Child performance licences
A child will need a performance licence if they are under the required school age and will be paid to take part in:
- tv
- film
- theatrical performance (including rehearsals)
- sport
- modelling
No licence is needed if the:
- child has taken part in performances for no more than 3 days in the last 6 months
- performance is organised by a school or an approved body (scout shows)
Children can perform for a limited amount of time without a licence, but it must not affect their school attendance.
If the child is being paid, they will need a performance licence, even if they do not miss school.
Documents you need
To apply for a licence you will need:
- online application form filled out by the parents or carers of the child and agent or producer
- a recent passport sized photo (taken within the last 6 months) in one of the following formats.jpg, .jpeg, .bmp, .png or .gif
- medical letter from the child's GP (if needed)
- birth certificate or proof of the child's age
- copy of rehearsals and performance schedule
- permission letter from school for absence during rehearsals or performances
- child protection and safeguarding policy from the applicant
- risk assessment (if needed)
- contract or draft contract
Issuing the licence
We aim to issue a licence within 10 working days, if we have all the documents.
The council can refuse applications that do not allow enough time for assessment.
We do not accept email copies, and we do not issue 6 month open licences.