Performance License
LICENSE GUIDE
Who Needs a Performance License?
In the UK, children under the age of 16 require a performance license to take part in any media-related activities, whether paid or unpaid.
This includes acting, singing, dancing, modelling, or any other form of performance work. Read the Government Guide Lines
The law ensures that a child’s well-being, education, and health are protected while working in the entertainment industry.
It is important to note that a performance license must be obtained for each individual job a child takes on, and the license is generally issued by the local council.
However, parents are not permitted to apply directly for this license; the production company or their representative must handle the application process.
Who Is Responsible for Applying for the License?
The responsibility of applying for a child’s performance license lies with the production company.
As part of their legal obligation, the company must ensure that the appropriate license is obtained before the child begins work. This means the company either applies for the license themselves or designates an agent or agency to handle the application on their behalf.
At our agency, we frequently assist in this process on behalf of production companies.
We help ensure that all necessary paperwork is submitted on time and that the license is granted in compliance with the law.
Types of Work That Require a Performance License
A performance license is required for any work in which a child is involved in performance-based activities, such as:
- Television and Film Productions – including acting, extras, and voice-over work
- Modelling – for commercial photo shoots and advertisements
- Theatre Productions – whether for plays, musicals, or other live performances
- Radio and Online Performances – including podcasting or any form of online video or audio
- Commercials and Advertisements – both online and television ads
- Music Videos – where a child is involved as part of the performance
Even if the work is unpaid, a license is still required.
Hours a Child Can Work
There are strict regulations governing the number of hours a child can work, designed to protect their health, education, and welfare.
These rules vary based on the child’s age, as well as the type of performance work they are engaged in.
Below is a general breakdown of the allowed working hours for children in the UK:
Breaks and School Hours
In addition to the above working hours, there are specific guidelines around school hours.
If a child is required to work during school hours, their schooling must be properly accounted for. The child must have a suitable break for education, and the production company must arrange for their schooling to continue while they are working. This could mean private tutoring or a teacher on set to ensure the child does not miss out on their education.
For children working outside school hours, it’s equally important that they receive sufficient rest periods during their workday. The production company must ensure that the child has appropriate breaks for meals and downtime, and the child must not be overworked.
What does it involve?
The production company will fill out Part 1 of the application form. Parents will be asked to fill out Part 2 of the license application form
The completed parts of the application form are then submitted back to the council. They normally need supporting paperwork from parents such as
- Copy of birth certificate
- Passport type photo – mobile pic is fine
- Headmaster’s authority to be absent from school
If you haven’t been through the process before it can seem to be a fairly daunting and bureaucratic & process. It isn’t as hard as it looks and licenses are usually issued on time providing all the paperwork is submitted correctly and ASAP.
WARNING
A child cannot take part in a performance without a license.
To ensure that the application goes smoothly you must get the requested paperwork back to us as quickly as possible.
How long does it take?
Typically, the process takes around 7 to 10 days. However, this does vary enormously depending on the council involved.
Some councils will often issue a license (providing all the correct paperwork is in place) within 48 hours. Other councils quote 21 days.
It can be a bit of a lottery and can be quite a stressful roller coaster if there is a tight production schedule to meet.
Conclusion
To sum up, any child under the age of 16 who wishes to take part in any form of media performance, whether paid or unpaid, must have a valid performance license.
The responsibility for obtaining the license lies with the production company, which may appoint an agency or representative to handle the application process.
By following the guidelines for working hours and ensuring that the child’s education and well-being are protected, productions can ensure that they comply with UK labor laws and create a safe and supportive environment for young performers.