Do i need a tv license if im just taking a tv to use a game console? (UK)?

Question

For example, i have a mini portable tv with no aerial. I also have an xbox. Can i use the xbox ok without needing the license.

Answer 1

Yes, you can use it without a license.

The TV licensing people say this:

'If you use a digital box with a hi-fi system or another device that can only be used to produce sounds and can't display TV programmes, and you don't install or use any other TV receiving equipment, you don't need a TV Licence.'

Answer 2

You wont need to buy a tv licence IF:

The tv is not connected to a source of broadcast programming (This could be a set-top box, free box, analogue aerial or Sky dish)

The tv has been detuned on every channel (that is, every channel is set to a non-used frequency)

You only use the tv set for watching things like pre-recorded DVDs, VHS, or playing with a games console which has no method of displaying broadcast programmes.

You'll be fine as long as you don't have the aerial connected, don't have any channels tuned to any programmes being broadcast, don't have any of the available receiving equipment such as Virgin/Sky/Freeview in the house, and don't have a tv card or similar on a pc or console connected to the tv.  

Since it's a portable, I would advise you to remove the aerial from it to ensure you couldn't be accused of being able to watch broadcast programmes.

The tv licence people sometimes like to claim as long as the tv is ABLE to display broadcast programmes, you should by a licence, but this is kidology on their part, if you follow the guidelines I've laid out, and ensure that the ONLY things it can do are watch pre-recorded media such as DVDs/VHS, or play a non-tv-enabled console, you'll be fine.

Answer 3

You only need a licence if you use the TV to receive broadcast TV programmes (terrestrial, cable, or satellite). Using it with a games console (or DVD player, or whatever) does not require a licence.