Apply for a TV broadcast licence
A DTPS is a service providing television programmes – generally, a DTPS consists of “normal” television channels (consisting of moving pictures), including their interactive enhancements. A DTAS is a service which usually consists of self-standing text or data services, including teletext services and EPGs.
DTPS/DTAS guidance notes for licence applicants (PDF, 333.8 KB)
DTPS/DTAS application form (ODT, 93.9 KB)
DTPS Standard Form Licence (PDF, 440.5 KB)
A TLCS is a television service broadcast from a satellite, distributed using an electronic communications network (including services broadcast over the internet), or a service made available by a radio multiplex.
TLCS guidance notes for licence applicants (PDF, 300.0 KB)
On 19 November 2014 Ofcom published a statement setting out our decision to make spectrum in the 700 MHz band available for mobile data use. This is part of the spectrum band currently used to broadcast digital television, including local TV.
To enable the change of use, we will need to re-plan the frequencies used by digital television. Until this exercise is complete, the future coverage of local services cannot be accurately predicted with confidence.
Our invitations to apply for local television licences have always included information on coverage, to help applicants make their business plans. These business plans are an important element of our consideration of applications, following the statutory criteria for licence awards.
Once Ofcom has sufficient clarity over spectrum availability we will consider whether and when to advertise the remaining three areas that we have not yet advertised: Kidderminster, Bromsgrove and Stratford upon Avon. We have no current plans to advertise any other areas.
Information about earlier licensing rounds is available at the National Archives.
An RTSL-E is a licence which allows the broadcasting of television programmes for a particular event. Both a Broadcasting Act licence and a Wireless Telegraphy Act licence are required in order to broadcast a restricted television service.
RTSL-E Guidance Notes (PDF, 269.5 KB)
RTSL-E Application Form (RTF, 1.4 MB)
RTSL-E Wireless Telegraphy Act transmission licence (PDF, 83.2 KB)
The UK Government has made changes to the law that applies to broadcasting in and to the UK. The changes are made by the Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 and these Regulations are now in force.
The UK is no longer party to the Audiovisual Media Services Directive and there are new rules affecting jurisdiction, licensing requirements and content standards that may affect linear TV service providers and video on demand service providers, depending on where their services are provided. Please see our FAQs on linear television services and video on demand services after Brexit (PDF, 230.9 KB) for further information.