Requesting a TV licence change of address is a simple task to cross off your moving to-do list.
You can also consider whether you need your TV licence. If not, you can cancel or transfer it to another person – more on that below.
How to request a TV licence change of address:
- You can change the address on your licence up to three months before you move.
- Once it’s time, sign in to your online TV licence account using your licence number, surname and postcode
- Not sure of your TV licence number? You can find it here
- You can then request for the address on your licence to be updated
- If you’re moving in with someone who already has a licence or moving overseas you can cancel your licence, and get a refund if you paid in advance
Can I transfer my TV Licence to another person?
Yes – but only someone currently living at your address and covered by your TV licence.
You’ll need to provide written permission for the transfer by post. You can find out more details about how to do this here or by calling TV licensing on 0300 790 6085. Lines are open 8:30am – 6:30 pm, Monday – Friday.
Can you cancel a TV Licence if you move?
Yes – if you’re moving somewhere you won’t need a TV licence you can cancel your current licence.
This could be because you are moving in with someone else who already has a licence, because you’re moving overseas or because you no longer require a TV licence.
If this is the case, rather than request a TV licence change of address you can cancel your TV licence online. Any ongoing direct debit payments will stop. If you have paid for your licence in advance, you will be able to claim a refund if you don’t need your licence again before it expires, and you have at least one complete month left on it.
Do I need a TV licence?
Moving home is a perfect opportunity to check if you actually need a TV licence before you request a TV licence change of address.
You are legally required to have a TV licence if you watch broadcast TV or use BBC iPlayer.
Yes, you need a licence for:
- Watching Freeview channels such as the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 live or time-shifted
- Watching premium TV channels through Sky, Virgin Media or BT live or time-shifted
- Watching live sports on Amazon Prime
- Using BBC iPlayer
You don’t need a TV licence for:
- Watching recorded content on streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime
- Using your TV to watch DVDs or play games
- Using other TV channel catchup services like ITV player or Channel 4 online
Read more about whether you need a TV licence and how to register as exempt here.
