How to apply for a child performance licence

To comply with UK law, you must apply for a child performance licence through the local council where the child lives if your business content features anyone under the school-leaving age. This is a legal requirement designed to protect the child’s welfare, education, and health, and failing to secure one can result in fines or even prosecution.

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Determine if you need a licence

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In the UK, a child is generally defined as being under the "school-leaving age" (the last Friday in June of the school year they turn 16). You need a licence if the child is:

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• Taking part in a "broadcast" (this includes YouTube, TikTok, or live streaming for business purposes).\n
• Performing on commercial premises.\n
• Taking part in paid modelling or paid performances.\n

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Crucially, even if you are filming your own children for your business, you still usually need a licence if the content is monetised or intended for commercial gain.

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How to apply

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2. Contact the Local Authority: You must apply to the council where the child lives, not where your business is based. Look for the "Education Welfare" or "Child Employment" department on their website.\n
3. Complete the Application: Most councils provide a downloadable "Part 1" for the applicant (you, the business owner) and a "Part 2" for the parent/guardian.\n
4. Gather Supporting Documents: You will typically need a copy of the child\'s birth certificate, two passport-sized photos, and a letter from their headteacher if the filming takes place during school hours.\n
5. Submit Early: By law, you should apply at least 21 days before the performance or filming date. While some councils are faster, leaving it late risks your production schedule.\n

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Understanding working hours and breaks

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The licence will specify exactly how long a child can be "at the place of performance." You must adhere to strict limits regarding their working hours and rest breaks. These vary by age, as shown in the table below:

\n\n\n \n \n Age of Child\n Max Time at Venue\n Max Performance Time\n Min Break Frequency\n \n \n \n \n Under 5\n 5 Hours\n 2 Hours\n Every 30 Minutes\n \n \n 5 to 9\n 7.5 Hours\n 3 Hours\n Every hour\n \n \n Over 9\n 9.5 Hours\n 3 Hours\n Every hour\n \n \n\n\n

\n Pro-Tip: Always appoint a "Chaperone." Unless the child’s parent is present at all times, you must hire a council-approved chaperone to supervise the child. This person’s sole job is to look after the child’s wellbeing while they are working with you.\n

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The "Four-Day Rule" Exception

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There is a small exception where a licence might not be needed if the child has not performed for more than four days in the previous six months and no payment is made to the child or anyone else (other than expenses). However, this rarely applies to commercial content creators because the act of monetising a channel or selling a product often counts as a "commercial performance." Always check with the council first to stay on the safe side.