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New legislation is now place meaning viewers need a TV licence to watch or download BBC programmes on demand through iPlayer.

Rule changes came into force yesterday (Thursday) ending a loophole which previously allowed watching programmes for free after they had been broadcast without the viewer having a licence.


• What are the new restrictions on watching TV programmes on iPlayer?

As of September 1, those wishing to watch on-demand shows - including catch-up - will need to have a valid TV licence. :: How is this different from before? There was a loophole which allowed people to view previously broadcast shows on catch-up without having a licence.

• Why do people need a TV licence?


• How much is a TV licence?


• Can BBC shows be watched on other services?


• What is the cost of Netflix compared with a TV licence?

After a free monthly trial, a Netflix Premium account costs £8.99 per month. A TV licence costs £12.13 monthly if paid in instalments. :: What if you watch iPlayer on devices other than a TV? The new legislation applies to all viewers wishing to use the service, whether that’s on a TV, desktop computer, laptop, mobile phone, tablet, games console, digital box or Blu-ray/DVD/VHS recorder.

• Will students be affected?


• What is the punishment for watching iPlayer without a TV licence?


• What about other TV-on-demand services?
