 Your first annual fee is due 30 days after your licence is issued and is reduced by 25 percent (ancillary and linked licence annual fees are not subject to this reduction).

 After this, fees are due every year before the anniversary of the day your licence was issued.

|  Fee category  |  Annual gross value of sales  |  Annual Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  F1  |  Less than £200,000  |  £4,310  |
|  F2  |  £200,000 or greater, up to but excluding £550,000  |  £6,668  |
|  G1  |  £550,000 or greater, up to but excluding £6.6 million  |  £20,473  |
|  H1  |  £6.6 million or greater, up to but excluding £30 million  |  £33,197  |
|  H2  |  £30 million or greater  |  £56,602  |


Remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence

* [Non-remote gaming machine technical - full licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical - full licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)
* [Non-remote linked licences gaming machine technical](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)
* [Remote linked licences gaming machine technical](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)

 Last updated: 9 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Corrected formatting issues only.


Remote linked licences gaming machine technical

If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.


Restrictions on the activities that can be conducted under linked licences

 A linked licence for gaming machines will allow you to supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair a gaming machine (or part of such a machine) but only in circumstances where you make those gaming machines available to customers on your own gambling premises (for example in an adult gaming centre or family entertainment centre)

 A linked licence for gambling software will allow you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software, but only in circumstances where the gambling software is used in connection with gambling facilities (for example an online casino or sportsbook) provided by you.


Financial restrictions on linked licences

 In order to ensure that linked licences are only used for activities that represent a small element of your business, there are financial restrictions.

 You cannot incur costs any greater than £50,000 per annum in any given year in pursuit of the activities authorised by the linked licence. The £50,000 cost includes for example the purchase of new parts or paying for new systems, along with labour costs.

 If your business conducts activities that exceed any of the restrictions previously outlined, you will not be able to hold a linked licence and will instead need to apply for a gambling software or a gaming machine technical operating licence.


###  Gaming machines

* **Linked remote gaming machine technical (supplier)**
 Permits the supply, installation, adaptation, maintenance or repair of a gaming machine, or part of a gaming machine (including software) by remote means.

###  Gambling software

* **Linked remote gambling software**
 Permits the manufacture, supply, installation or adaptation gambling software for use in connection with gambling facilities by remote means.

###  Examples of activities that may require a linked licence

* making changes that alter the category of the machine
* a linked licence is not required if you arrange for these actions to be carried out by the licensed manufacturer and/or supplier.

###  Actions that do not require a linked licence

* changing a power supply unit (like for like)
* where any device (storing game or system software) has been supplied directly from a technical licence holder for direct installation or use in automated installation, provided no modification of the software takes place outside the control of the technical licence holder and adequate security safeguards are used to ensure its continued integrity
* changing the front display of the machine (including glass or paper artwork but not software modifications for video display)
* changing display notices on the machine
* cleaning the machine
* clearing coin jams
* changing fuses
* moving the machine to a new location within the operators own licensed premises
* changing percentage, stake and/or prize settings (provided this does not require any software modification)
* swapping out components (like for like) provided that component cannot affect the outcome of the game (note acceptors, coin mechanisms etc) and that no software installation is required.

###  Linked licence application and annual fees

 Please note that discounts that normally apply to application and annual fees do not apply to linked licences (linked licences are already discounted versions of the gambling software and gaming machine technical operating licences).

###  Linked licence application fee

|  Linked activity  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- |
|  Linked gambling software  |  £165  |
|  Linked gaming machine technical  |  £165  |

###  Linked licence annual fee

|  Linked activity  |  Annual Fee  |
| --- | --- |
|  Linked gambling software  |  £375  |
|  Linked gaming machine technical  |  £375  |


* [Remote gaming machine technical - full licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)

 Last updated: 9 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Corrected formatting issues only.


Non-remote society lottery operating licence

Society lotteries can only be run for good causes and cannot be run for private or commercial gain. Local authorities can promote a lottery to raise funds to spend on anything where they have power to incur expenditure.


|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  A1  |  Up to £100,000  |  £235  |
|  B1  |  £100,000 or greater, up to but excluding £500,000  |  £352  |
|  C1  |  £500,000 or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £469  |
|  D1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £20 million  |  £1,340  |
|  E1  |  £20 million or greater, up to but excluding £30 million  |  £2,233  |
|  E2  |  £30 million or greater  |  £3,572  |


 Your first annual fee is due 30 days after your licence is issued and is reduced by 25 percent (ancillary and linked licence annual fees are not subject to this reduction).

 After this, fees are due every year before the anniversary of the day your licence was issued.

|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  A1  |  Up to £100,000  |  £400  |
|  B1  |  £100,000 or greater, up to but excluding £500,000  |  £796  |
|  C1  |  £500,000 or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £1,677  |
|  D1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £20 million  |  £3,350  |
|  E1  |  £20 million or greater, up to but excluding £30 million  |  £5,025  |
|  E2  |  £30 million or greater  |  £8,350  |


 If you are applying for or already hold a non-remote society lottery operating licence, but want to accept payments for participation in a lottery online (or by other remote means) up to a maximum of £250,000 proceeds per annum, you can apply for an ancillary remote licence to your main licence.

 If you only wish to conduct lotteries by remote means, a full remote society lottery operating licence will be required.

 **Ancillary remote application fee: £100**
 **Ancillary remote annual fee: £50**

 [Promoting society and local authority lotteries

 PDF 223.7 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/2sF7DEkU5pZroR8489EGcB/cc7c47e32804a8d60f9d63780dd37e81/Promoting-society-and-local-authority-lotteries.pdf)


* [Remote society lottery licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-society-lottery-licence)
* [Non-remote external lottery manager operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-external-lottery-manager-operating-licence)
* [Remote external lottery manager operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-external-lottery-manager-operating-licence)

 Last updated: 9 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Corrected formatting issues only.


|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  F1  |  Less than £100,000  |  £235  |
|  G1  |  £100,000 or greater, up to but excluding £500,000  |  £352  |
|  H1  |  £500,000 or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £469  |
|  I1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £20 million  |  £1,340  |
|  J1  |  £20 million or greater, up to but excluding £30 million  |  £2,233  |
|  K1  |  £30 million or greater  |  £3,572  |


 Your first annual fee is due 30 days after your licence is issued and is reduced by 25 percent (ancillary and linked licence annual fees are not subject to this reduction).

 After this, fees are due every year before the anniversary of the day your licence was issued.

|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Annual Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  F1  |  Less than £100,000  |  £400  |
|  G1  |  £100,000 or greater, up to but excluding £500,000  |  £796  |
|  H1  |  £500,000 or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £1,677  |
|  I1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £20 million  |  £3,350  |
|  J1  |  £20 million or greater, up to but excluding £30 million  |  £5,025  |
|  K1  |  £30 million or greater  |  £8,350  |


* [Non-remote society lottery operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-society-lottery-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote external lottery manager operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-external-lottery-manager-operating-licence)
* [Remote external lottery manager operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-external-lottery-manager-operating-licence)

 Last updated: 9 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Corrected formatting issues only.


Non-remote external lottery manager operating licence

This licence allows you to manage a lottery on behalf of a society or local authority.


 A society or local authority lottery may employ an external lottery manager (ELM) to make the arrangements for the lottery on their behalf. All ELMs must hold an ELM operating licence.

 ELMs are commercial companies that manage lotteries and provide services to society and local authority lotteries. ELMs may need to hold both a  **remote**  and  **non-remote**  licence if they are involved in promoting both types of lottery.


|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  A1  |  Less than £550,000  |  £1,406  |
|  B1  |  £550,000 or greater, up to but excluding £2.5 million  |  £2,342  |
|  C1  |  £2.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £5.5 million  |  £2,704  |
|  D1  |  £5.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £3,280  |
|  E1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £17.5 million  |  £3,638  |
|  E2  |  £17.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £35 million  |  £6,946  |
|  E3  |  £35 million or greater  |  £13,230  |


 Your first annual fee is due 30 days after your licence is issued and is reduced by 25 percent (ancillary and linked licence annual fees are not subject to this reduction).

 After this, fees are due every year before the anniversary of the day your licence was issued.

|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Annual Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  A1  |  Less than £550,000  |  £2,386  |
|  B1  |  £550,000 or greater, up to but excluding £2.5m  |  £2,723  |
|  C1  |  £2.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £5.5 million  |  £4,651  |
|  D1  |  £5.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £7,676  |
|  E1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £17.5 million  |  £18,185  |
|  E2  |  £17.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £35 million  |  £26,028  |
|  E3  |  £35 million or greater  |  £35,100  |

 [Promoting lotteries under umbrella brands

 PDF 174.1 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/2rpIN2gkOQVOP9BANWd2T2/0049c8486f5a709b4bb9f91719323bbe/Promoting-multiple-society-lotteries.pdf) [External lottery managers

 PDF 367.5 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/2yUkejkARiqKzcQKrTgFNL/b7cc5d2e8572a47520d20f34ff683114/External-lottery-managers-advice.pdf)


* [Non-remote society lottery operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-society-lottery-operating-licence)
* [Remote external lottery manager operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-external-lottery-manager-operating-licence)
* [Remote society lottery licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-society-lottery-licence)

 Last updated: 9 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Corrected formatting issues only.


Remote external lottery manager operating licence


 A society or local authority lottery may employ an external lottery manager (ELM) to make the arrangements for the lottery on their behalf. All ELMs must hold an ELM operating licence.

 ELMs are commercial companies that manage lotteries and provide services to society and local authority lotteries. ELMs may need to hold both a remote and non-remote licence if they are involved in promoting both types of lottery.


|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  F1  |  Less than £550,000  |  £1,406  |
|  G1  |  £550,000 or greater, up to but excluding £2.5 million  |  £2,342  |
|  H1  |  £2.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £5.5 million  |  £2,706  |
|  I1  |  £5.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £3,280  |
|  J1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £17.5 million  |  £3,547  |
|  K1  |  £17.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £35 million  |  £6,946  |
|  L1  |  £35 million or greater  |  £13,230  |


 Your first annual fee is due 30 days after your licence is issued and is reduced by 25 percent (ancillary and linked licence annual fees are not subject to this reduction).

 After this, fees are due every year before the anniversary of the day your licence was issued.

|  Fee category  |  Annual proceeds  |  Application Fee  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  F1  |  Less than £550,000  |  £7,780  |
|  G1  |  £550,000 or greater, up to but excluding £2.5 million  |  £21,922  |
|  H1  |  £2.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £5.5 million  |  £28,028  |
|  I1  |  £5.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £10 million  |  £42,557  |
|  J1  |  £10 million or greater, up to but excluding £17.5 million  |  £56,227  |
|  K1  |  £17.5 million or greater, up to but excluding £35 million  |  £67,250  |
|  L1  |  £35 million or greater  |  £78,850  |

 [External lottery managers

 PDF 367.5 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/2yUkejkARiqKzcQKrTgFNL/b7cc5d2e8572a47520d20f34ff683114/External-lottery-managers-advice.pdf)


* [Non-remote society lottery operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-society-lottery-operating-licence)
* [Remote society lottery licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-society-lottery-licence)
* [Non-remote external lottery manager operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-external-lottery-manager-operating-licence)

 Last updated: 9 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Corrected formatting issues only.


 Premises licence holders must conduct a local risk assessment for each of your current premises. This is a social responsibility code which helps you demonstrate how you aim to address the local risks to the licensing objectives.

 [LCCP: Social responsibility code 10.1.1](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/condition/10-1-1-assessing-local-risk)

 [LCCP: Ordinary code 10.1.2](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/condition/10-1-2-sharing-local-risk-assessments)

 This applies to:

* adult gaming centres
* family entertainment centres
* non-remote betting
* non-remote bingo
* non-remote casinos
* remote betting intermediaries (trading room only).

 You will also be required to conduct or update a risk assessment when:

* applying for a new premises licence
* applying for a variation to a premises licence
* changes in the local environment or your own premises warrant a risk assessment to be conducted again.

##  What should a local risk assessment include?

##  Why do I need to have a local risk assessment?

##  Do I have to submit my local risk assessment to my licensing authority?

---

 Last updated: 28 November 2022

 Show updates to this content  Following an audit the link to 'LCCP: Social responsibility code 10.1.1' has been updated.


What should a local risk assessment include?

 When conducting local risk assessments you must take into account the relevant matters identified in your licensing authority’s statement of licensing policy.

 We expect your risk assessment to be structured in a manner that offers sufficient assurance that your premises has suitable controls and procedures in place. These controls should reflect the level of risk within your particular area, which will be determined by local circumstances.

 Your risk assessment should take into account the risks presented by the local landscape. For example, if you are near a school it should explain how you mitigate the risk of underage gambling.

 Your local licensing authority can challenge your risk assessment if they feel there is evidence that local risks have not been taken into consideration.


Why do I need to have a local risk assessment?

The aim of this requirement is to enable you to engage with your local licensing authority in constructive dialogue. Doing so at an early stage reduces the likelihood of costly enforcement action at a later date.


Do I have to submit my local risk assessment to my licensing authority?

 Whilst there is no statutory requirement for you to share your risk assessments with responsible authorities or interested parties, it is best practice.

 We recommend you hold premises risks assessments on the premises. Doing so can save considerable time and expense, as well as increasing the confidence of those agencies as to your awareness of your obligations.


* [Local area risk assessments](#)
* [What should a local risk assessment include?](#what-should-a-local-risk-assessment-include)
* [Why do I need to have a local risk assessment?](#why-do-i-need-to-have-a-local-risk-assessment)
* [Do I have to submit my local risk assessment to my licensing authority?](#do-i-have-to-submit-my-local-risk-assessment-to-my-licensing-authority)

 [Print this guide](#)


 You must tell us if something changes with your business that affects the details on your licence, as a new version of your licence must be issued. If this happens you may also need to pay a fee.

 Other changes require you to submit a  [key event](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)  or  [LCCP notification](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/lccp-notifications)  . These must be submitted using eServices. There are no fees for submitting these.

 For changes made online using eservices, fees can be paid online using a credit or debit card when you submit your application.

 For changes made offline, you must pay any fees using BACS and/or Faster Payments, which you can find on the  [paying fees](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)  page. Payment must be made on the same day you submit the application form to us.


If you are undergoing enforcement action and/or compliance assessments

 If you are undergoing enhanced compliance or other regulatory investigation, you must notify the Compliance and/or Enforcement team before you make any of the following changes:

* registered address
* correspondence address
* domain name changes
* head office address
* trading name changes.

##  Changes you can make online

##  Changes that cannot be made online

##  Files


 You can make most changes online in  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  and pay any fees using a credit or debit card (except American Express).

###  Head Office address changes

 Changes to the Head Office and trading names will result in a new licence being issued.

 You can use  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  to change your Head Office address. Changes to a Head Office address will result in a new licence being issued.

###  Registered and correspondence address changes

 You can use  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  to change your registered and correspondence addresses. Your correspondence address must be based in the United Kingdom. We will use this address to communicate with you. You should only make this change once you have moved address.

 Cost: free

###  Add, change or remove trading names

 You can use  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  to add, change or remove your trading name. Any change to a trading name will result in a new licence being issued.

 It is your responsibility to ensure that any proposed domain or trading name is considered socially responsible and is compliant with legislative and regulatory requirements including:

* the  [Licence Conditions and Code of Practice](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  and any applicable guidance
* the Committees of Advertising Practice (CAP)
* Broadcast of Committees of Advertising Practice (BCAP).

 Trading names also need to be compliant with the  [Companies Act 2006 (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/46/contents)  .

###  Adding a licensed activity

 You can add new licence activities to your existing licence using  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  . However, if you want to add an additional licence, for example if you hold a non-remote operating licence only and are intending to add remote activities, you will need to  [apply for a new operating licence online](/service/apply-for-an-operating-licence)  .

 To add new licence activities to your existing licence, you must provide the following information for both remote and non-remote activities:

* new business plan to explain how the activity will be made available and any staffing changes
* financial forecast for the activity for the first 12 months
* evidence of funding for the activity, for example copy of Loan agreement, evidence of source of funds for investments and bank statements
* amended policy statements that demonstrate how the activity to be added complies with  [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)
* customer terms and conditions, if applicable.

 If you are adding a remote activity, you must also provide the following:

* remote technical standards and testing strategy policies
* operational model map
* system diagram for the end-to-end process.

 If you are adding  [non-remote general betting limited activity](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-limited-operating-licence)  , you must also provide the following:

* a contract of employment for all staff who will be taking bets
* an Annex A for all staff who will be taking bets.

 Cost: 25 percent of standard licence application fee

###  Removing a licensed activity

 You can remove a licence activity using  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  . You do not need to provide any supporting documentation.

 Cost: £40

###  Fee category changes

 You can make fee category changes using  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  . For a fee category increase by 1 level only, you do not need to provide any supporting documentation.

 If you need to increase your fee category by 2 or more categories, then you will need to provide the following documents:

* new or updated financial projections
* new or updated business plan
* evidence of how the expansion of the business is funded.

 If you need to decrease your fee category you will need to provide a full explanation of why.

 Cost: £40


 Some changes cannot be made online, please see the following details for how to make these changes.

 You must pay any fees for these changes using BACS and/or Faster Payments, which you can find on the  [paying fees](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)  page. Payment must be made on the same day you submit the application form to us.

###  Change of Corporate Control

 For details on what a change of corporate control is and how to tell us about it, read our  [Change of Corporate Control guidance](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/change-of-corporate-control)  .

###  Change of Legal Entity

 For details on what a change of legal entity is and how to tell us about it, read our  [Change of Legal Entity guidance](/licensees-and-businesses/page/change-of-legal-entity)  .

###  Operating name changes

 Operating name changes only apply to companies. Sole proprietors and partnerships must see  [Change of Legal Entity guidance](/licensees-and-businesses/page/change-of-legal-entity)  .

 If the company number has changed as well as the name, your existing licence automatically lapses and you must  [apply for a new operating licence online](/service/apply-for-an-operating-licence)  .

 Cost: £40 per licence

###  Add, change or remove a licence condition

 If you want to add, change or remove a licence condition (other than the condition relating to your fee category), you must supply relevant supporting evidence that demonstrates why the condition should be added, changed or removed.

 For example, if your application is to add a condition to allow a company to  [operate under another company’s licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/operating-under-another-companys-licence)  , you must demonstrate how that company meets our general principles for this.

 If your application is to remove a condition attached as a result of a  [review of the licence under s116 of the Gambling Act 2005](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005/5-regulatory-enforcement)  , you must provide evidence that demonstrates that you have complied with that condition.

 Cost: if the condition relates to one licensed activity, it will cost 25 percent of the application fee for the related activity. If the condition relates to multiple licensed activities, it will cost 25 percent of the highest application fee for the activities to which the condition relates.

###  Adding a person to Schedule X

 [Schedule X changes](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/adding-or-removing-a-named-person-to-your-licence-schedule-x)  only apply to Small Scale Operators (SSO). Schedule X names the people who occupy the key management positions (key persons).

 To add people to Schedule X of your licence, you must submit an  [operating licence variation application form (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L/88c101059292cf6b25c0262ef59bd24c/Operating-licence-application-to-vary-form.pdf)  and pay a fee. To add a person to Schedule X, the person to be added must complete an Annex A. They must do this online through the  [apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  .

 Adding a key person also requires a  [key event](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)  to be submitted.

 Cost: £160 per person per licence. Where multiple licences are held, a £40 fee will be charged for any additional licences. Where the personal to be added is already approved, it will cost £40 per person per licence.

 If by adding a person you have more than three people in relevant management positions, you are no longer an SSO. You must apply to vary the licence to remove Schedule X and all new people in relevant management positions must  [apply for Personal Management Licences (PML)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  . Existing people in key management positions have three years from the date you ceased to be SSO to apply for PMLs.

###  Removing a person from Schedule X

 To remove people from your licence, you must submit an  [operating licence variation application form (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L/88c101059292cf6b25c0262ef59bd24c/Operating-licence-application-to-vary-form.pdf)  and pay a fee.

 To remove a person from Schedule X, you must indicate if they are being replaced and, if not, who will take over their responsibilities.

 Removing a key person also requires a  [key event](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)  to be submitted.

 Cost to remove Schedule X: £40 per person per licence.

###  Adding a person to Schedule Y

 [Schedule Y changes](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/adding-or-removing-a-representative-from-your-operating-licence-schedule-y)  only apply to operating licensees who hold a  [non-remote general betting limited licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-limited-operating-licence)  and qualify as a Small Scale Operator (SSO). Schedule Y names the people who are on-course representatives.

 To add people to Schedule Y of your licence, you must submit an  [operating licence variation application form (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L/88c101059292cf6b25c0262ef59bd24c/Operating-licence-application-to-vary-form.pdf)  and pay a fee.

 To add a person to Schedule Y, the person to be added must also complete an  [Annex A](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)  and provide their contract of employment. They must do this online through the  [apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  .

 Cost: £160 per person per licence. Where multiple licences are held, a £40 fee will be charged for any additional licences. Where the person to be added is already approved, it will cost £40 per person per licence.

###  Removing a person from Schedule Y

 To remove people from your licence, you must submit an  [operating licence variation application form (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L/88c101059292cf6b25c0262ef59bd24c/Operating-licence-application-to-vary-form.pdf)  and pay a fee.

 To remove a person from Schedule Y, you must indicate if they are being replaced and, if not, who will take over their responsibilities.

 Cost to remove Schedule Y: £40 per person per licence.


 Some files may not be accessible for users of assistive technology. If you require a copy of the file in an accessible format  [contact us](/forms/formatrequest)  with details of what you require. It would help us to know what technology you use and the required format.

 **PDF Files**  Some PDF files cannot be displayed in a browser, you will see a message saying 'Please wait...'. If you see this message, you will need to download the file and open it in  [Adobe Acrobat Reader (opens in a new tab)](https://get.adobe.com/reader/)  .

 [Operating licence variation application form

 application/pdf PDF 555.0 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L/88c101059292cf6b25c0262ef59bd24c/Operating-licence-application-to-vary-form.pdf)

---

 Last updated: 28 March 2023

 Show updates to this content  Updated to clarify process.

 Additional information provided relating to the documentation required for:

* adding a licensed activity
* fee category changes
* adding, changing or removing a licence condition
* Schedule X and Schedule Y changes.


* [Make changes to your operating licence](#)
* [Changes you can make online](#changes-you-can-make-online)
* [Changes that cannot be made online](#changes-that-cannot-be-made-online)

 [Print this guide](#)


Guidance for licensed and unlicensed Family Entertainment Centres and Adult Gaming Centres.


* [Types of operating licence](#generic-types-of-operating-licence)
* [Licence activities](#arcades-licences-and-fees-licence-activities)
* [Fees](#generic-fees-you-need-to-pay)
* [Calculating your fees](#generic-calculating-your-fees)
* [Personal Management Licences](#generic-personal-management-licences)
* [Annex A](#generic-annex-a-declaration)
* [Premises licence](#arcades-licences-and-fees-premises)


* [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)](#generic-legislation-and-policies-lccp)
* [Policies and guidance](#generic-legislation-and-policies-policies-and-guidance)
* [Technical standards](#arcades-technical-standards)


* [Information you'll need for getting a licence](#arcades-getting-a-licence-information-youll-need-for-getting-a-licence)
* [Apply online](#generic-operating-licence-application)
* [Assessing your application](#generic-assessing-your-application)
* [Your licence](#generic-your-licence)


* [Compliance](#generic-compliance)
* [What you need to tell us](#generic-what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-a-licence)
* [Public Register](#generic-public-register)
* [Making changes to your licence](#generic-making-changes-to-your-licence)
* [Surrendering your licence](#generic-surrendering-your-licence)


 There are three types of amusement arcade under the Gambling Act 2005.

 These are:

1. Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) - high-street outlets with gaming machines only available to over 18s including slots, casino-style games and fruit machines. AGCs must have a Gambling Commission licence.
2. [Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centres (uFECs)](/authorities/guide/unlicensed-family-entertainment-centres-ufecs)  - such as family-friendly amusement arcades and small arcades in holiday parks and resorts. Unlicensed FECs must have a permit from the local licensing authority.
3. Family Entertainment Centres (FECs) - larger arcades which cater for a range of ages. They're allowed to provide an unlimited number of certain types of gaming machine in a premises which is open to all ages. Category C machines must be in a segregated, supervised area to stop under 18s from playing. FECs must have a Gambling Commission licence.

 Read more about the  [types of amusement arcades](/licensees-and-businesses/page/types-of-amusement-arcade)  .


 There are different types of licence that arcade businesses may need to apply for, you may need more than of the following:

* [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
* [Personal Management Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
* [premises licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence)
* [Annex A for small-scale operators](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)

 We issue operating licences and personal licences; premises licences are issued by local licensing authorities.

* [**Guidance**  Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centres (UFECs)

 UFECs are premises which are wholly or mainly used for making gaming machines available.](/authorities/guide/unlicensed-family-entertainment-centres-ufecs)

###  Types of operating licence

 An operating licence allows you to provide gambling activities to customers in Great Britain.

* [**Guidance**  Operating licences

 An operating licence is required to provide most gambling facilities in Great Britain.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
###  Licence activities

 You can apply to us for a licence to provide arcade games in a premises (non-remote).

##  Activities

###  Fees

 The fees you need to pay depend on what you are applying for, and what your anticipated gross gambling yield (GGY) is.

* [**Guidance**  Fees you need to pay and when you should pay them

 Information on the fees for each licence, when these will need to be paid, and the payment methods you can use.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/fees-you-need-to-pay-and-when)
* [**Guidance**  Annual fees

 Information and guidance about annual fees for operating licence holders.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annual-fees)
* [**Guidance**  Paying fees

 Find out how to pay fees to the Gambling Commission.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)
###  Calculating your fees

 Our online fees calculator can help you with understanding the amounts of your application, first annual and annual fees.

* [**Service**  Operating licence fees calculator

 Calculate application, first annual and annual fees for operating licences.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/publicfeecalc "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Personal Management Licences

 Personal Management Licences allow people to work in certain roles in a gambling business.

 Some businesses do not require personal licences to be held. Instead, you need to submit an Annex A. These are required for businesses with three employees or less.

* [**Guidance**  Personal Management Licence (PML) guide

 Information on PMLs, including the specific roles that require one, the fees you will have to pay, and how you can apply.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
###  Annex A

 If your business qualifies as a  [small-scale operator](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  , you can submit an Annex A instead of applying for a Personal Management Licence.

* [**Guidance**  Annex A guide

 Information about Annex As and when they are required.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)
###  Premises licence

 You will need a premises licence to provide arcade games to players in a non-remote setting. You will need to apply to the licensing authority the premises is located, to get a premises licence.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for any premises licences.
>
>

* [**Guidance**  Premises licence

 Information on premises licences, which businesses require one, and what you need to do before applying.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence)


* [All](#all)
* [Non-remote](#Non-remote)

##  All activities

##  Non-remote licence activities


* [Adult gaming centre

 This licence is for Adult Gaming Centres (AGC), often called arcades.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/adult-gaming-centre)
* [Family entertainment centre

 This licence is for Family Entertainment Centres (FEC), often called arcades.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/family-entertainment-centre)


 Gambling in Great Britain and the Gambling Commission's duties and responsibilities are detailed in the Gambling Act 2005.

 The following legislation and policies are also applicable to operating licence holders.

* [Gambling Act 2005

 Gambling Act 2005 (link opens in new window)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents "Link opens in a new tab")

###  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all operating and personal licence holders must follow.

* [**Guidance**  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all licensees must follow when running a gambling business or working in the industry.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/lccp)
###  Policies and guidance

 The following guidance and policies are also relevant for all licensees.

* [**Policy**  Licensing, compliance and enforcement under the Gambling Act 2005

 The Commission’s approach to risk underpins its licensing, compliance and enforcement functions.](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for licensing and regulation

 The Commission's statement of principles for licensing and regulation.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-licensing-and-regulation)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for determining financial penalties

 The Commission's statement of principles for determining financial penalties.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-determining-financial-penalties)
* [**Guidance**  Other policies, advice and guidance notes

 We are gradually removing PDF's from our website. Find published advice notes and guidance in PDF's we've not yet converted.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/all-policies-advice-and-guidance-notes)
* [**Guidance**  Anti-money laundering legislation

 Anti-money laundering legislation and regulatory codes of practice operators must comply with.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/anti-money-laundering-legislation)
###  Technical standards

 All licence holders must comply with our technical standards and requirements. However, these standards should not be used as a measure of reliability, quality or security.

 These standards and requirements permit equivalence between different types of technology and do not specify proprietary products or technologies.

 Testing regimes for these standards will permit equivalent international standards (ISO).

* [**Guidance**  Remote gambling and software technical standards (RTS) guidance

 Gambling software and remote operating licence holders (including ancillary remote betting) are required to comply with our remote technical standards (RTS).](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)
* [**Standards**  Remote gambling and software technical standards (RTS)

 Remote gambling and software technical standards under section 89 and section 97 of the Gambling Act 2005.](/standards/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)
* [**Strategy**  Testing strategy for compliance with remote gambling and software technical standards

 Requirements for the timing and procedures for the testing of remote gambling products.](/strategy/testing-strategy-for-compliance-with-remote-gambling-and-software-technical)


 You can apply online for an adult gaming centre (AGC) or licensed family entertainment centre (FEC) licence. You do not require a licence for unlicensed family entertainment centres (UFECs).

 The length of an arcade application depends on the complexity of your business.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for a premises licence from the local licensing authority.
>
>

* [**Guidance**  What you need to send us when you apply for an operating licence

 Find out which documents you will need when applying for an operating licence for your gambling business.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-send-us-when-you-apply-for-an-operating-licence)

###  Information you'll need for getting a licence

 We will ask you to provide information about you and your business as part of your licence application.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to send us when you apply for an operating licence

 Find out which documents you will need when applying for an operating licence for your gambling business.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-send-us-when-you-apply-for-an-operating-licence)
###  Apply online

 You can use our online service to apply for an operating licence.

 If you have not used the service before, you'll need an email address only you can access to be able to create an account.

>  Make sure you include all the information we ask for when you submit your application. If your application is rejected because something is missing, we will not refund your application fee.
>
>

* [**Service**  Apply for a licence to operate a gambling business

 Use this service if you want to apply for a licence to run a gambling business.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/ApplicationHub/Account/Login "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Assessing your application

###  If your application is rejected

 We will send you a letter explaining which documents are missing and you'll need to reapply online.

 You must provide the missing documents, as well as the documents you included originally, and you will need to pay the application fee again.

* [**Guidance**  How we assess operating licence applications

 Find out what we consider when assessing an operating licence application.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/how-we-assess-operating-licence-applications)
###  Your licence

 If we grant you a licence to run a gambling business, you will be able to download a copy of your licence from eServices.

 You must make your licence available for inspection by request from Gambling Commission staff, licensing authority staff or other official bodies such as the police or fire service.

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")


 An important part of the Gambling Commission’s work is to ensure that licence holders are compliant. Compliance requires licence holders to understand and act in accordance with:

* the  [Gambling Act 2005](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  (opens in a new tab)
* regulations (statutory instruments) made under the Gambling Act 2005
* the  [Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP)](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp)
* any  [technical standards](#arcades-technical-standards)  that apply to operating licences.

 Compliance activity is based on risk and the risk that each licensed activity poses to the Gambling Commission’s  [licensing objectives](/about-us/guide/licensing-objectives)  .

 The three licensing objectives are:

* keeping crime out of gambling
* ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly
* protecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

###  Compliance

 Guidance and information for running a compliant gambling business. Including information on how we carry out assessments, your responsibilities under the LCCP and other gambling-related legislation.

* [**Hub**  Compliance

 How we do compliance assessments and important compliance information.](/licensees-and-businesses/compliance)
###  What you need to tell us

 You are required to tell us about certain things that happen in your business, these are dependent on the licences and activities you hold.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to tell us when you hold an operating licence

 This guidance summarises all of the types of data and information that you are required to tell us when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-an-operating-licence)
* [**Guidance**  Key events for operators

 These guides will inform you of the key events you must tell us about when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)
* [**Guidance**  Guidance to operators for age verification test purchasing (non-remote)

 This guidance explains what data we need from you about age verification test purchasing when you hold a non-remote operating licence.](/guidance/guidance-to-operators-for-age-verification-test-purchasing-non-remote)
* [**Guidance**  Regulatory returns guidance

 Guidance for information collected in the Regulatory Returns service by licensing sector.](/guidance/regulatory-returns-guidance)
* [**Guidance**  Assurance statements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements if you are required to send us an assurance statement.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/assurance-statements)
* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine and remote games information requirements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements for games test, games annual audit and security audit reports.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-and-remote-games-information-requirements)
###  Public Register

 We provide details of all businesses and individuals we licence on our  [Public Register](/public-register)  service.

 When you are issued a licence, we will display the details of your licence on the register.

 This includes:

* your head office address
* details of the activities you are licensed for and from when
* domain and trading names you've told us about, and
* details of any regulatory action that has been carried out.

* [**Service**  Public Register of licensees, premises and regulatory actions

 The register lets you search and download information about licensed businesses, individuals and premises. You can also find information about regulatory action we have taken against licensees.](/public-register "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Making changes to your licence

 You can make most changes to your licence online, using eServices.

 You can:

* add or remove licence activities
* change the activity fee category up or down
* add or remove management or key people in the business
* add or remove trading names
* add or remove domain names for websites where you provide gambling.

>  Some of these  [changes require you to pay a fee](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  .
>
>

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Surrendering your licence

 If you no longer need your licence, you can surrender it.

* [**Guidance**  Surrender your operating licence

 Find out how to surrender your operating licence partially or in full.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/surrender-your-operating-licence)


 There are three types of amusement arcade.

 These are:

* [adult gaming centres (AGCs)](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/adult-gaming-centre)
* [licensed family entertainment centres (FECs)](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/family-entertainment-centre)
* [unlicensed family entertainment centres (UFECs)](/authorities/guide/unlicensed-family-entertainment-centres-ufecs)  .

 Unlicensed FECs are able to offer category D machines if they obtain a  [gaming machine permit](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/club-gaming-and-machine-permits)  from their local licensing authority. Any number of category D machines can be made available with such a permit (subject to non-gambling considerations, such as fire regulations and health and safety).

 !  **Warning  No one under the age of 18 years is allowed to enter an AGC or the adults only area of a licensed FEC. There are no age restrictions in unlicensed FECs.**


Gaming machines (fruit machines, slot machines) in arcade premises

 The three different types of amusement arcade can offer specific categories of gaming machine.

|  Type of arcade  |  Categories of machines permitted  |
| --- | --- |
|  AGC  |  [B3](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/b3-gaming-machines)  ,  [B4](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/b4-gaming-machines)  ,  [C](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/c-gaming-machines)  and  [D](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/d-gaming-machines)  |
|  FEC  |  [C](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/c-gaming-machines)  and  [D](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/d-gaming-machines)  |
|  UFEC  |  D  |

---

 Last updated: 8 June 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


How we assess operating licence applications

When we assess your application we consider whether your business will uphold the licensing objectives and if you are suitable to carry out the activities your licence will allow.


 When considering suitability we want to see evidence to support and enable an assessment for the following areas:

###  Identity and ownership

 Your identity and the identity of other people relevant to the application, for example, the person who ultimately owns a corporation that your business is a part of.

###  Finances

 Financial and other circumstances, past and present, and those of people relevant to the application, including the resources likely to be available to carry out the licensed activities.

###  Integrity

 Your honesty and trustworthiness and that of the people relevant to the application

###  Competence

 The experience, expertise, qualifications and history and yourself and the people relevant to the application.

###  Criminality

 Your criminal record and that of people relevant to the application.


 We will look at your policies in order to make sure that:

* the licensing objectives will be followed
* there is an understanding of the legislation overall
* evidence that your arrangements will meet social responsibility requirements.

 Our approach to licensing is set out in our  [Licensing, compliance and enforcement policy statement](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005)  .

 There is no requirement that an applicant be incorporated in a particular country or jurisdiction. However, it is important to note the requirement in  [section 69 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/69)  that states you must provide an address in the UK at which a document under the Act may be served.

>  If your head office and registered office addresses are overseas, you will have to provide a correspondence address that is in the UK at which papers can be posted to so that you receive them quickly.
>
>

 The address cannot be a PO Box and needs to be somewhere where you, for example, have a consistent staff presence or be the address of an official representative such as an accountant, solicitor or auditor. Such a correspondence address in the UK must be maintained for the life of the licence.

 [Previous page
 How to apply for an operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/how-to-apply-for-an-operating-licence)  [Next page
 Appeal against a decision made about your licence or application](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/appeal-against-a-decision-made-about-your-licence-or-application)

---

 Last updated: 7 June 2021

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 A key event is an event that could have a significant impact on the nature or structure of your business.

 We expect you to work with us in an open and cooperative way and to inform us of anything we might need to be aware.

 You need to tell us within five working days if any of the events listed below happen.

 More detail on key events is contained in the  [Licence conditions and codes of practice](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp)  under Licence condition 15.2.1.

 All key events are to be reported to us via the Key Events part of the  [eServices digital service (opens in a new tab)](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices)  on our website.


You must inform us of the following key events.

##  Operator status

##  Relevant persons and positions

##  Financial events

##  Legal or regulatory proceedings or reports

##  Gambling facilities

---

 Last updated: 28 June 2022

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


##  Key event 1:


If a company (or group company) is presented with a petition for winding up, or a winding up order has been made, or it enters administration or receivership. Or, if a person in a key position in a company, or a relevant shareholder, has entered into an Individual Voluntary Agreement (IVA), or is made bankrupt or sequestration of their estate is awarded.


##  Key event 2:

##  Key event 3:

##  Key event 4:


If any shareholder in your company (or holding company) holds 3% or more of the issued share capital of the company.


If your company (or a group company) takes a loan from any person not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.


Any changes to appointments of persons in ‘key positions’ in your company.


##  Key event 5:

##  Key event 6:

##  Key event 7:

##  Key event 8:


Any material change in your business’s banking arrangements.


Any breach of a covenant given to a bank or other lender to your business.


Any default by your company (or a group company) in making repayments on a loan.


Any change in your company’s arrangements for accepting payment from customers (e.g. change of payment processor).


Legal or regulatory proceedings or reports

##  Key event 9:

##  Key event 10:

##  Key event 11:

##  Key event 12:

##  Key event 13:

##  Key event 14:

##  Key event 15:


If an application for a gambling licence or permission made by your company (or any group company) in another jurisdiction is granted, withdrawn, or refused.


Any investigation by a professional, statutory, regulatory or government body into your company’s activities, or person in a ‘key position’, that could result in a sanction or penalty, which might cause us to question the company’s continued suitability to hold a licence from us.


Any criminal investigation, in any jurisdiction, involving your company, or a person in a ‘key position’ in the company, which might cause us to question if your business’s measures to keep crime out of gambling had failed.


The referral to your company’s Board (or audit and risk function) of material concerns raised by a third party (e.g. auditor), in any jurisdiction.


A disciplinary sanction for gross misconduct, including dismissal, against the holder of a personal licence or a person occupying a qualifying position.


Any material litigation against your company (or a group company), in any jurisdiction.


The unique reference numbers of any suspicious activity reports issued by the  [United Kingdom Financial Intelligence Unit (UKFIU) (opens in a new tab)](https://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/money-laundering-and-illicit-finance/suspicious-activity-reports)  .


##  Key event 16:

##  Key event 17:

##  Key event 18:


Any security breach that adversely affects the confidentiality of customer data; or prevents account access for longer than 12 hours.


Any gaming system fault (opens in a new tab) which has resulted in under or overpayments to a player.


Changes to trading on website domains (including mobile sites and applications) or broadcast media.


* [Key events for operators](#)
* [Operator status](#operator-status)
* [Relevant persons and positions](#relevant-persons-and-positions)
* [Financial events](#financial-events)
* [Legal or regulatory proceedings or reports](#legal-or-regulatory-proceedings-or-reports)
* [Gambling facilities](#gambling-facilities)

 [Print this guide](#)


 Assurance statements are designed to improve the focus and accountability on the delivery of the licensing objectives by the boards, or equivalent senior leadership structures, of large gambling businesses.

 The statements are intended to:

* be a relatively concise self-assessment of the risks to the licensing objectives posed by the business
* how well you are managing those risks
* where you need to improve and how you intend to do so.

 Assurance statements provide a means for your board to provide constructive challenge within the business on the effectiveness of your governance and risk management arrangements in facilitating positive consumer protection, addressing gambling-related harm and crime prevention measures.


##  Actively managing your risk

 We want you to embrace the challenges of the regulatory landscape by actively and effectively managing your risks and issues and to inform key business decisions. In turn, we are committed to a proportionate and risk-based regulatory regime.

 If licensing objectives are the focal point of your decision making and they are supported by good governance, risk management and a high level of compliance your business is less likely to present a risk.

 If this approach is successful, as we believe it will be, and over time more and more operators incorporate the licensing objectives into their corporate culture, the need for external regulatory scrutiny may decrease.

 The precise governance arrangements of organisations will vary depending on the size, nature, and complexity of your operations or on the gambling services you provide. We will take this into account when we receive and review your assurance statements.

 When we identify and select licensees to give us an assurance statement, we provide them with a templates to populate, as well as explanatory notes, and tell them how and when the statements are to be sent to us.

---

 Last updated: 25 February 2022

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 If you want to give up or surrender your operating licence in full or partially, you can do this in the following ways.

 Telephone:
 **0121 230 6511**  (option 2)

 Email:
 [licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk](mailto:licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk)

 Online:
 You can partially surrender your licences in eServices.


 If you hold a non-remote and a remote licence at the same time, but only want to surrender one of them, this is a partial surrender.

 A partial surrender will mean you cannot offer gambling activities under the licence you are surrendering but can continue to offer gambling under the remaining licence.

 You can  [submit this change using the variation application service in eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  .

 You can also make changes to the activities you hold and the category you are licensed for using eServices. Find out more about  [making changes to your operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  .


 We will only accept surrender requests from key people in the organisation, we will carry out checks to ensure it is a genuine request to surrender the licence in full or partially.

 When we receive your surrender request, the Gambling Commission account manager responsible for your account will contact you to ensure that the following actions are completed:

* outstanding regulatory returns are submitted
* outstanding lottery submissions are submitted.

 We will not complete the process of surrendering your licence until all outstanding returns are submitted.

 If you are a customer facing business, we will ensure our contact centre is aware of the surrender in case we receive any queries about your business.

 Once we are satisfied all outstanding reporting requirements are submitted, we will proceed with surrendering your licence. Once this is complete we will write to you confirming the completion of your request.


Personal licence holders and Annex A associated with your business

 If you are surrendering your licences in full, we will update any individuals who have an associated  [Annex A](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)  to inactive. We won’t change these where there is a partial surrender.

>  [Personal Functional Licences](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-functional-licence)  and  [Personal Management Licences](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  are issued to individuals; therefore, these licences will remain active.
>
>


 Once the surrender request has been processed, we will update the  [Public Register of businesses](/public-register/businesses)  to show the licences that have been surrendered. This will stay on the register for 3 years from the date of surrender.

---

 Last updated: 8 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Following an audit formatting changes only.


Information for betting in shops, tracks, racecourses and pools, including real and virtual betting.


* [Types of operating licence](#generic-types-of-operating-licence)
* [Licence activities](#betting-licences-and-fees-licence-activities)
* [Fees](#generic-fees-you-need-to-pay)
* [Calculating your fees](#generic-calculating-your-fees)
* [Personal Management Licences](#generic-personal-management-licences)
* [Annex A](#generic-annex-a-declaration)
* [Premises licence](#betting-licences-and-fees-premises)


* [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)](#generic-legislation-and-policies-lccp)
* [Policies and guidance](#generic-legislation-and-policies-policies-and-guidance)


* [Information you'll need for your application](#betting-getting-a-licence-information-youll-need-for-your-application)
* [Apply online](#generic-operating-licence-application)
* [Assessing your application](#generic-assessing-your-application)
* [Your licence](#generic-your-licence)


* [Compliance](#generic-compliance)
* [What you need to tell us](#generic-what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-a-licence)
* [Public Register](#generic-public-register)
* [Display of licensed status](#generic-display-of-licensed-status)
* [Making changes to your licence](#generic-making-changes-to-your-licence)
* [Surrendering your licence](#generic-surrendering-your-licence)


 There are three separate definitions of betting under The Gambling Act 2005.

 **1.**  Accepting a bet on:

* the outcome of a race, competition or other event or process
* the likelihood of anything occurring or not occurring
* whether anything is or is not true.

 **2.**  A transaction that relates to the outcome of a race, competition or other event or process may be a bet within the meaning of section 1 even if:

* the race, competition, event or process has already occurred or been completed
* one party to the transaction knows the outcome.

 **3.**  A transaction that relates to the likelihood of anything occurring or not occurring may be a bet within the meaning of section 1 even if:

* the thing has already occurred or failed to occur
* one party to the transaction knows that the thing has already occurred or failed to occur.

 You can read more about the legal definition of betting in  [Part 1 section 9 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)]( https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/part/1/crossheading/betting)


 Guidance for the betting sector.

* [**Guidance**  Betting: advice for remote, non-remote and betting intermediaries

 Advice note for remote, non-remote and betting intermediaries - October 2013 (updated October 2014)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/betting-advice-for-remote-non-remote-and-betting-intermediaries)
* [Betting on lotteries and lottery themed gaming products

 Information on betting on lotteries and lottery themed gaming products whilst being clear to consumers](/licensees-and-businesses/page/betting-on-lotteries-and-lottery-themed-gaming-products)
* [Customers knowledge of who they are participating against

 Greater transparency is required for customers to ensure they are aware of who they are participating against.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/customers-knowledge-of-who-they-are-participating-against)
* [**Guidance**  In-play or in-running betting

 In-play betting (or in-running or live betting as it is also known) is betting while the event is actually taking place.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/in-play-or-in-running-betting)
* [Occasional Use Notices (OUNs)

 Licensed gambling businesses can use Occassional Use Notices (OUNs) to provide betting facilities at sporting events such as point-to-point racecourses.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/occasional-use-notices-ouns)
* [Offering bets on eSports

 Betting on electronic sports or eSports should be treated no differently as betting on any other live event. Includes position paper on virtual currencies, eSports and social casino gaming.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/offering-bets-on-esports)
* [**Guidance**  Pool betting licensing arrangements

 Guidance on pool betting licensing arrangements from 13 July 2018 and information on operating models.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/pool-betting-licensing-arrangements)
* [Settling bets in accordance with published rules

 Information for operators on how to ensure bets are being settled in accordance with our published rules.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/settling-bets-in-accordance-with-published-rules)


 There are different types of licence that betting businesses may need to apply for, you may need more than of the following:

* [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
* [Personal Management Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
* [premises licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence)
* [Annex A for small-scale operators](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)

 We issue operating licences and personal licences; premises licences are issued by local licensing authorities.

###  Types of operating licence

 An operating licence allows you to provide gambling activities to customers in Great Britain.

* [**Guidance**  Operating licences

 An operating licence is required to provide most gambling facilities in Great Britain.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
###  Licence activities

 You can apply to us for a licence to provide betting in a premises (non-remote) or online (remote).

##  Activities

###  Fees

 The fees you need to pay depend on what you are applying for, and what your anticipated gross gambling yield (GGY) is.

* [**Guidance**  Fees you need to pay and when you should pay them

 Information on the fees for each licence, when these will need to be paid, and the payment methods you can use.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/fees-you-need-to-pay-and-when)
* [**Guidance**  Annual fees

 Information and guidance about annual fees for operating licence holders.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annual-fees)
* [**Guidance**  Paying fees

 Find out how to pay fees to the Gambling Commission.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)
###  Calculating your fees

 Our online fees calculator can help you with understanding the amounts of your application, first annual and annual fees.

* [**Service**  Operating licence fees calculator

 Calculate application, first annual and annual fees for operating licences.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/publicfeecalc "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Personal Management Licences

 Personal Management Licences allow people to work in certain roles in a gambling business.

 Some businesses do not require personal licences to be held. Instead, you need to submit an Annex A. These are required for businesses with three employees or less.

* [**Guidance**  Personal Management Licence (PML) guide

 Information on PMLs, including the specific roles that require one, the fees you will have to pay, and how you can apply.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
###  Annex A

 If your business qualifies as a  [small-scale operator](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  , you can submit an Annex A instead of applying for a Personal Management Licence.

* [**Guidance**  Annex A guide

 Information about Annex As and when they are required.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)
###  Premises licence

 You will need a premises licence to provide betting to players in a non-remote setting. You will need to apply to the licensing authority the premises is located, to get a premises licence.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for any premises licences.
>
>


* [All](#all)
* [Non-remote](#Non-remote)
* [Remote](#Remote)

##  All activities

##  Non-remote licence activities

##  Remote licence activities


* [Non-remote betting intermediary licence

 This licence allows you to bring two or more betting parties together so they can bet against each other, but you never have liability for their bets. An example of a non-remote betting intermediary is a tic-tac at a racecourse.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-betting-intermediary-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote general betting limited operating licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for betting on tracks (for example, horse race courses and greyhound tracks) as an on-course bookmaker.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-limited-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote general betting standard operating licence

 This licence allows you to provide betting facilities at betting shops and at tracks and or courses.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-standard-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote pool betting operating licence

 This licence allows you to operate a pool betting business (if you intend to operate an online pool betting business, you will need the remote pool betting operating licence).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-pool-betting-operating-licence)
* [Remote betting host real events licence

 This licence will allow you to provide facilities for betting on real events (but not virtual events) by means of remote communication (for example, a website).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-host-real-events-licence)
* [Remote betting host virtual events licence

 This licence will allow you to provide facilities for betting on virtual events (but not real events) by means of remote communication (for example, a website).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-host-virtual-events-licence)
* [Remote betting intermediary operating licence

 This licence allows you to bring two or more betting parties together online in circumstances where you do not have liability for their bets. A remote betting intermediary is also commonly known as a betting exchange.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-intermediary-operating-licence)
* [Remote betting intermediary trading rooms only licence

 This licence allows you to run a trading room from a premises licensed by your local licensing authority (betting premises or track premises licence).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-intermediary-trading-rooms-operating-licence)
* [Remote general betting limited licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for betting only over the telephone or by email (in circumstances where you are manually processing the bets).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-limited-licence)
* [Remote general betting standard real events licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for remote (online) gambling to consumers in Britain. It allows the provision of facilities for betting on real events (but not virtual events) by means of remote communication (for example, a website).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-standard-real-events-licence)
* [Remote general betting standard virtual events licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for remote (online) gambling to consumers in Britain.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-standard-virtual-events-licence)
* [Remote pool betting licence

 This licence allows you to run a pool betting business online (or through other means of remote communication).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-pool-betting-licence)


* [Non-remote betting intermediary licence

 This licence allows you to bring two or more betting parties together so they can bet against each other, but you never have liability for their bets. An example of a non-remote betting intermediary is a tic-tac at a racecourse.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-betting-intermediary-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote general betting limited operating licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for betting on tracks (for example, horse race courses and greyhound tracks) as an on-course bookmaker.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-limited-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote general betting standard operating licence

 This licence allows you to provide betting facilities at betting shops and at tracks and or courses.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-standard-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote pool betting operating licence

 This licence allows you to operate a pool betting business (if you intend to operate an online pool betting business, you will need the remote pool betting operating licence).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-pool-betting-operating-licence)


* [Remote betting host real events licence

 This licence will allow you to provide facilities for betting on real events (but not virtual events) by means of remote communication (for example, a website).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-host-real-events-licence)
* [Remote betting host virtual events licence

 This licence will allow you to provide facilities for betting on virtual events (but not real events) by means of remote communication (for example, a website).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-host-virtual-events-licence)
* [Remote betting intermediary operating licence

 This licence allows you to bring two or more betting parties together online in circumstances where you do not have liability for their bets. A remote betting intermediary is also commonly known as a betting exchange.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-intermediary-operating-licence)
* [Remote betting intermediary trading rooms only licence

 This licence allows you to run a trading room from a premises licensed by your local licensing authority (betting premises or track premises licence).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-intermediary-trading-rooms-operating-licence)
* [Remote general betting limited licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for betting only over the telephone or by email (in circumstances where you are manually processing the bets).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-limited-licence)
* [Remote general betting standard real events licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for remote (online) gambling to consumers in Britain. It allows the provision of facilities for betting on real events (but not virtual events) by means of remote communication (for example, a website).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-standard-real-events-licence)
* [Remote general betting standard virtual events licence

 This licence allows you to provide facilities for remote (online) gambling to consumers in Britain.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-standard-virtual-events-licence)
* [Remote pool betting licence

 This licence allows you to run a pool betting business online (or through other means of remote communication).

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-pool-betting-licence)


 Gambling in Great Britain and the Gambling Commission's duties and responsibilities are detailed in the Gambling Act 2005.

 The following legislation and policies are also applicable to operating licence holders.

* [Gambling Act 2005

 Gambling Act 2005 (link opens in new window)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents "Link opens in a new tab")

###  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all operating and personal licence holders must follow.

* [**Guidance**  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all licensees must follow when running a gambling business or working in the industry.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/lccp)
###  Policies and guidance

 The following guidance and policies are also relevant for all licensees.

* [**Policy**  Licensing, compliance and enforcement under the Gambling Act 2005

 The Commission’s approach to risk underpins its licensing, compliance and enforcement functions.](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for licensing and regulation

 The Commission's statement of principles for licensing and regulation.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-licensing-and-regulation)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for determining financial penalties

 The Commission's statement of principles for determining financial penalties.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-determining-financial-penalties)
* [**Guidance**  Other policies, advice and guidance notes

 We are gradually removing PDF's from our website. Find published advice notes and guidance in PDF's we've not yet converted.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/all-policies-advice-and-guidance-notes)
* [**Guidance**  Anti-money laundering legislation

 Anti-money laundering legislation and regulatory codes of practice operators must comply with.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/anti-money-laundering-legislation)


 You can apply online for a licence from us to provide betting activities.

 A betting application can take up to x months to process depending on the complexity of your business.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for a premises licence from the local licensing authority.
>
>

###  Information you'll need for your application

 We will ask you to provide information about you and your business as part of your licence application.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to send us when you apply for an operating licence

 Find out which documents you will need when applying for an operating licence for your gambling business.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-send-us-when-you-apply-for-an-operating-licence)
###  Apply online

 You can use our online service to apply for an operating licence.

 If you have not used the service before, you'll need an email address only you can access to be able to create an account.

>  Make sure you include all the information we ask for when you submit your application. If your application is rejected because something is missing, we will not refund your application fee.
>
>

* [**Service**  Apply for a licence to operate a gambling business

 Use this service if you want to apply for a licence to run a gambling business.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/ApplicationHub/Account/Login "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Assessing your application

###  If your application is rejected

 We will send you a letter explaining which documents are missing and you'll need to reapply online.

 You must provide the missing documents, as well as the documents you included originally, and you will need to pay the application fee again.

* [**Guidance**  How we assess operating licence applications

 Find out what we consider when assessing an operating licence application.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/how-we-assess-operating-licence-applications)
###  Your licence

 If we grant you a licence to run a gambling business, you will be able to download a copy of your licence from eServices.

 You must make your licence available for inspection by request from Gambling Commission staff, licensing authority staff or other official bodies such as the police or fire service.

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")


 An important part of the Gambling Commission’s work is to ensure that licence holders are compliant. Compliance requires licence holders to understand and act in accordance with:

* the  [Gambling Act 2005](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)
* regulations (statutory instruments) made under the Gambling Act 2005
* the  [Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP)](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp)
* any  [technical standards](#technial-standards)  that apply to operating licences.

 Compliance activity is based on risk and the risk that each licensed activity poses to the Gambling Commission’s licensing objectives.

 The three licensing objectives are:

* keeping crime out of gambling
* ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly
* protecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

###  Compliance

 Guidance and information for running a compliant gambling business. Including information on how we carry out assessments, your responsibilities under the LCCP and other gambling-related legislation.

* [**Hub**  Compliance

 How we do compliance assessments and important compliance information.](/licensees-and-businesses/compliance)
###  What you need to tell us

 You are required to tell us about certain things that happen in your business, these are dependent on the licences and activities you hold.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to tell us when you hold an operating licence

 This guidance summarises all of the types of data and information that you are required to tell us when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-an-operating-licence)
* [**Guidance**  Key events for operators

 These guides will inform you of the key events you must tell us about when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)
* [**Guidance**  Guidance to operators for age verification test purchasing (non-remote)

 This guidance explains what data we need from you about age verification test purchasing when you hold a non-remote operating licence.](/guidance/guidance-to-operators-for-age-verification-test-purchasing-non-remote)
* [**Guidance**  Regulatory returns guidance

 Guidance for information collected in the Regulatory Returns service by licensing sector.](/guidance/regulatory-returns-guidance)
* [**Guidance**  Assurance statements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements if you are required to send us an assurance statement.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/assurance-statements)
* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine and remote games information requirements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements for games test, games annual audit and security audit reports.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-and-remote-games-information-requirements)
###  Public Register

 We provide details of all businesses and individuals we licence on our  [Public Register](/public-register)  service.

 When you are issued a licence, we will display the details of your licence on the register.

 This includes:

* your head office address
* details of the activities you are licensed for and from when
* domain and trading names you've told us about, and
* details of any regulatory action that has been carried out.

* [**Service**  Public Register of licensees, premises and regulatory actions

 The register lets you search and download information about licensed businesses, individuals and premises. You can also find information about regulatory action we have taken against licensees.](/public-register "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Display of licensed status

 If you hold a remote licence, the gambling websites and apps you provide must show details about your licence and link to your public register licence information.

>  This is a condition of your licence under  [LCCP Condition 8 - Display of licensed status](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/1/8)  .
>
>

###  Making changes to your licence

 You can make most changes to your licence online, using eServices.

 You can:

* add or remove licence activities
* change the activity fee category up or down
* add or remove management or key people in the business
* add or remove trading names
* add or remove domain names for websites where you provide gambling.

>  Some of these  [changes require you to pay a fee](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  .
>
>

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Surrendering your licence

 If you no longer need your licence, you can surrender it.

* [**Guidance**  Surrender your operating licence

 Find out how to surrender your operating licence partially or in full.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/surrender-your-operating-licence)


Betting: advice for remote, non-remote and betting intermediaries

 This advice note explains the approach adopted by the Gambling Commission (the Commission) when deciding what operating licence(s) an operator needs to authorise its provision of facilities for betting and in determining whether the operator is complying with the requirements of those licences.

 It focuses on the questions that arise regarding the use of self-service betting terminals and other intermediate arrangements in providing gambling facilities at high street venues.

 Any section references in the footnotes are to sections of the  [Gambling Act 2005 (the Act) (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents )  .

##  In brief the Commission’s view is that:

##  Background to the advice

##  Definitions and key concepts

##  Remote gambling

##  Betting

##  Pool betting

##  Betting intermediary:

##  Remote operating licence

##  Is the betting remote or non-remote gambling?

##  Is the operator offering betting or acting as a betting intermediary?

##  Applying the previous principles to some examples of the types of arrangements the Commission has encountered

##  Footnotes

---

 Last updated: 6 May 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


* an operator which is a party to its customers’ betting contracts needs a general betting standard operating licence
* an operator providing facilities for gambling from key equipment in Great Britain or to consumers in Britain which facilitates its customers betting with a third party, either directly or through another betting intermediary, needs a betting intermediary licence
* in either case, those licences will need to be remote licences if the customer bets using any form of remote communication or if the operator’s activity is carried on by means of remote communication, whether or not the customer is on the operator’s premises  [1](#ref-1)  [2](#ref-2)
* in circumstances where the transaction is conducted from an operator’s premises, a betting premises licence will be needed and cannot be obtained without a betting operating licence which can either be remote or non-remote
* gaming machines can only be provided on licensed betting premises where the operator holds a non-remote general betting (standard) licence and is providing non-remote betting facilities as its primary gambling activity  [3](#ref-3)
* where an operator lays off or hedges its betting liabilities by use of a remote platform (whether betting operator or exchange) and does not already hold a remote betting licence, the necessary remote general betting (standard) (remote platform) licence is available with its non-remote licence at no additional cost.


 The Commission is frequently faced with questions about whether a particular type of offering involves acting as a betting intermediary or is the provision of facilities for betting (in the sense of making or accepting bets or providing other facilities for doing so which are not the services of a betting intermediary) and/or whether the gambling in question is remote gambling or non-remote gambling. The answer to those questions depends upon the interpretation of the definitions in the Act.  The interpretation of the Act is ultimately a matter for the courts. Nevertheless, the Commission hopes that it will be helpful to operators for it to set out how it approaches this issue. This advice note sets out the framework which the Commission applies when deciding whether it considers that a particular operator is offering betting or is acting as a betting intermediary and whether gambling is remote gambling or non-remote gambling.

 The Commission may update this advice note from time to time to reflect developments in the market and any legal precedents.


 Remote gambling is defined in section 4 of the Act as:

 **(1)**  In this Act “remote gambling” means gambling in which persons participate by the use of remote communication.

 **(2)**  In this Act “remote communication” means communication using:

* the internet
* telephone
* television
* radio
* any other kind of electronic or other technology for facilitating communication.

 The previous list encompasses a variety of modern means of communication such as interactive television and mobile telephony, and is intended to ensure that the definition keeps pace with future developments in this field.

 However, in order to ensure clarity as well as flexibility for the regulation of gambling, the Secretary of State may specify in regulations that a specified system or method of communication is, or is not, to be treated as a form of remote communication for the purpose of the definition.


 Betting is defined in section 9 of the Act as:

 Betting: general
 **(1)**  In this Act 'betting' means making or accepting a bet on:

* the outcome of a race, competition or other event or process
* the likelihood of anything occurring or not occurring
* whether anything is or is not true.

 **(2)**  A transaction that relates to the outcome of a race, competition or other event or process may be a bet within the meaning of subsection  **(1)**  despite the facts that:

* the race, competition, event or process has already occurred or been completed
* one party to the transaction knows the outcome.

 **(3)**  A transaction that relates to the likelihood of anything occurring or not occurring may be a bet within the meaning of subsection  **(1)**  despite the facts that:

* the thing has already occurred or failed to occur
* one party to the transaction knows that the thing has already occurred or failed to occur.

 The Act does not provide a definition of the term ‘bet’, other than to state that, except where the context otherwise requires, ‘a reference to accepting a bet includes a reference to negotiating a bet’  [4](#ref-4)  .

 The dictionary definition of a ‘bet’ is:

* an agreement between two parties that a sum of money or other stake will be paid by the losing party to the party who correctly predicts the outcome of an event.


 Pool betting is defined in section 12 of the Act as:

 **(1)**  For the purposes of this Act betting is pool betting if made on terms that all or part of winnings:

* shall be determined by reference to the aggregate of stakes paid or agreed to be paid by the persons betting
* shall be divided among the winners
* shall or may be something other than money.

 **(2)**  For the purposes of this Act pool betting is horse-race pool betting if it relates to horseracing in Great Britain.  [5](#ref-5)


 Betting intermediary is defined in section 13 of the Act as:

 **(1)**  In this Act 'betting intermediary' means a person who provides a service designed to facilitate the making or acceptance of bets between others.

 **(2)**  For the purposes of this Act acting as a betting intermediary is providing facilities for betting.

 A betting intermediary is a person who provides a service to enable others to make or accept bets. Such a person does not, himself, partake in the bet. The definition includes betting exchanges.

>  It is important to note that there is a separate class of operating licence for betting intermediaries, and that the entitlement to make gaming machines available for use does not attach to such licences.
>
>

 The Commission has adopted a common sense approach to the question of what constitutes ‘facilitating’ the making or acceptance of bets between others. For example, the Commission does not consider that merely placing advertisements about where to place bets or providing tips in a newspaper is sufficient to fall within the definition. In contrast, the offer of tipster services, whereby the tipster places bets on behalf of third parties in return for payment or commission would, in the Commission’s view, fall within the definition in  [section 13 of the Act (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/13)  .

 Likewise, making dedicated rooms available at race tracks, for example by equipping them with computer terminals and live racing feeds and marketing them as being available for people to use for betting would be likely, in the Commission’s view, to amount to facilitating the making or accepting of bets between others.


 Section 67 of the Act defines the term ‘remote operating licence’ as:

 **(1)**  An operating licence is a 'remote operating licence' if it authorises activity to be carried on:

* in respect of remote gambling
* by means of remote communication.

 **(2)**  A remote operating licence may not also authorise activity which is neither:

* in respect of remote gambling
* carried on by means of remote communication.

 **(3)**  An operating licence must state whether it is a remote operating licence or not.

##  It is important to note that a remote operating licence covers two distinct situations:

 'In respect of’ covers the situation where the player uses remote communication to participate in the gambling, whether or not the player and the operator are in different physical locations; for example use of the telephone to place a bet, the use of self-service betting terminals (SSBTs) to place a bet in a betting shop, or a player’s use of an electronic bingo terminal to play bingo in a bingo premises  [6](#ref-6)  .

 ‘By means of’ covers the situation where the operator uses remote communication to provide facilities for gambling or to carry out other licensed activities; for example the operator of the National Bingo Game uses remote communication to technically deliver the game although the game itself is not remote gambling because the players do not themselves use remote communication. Another example is a gaming machine supplier who supplies machine software by email.

##  Licence conditions

##  Statutory conditions

##  General conditions imposed by the Commission

##  Contract


It is important to note that a remote operating licence covers two distinct situations:

* where the licensed activity is carried on ‘in respect of’ remote gambling
* where the licensed activity is carried on ‘by means of’ remote communication.