Apply for a child performance licence
Children taking part in public performances or activities may require a performance licence from their local authority. This applies to various types of work, including:
- stage performances
- television, film, or commercial work
- modelling
- paid or professional sports
When is a licence required?
A child performance licence is required if any of the following apply:
- The child will be paid for their performance
- The child will miss more than half a school day for the performance
- The child has performed for more than four days within a six month period, including the date(s) of the upcoming performance
If none of these conditions apply, a performance licence is not needed. However, the child may need to be covered under Body of Persons Approval (BOPA). Find out more about BOPA.
The person responsible for the production or activity must apply for the licence at least 21 days before the first performance or activity.
What you will need to apply
When applying online, you must scan and upload the following documents:
- A completed child performance licence application form (PDF), which includes a medical declaration
- A recent passport-sized photo of the child
- Proof of permission from the child’s school
- Proof of permission from the child’s parent(s) or carer(s)
- A copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport
- A risk assessment relating to the child’s role
- A copy of the child protection or safeguarding policy
- A contract, draft contract, or agreement outlining the child’s participation in the performance or activity