Child performance licence
A performance licence outlines the arrangements in place for a child to take part in a performance. The licence is needed before the performance takes place. An adult responsible for the production, such as a producer, must apply for licence. The licence must be held on set in case of an inspection.
The legislation around performance licences is the Children and Young Persons Act.
Who needs a performance licence
Children from birth to 16 years need a performance licence if they:
- perform on television
- perform in film
- perform on stage
- perform in commercial work
- work as models
- take part in paid or professional sport
This means up to the last Friday in June of the school year in which they are 16 and leaving year 11.
In some cases a child performance licence may not be needed. We will consider an exemption when the child:
- has not performed for more than 4 days in the previous 6 months
- isn't getting paid
- doesn't need to take time off school
Before you start
You will need a:
- passport sized photo
- a copy of the child's birth certificate or valid passport
- a letter from the school authorising time off school, if needed
You will need a medical certificate, valid for 6 months from date of issue, if a child is taking part in a:
- broadcast performance (TV or radio) that lasts more than a week and the child performs on 6 days during that week (5 days for sound broadcasting)
- sporting activity or modelling
Apply for a licence or exemption
Complete the Child Performance and Activities Licence application form the application form and return it to us.
Or complete the Children's Performance Licence exemption form and return it to us.
We aim to process any performance or exemption licence applications within 28 working days after we've received the form. We can't guarantee this deadline, especially during busy periods like Easter, November and Christmas.
Read our Dorset Council child performance licensing policy.
Chaperone licences
All children engaged in a public performance or entertainment under a performance licence must legally be supervised by a licensed chaperone or their parent.
Find out more about chaperone licences.
Read our child performance licence privacy notice to find out how we use your application information.