deployed overseas?
If you're being deployed or posted overseas, you can cancel your licence and apply for a refund if you have one month or more left before it expires.
What if I am changing address in the UK?
If you are changing address in the UK, you need to update your licence details to ensure you remain covered by it.
I share a room on a base with others. Do we all need a licence?
No. If you're on a base you need one TV Licence per room.
Does my home TV Licence cover me in single living accommodation?
It is possible you may be covered by your home licence, however most Armed Forces personnel are not. You will only be covered by your home TV Licence:
- If you watch BBC programmes on iPlayer which you've previously downloaded at home.
- If you only ever use a device at the base that is not plugged into the mains and which is powered solely by its own internal batteries.
What will happen if I don't have a TV Licence when I should?
Having a TV Licence is the law and if you don't have one you risk prosecution, a fine of up to £1,000, plus any legal costs and/or compensation that may apply.
You can find out more at www.TVLicensing.co.uk/armedforces (www) or Defence Instruction Notice 2020DIN01-045.