Parent information
Child Performance Licences
When a child performance licence may be required, who applies, what parents supply and why the production schedule must follow the licence conditions.
The basic rule
Check before the child performs
A child below school-leaving age may need a performance licence for paid modelling or for work in film, television, theatre and other recorded or live productions. Exemptions can apply, but the relevant local council decides whether a licence is required.
The person responsible for the production normally applies to the child's local council. GOV.UK advises allowing at least 21 days, so families should return requested documents promptly.
The process
How an application normally works
The production checks whether the engagement needs a licence and contacts the child's local council.
The parent supplies accurate information and requested documents, which may include a photograph, proof of age, school details and medical information.
The school and council consider education, safeguarding, travel and the proposed schedule.
If approved, the production, parent and chaperone follow every condition printed on the licence.
Common questions answered
Who does what, and when?
Who applies for the licence?
The production company or its authorised representative normally applies to the child’s local council. The parent does not submit the production’s application.
What must a parent provide?
Usually the parent section of the form, a copy of the child’s birth certificate, a recent passport-style photograph and school permission when absence is required. The council may request more.
How long does it take?
Allow at least 21 days. Some councils decide sooner, but timing varies and a parent should return requested documents immediately.
Who supervises the child?
A parent, teacher, home tutor or council-approved chaperone must supervise as permitted by the licence and production arrangements.
Hours and education
Follow the individual licence conditions
Permitted hours, breaks, education and performance time vary with age, the type of work and the council's decision. A copied timetable can become outdated or may not match a specific licence, so the production and chaperone should work from the approved conditions.
The rules and application process differ in Northern Ireland. Use the appropriate official guidance for the child's home nation.
Important: If a licence is required, the child should not start work until it has been granted. An agency can help with communication, but it does not replace the production's or council's responsibilities.
Official guidance
Check the current rules
Use GOV.UK to find the relevant local council and current national guidance. The council can answer questions about exemptions, documents and timing for a specific production.
Keep the documents ready
A clear photo, birth certificate copy and current school contact details help the production submit promptly. The production will give you the job-specific schedule, chaperone and council information.