How to update your TV licence when you move house
Your TV licence is linked to your address, not to you personally. When you move, you need to update it so it covers your new home. It's free and takes just a couple of minutes online.
How to update your TV licence
Log in to your account on the TV Licensing website and update your address. You can also call TV Licensing on 0300 790 6165 or write to them. Your licence transfers to your new address — you don't need to buy a new one. If someone else at your old address needs a licence, they'll need to get their own. You'll also want to compare broadband providers at your new address to make sure you have a good connection.
When to update it
Update your TV licence as soon as you move. There's no penalty for doing it on the day or shortly after, but don't leave it too long — enforcement officers visit addresses that appear unlicensed, and you could receive unnecessary warning letters at your new home.
Do you even need a TV licence?
You need a TV licence if you watch or record live TV on any channel, or use BBC iPlayer (live or on-demand). You don't need one to watch on-demand content on services like Netflix, YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video (unless it's being broadcast live). The licence costs £169.50 per year as of 2024/25. While you're updating, check our guide on updating your subscriptions and delivery addresses too.
Useful links
Common questions
- Can I transfer my TV licence to someone else at my old address?
- No. Your licence moves with you. The person staying at the old address needs to buy their own licence if they need one.
- What if I'm moving into a house share?
- If you share a house and have separate tenancy agreements, each separately tenanted room may need its own licence. If it's a joint tenancy, one licence covers the whole property.
- Can I get a refund if I no longer need a TV licence?
- Yes. If you no longer need a licence, you can apply for a refund for any full remaining quarters. Contact TV Licensing to arrange this.
Related guides
- How to compare and switch broadband when you move houseMoving house? Broadband can take 2-3 weeks to set up. Compare deals at your new address, check coverage, and avoid being without internet.
- How to update your subscription and delivery addresses when movingMoving house? Don't forget to update your delivery addresses on Amazon, subscriptions, and regular deliveries. Here's a checklist.
- How to redirect your post when you move houseSet up Royal Mail redirection when moving house. Choose 3, 6, or 12 months. Here's how it works, what it costs, and when to set it up.
Moving soon? Get your free personalised moving checklist — we'll tell you exactly what to do and when.
Get your free moving checklist