Gambling licence information, guidance and advice for businesses and individuals.

Information for existing or prospective gambling businesses including what types of licence you may need, how much they cost and the licence conditions and codes of practice that apply to your licence.


* [Regulatory returns guidance](/guidance/regulatory-returns-guidance)  Guidance
* [Testing strategy for compliance with remote gambling and software technical standards](/strategy/testing-strategy-for-compliance-with-remote-gambling-and-software-technical)  Strategy
* [Online games design and reverse withdrawals](/consultation-response/online-games-design-and-reverse-withdrawals)  Consultation response
* [Remote gambling and software technical standards (RTS)](/standards/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)  Standards
* [National Strategic Assessment 2020](/strategy/national-strategic-assessment-2020)  Strategy
* [Raising Standards for consumers - Compliance and Enforcement report 2019 to 2020](/report/raising-standards-for-consumers-compliance-and-enforcement-report-2019-20)  Report
* [LCCP Information requirements](/guidance/lccp-Information-requirements)  Guidance
* [High Value Customers: Industry guidance](/guidance/high-value-customers-industry-guidance)  Guidance
* [Changes to the licence conditions and codes of practice on High Value Customers](/consultation-response/changes-to-the-licence-conditions-and-codes-of-practice-on-high-value-customers)  Consultation response
* [Other policies, advice and guidance notes](/licensees-and-businesses/page/all-policies-advice-and-guidance-notes)


Search by name or account number  Search the gambling business register  You can also  [search our public register](/public-and-players/public-register)  for licensed individuals and premises.


 Information about the type of licences and permits we issue.

* [Do I need a licence?

 There are three types of licence that a business may need. Find out more about which licence your business may require.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/do-i-need-a-licence)
* [Operating licences

 An operating licence is required to provide most gambling facilities in Great Britain.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
* [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)
* [Personal Functional Licence (PFL) guide

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

 Information about Annex As and when they are required.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)
* [Single machine permits

 Information on single machine permits, when they are intended to be used, and how you can apply.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/single-machine-permits)
* [Premises licence

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

 Information on maintaining your personal licence, including details on when maintenance is due and the fees applicable.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/personal-licence-maintenance)


 Information about the activities we licence, the fees you need to pay and when.

* [Licence activities

 Information, requirements and fees for all activities we issue licences for.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/licence-activities)
* [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)
* [Annual fees

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


 Guidance and information for complying with licence conditions and regulations for running a gambling business.

 [Visit the compliance hub  about new compliance hub](/licensees-and-businesses/compliance)


 Find out how much it will cost to apply for a licence and ongoing annual fees.

 [Calculate fees  about calculate your licence fees](/service/operating-licence-fees-calculator)


What you need to tell us when you apply for a licence

 Guidance about the information we'll ask for when applying for a licence.

 [View guidance  about what you need to tell us when you apply for a licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-send-us-when-you-apply-for-an-operating-licence)


 Guidance for small businesses and sole traders running a gambling business.

 [View guidance  about small businesses and sole traders](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)


 We have grouped all guidance, policies and information by sector to make it easier to understand what we expect from licensees when they are applying for, or hold, a Gambling Commission licence.

* [Arcades

 Guidance for licensed and unlicensed Family Entertainment Centres and Adult Gaming Centres.](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/arcades)
* [Betting

 Information for betting in shops, tracks, racecourses and pools, including real and virtual betting.](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/betting)
* [Bingo

 Information on bingo and details of when you need a licence to run a bingo game.](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/bingo)
* [Casino

 Information for casinos under the 1968 and 2005 Acts.](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/casino)
* [Gaming machines and software

 Policies for gaming machines and gambling software including technical standards, testing strategies and test houses.](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/gaming-machines-and-software)
* [Lotteries

 Information for running lotteries and raffles including guidance for External Lottery Managers (ELMs).](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/lotteries)
* [Remote

 Guidance and technical standards for businesses providing gambling online, through apps or via TV or other devices.](/licensees-and-businesses/sectors/sector/remote)


* [Social responsibility](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/social-responsibility)
* [Assessment principles of multi-operator self-exclusion schemes (MOSES)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/multi-operator-self-exclusion-schemes-moses-evaluation-and-impact-assessment)
* [Non-remote multi-operator self-exclusion](/licensees-and-businesses/page/non-remote-multi-operator-self-exclusion)
* [Guidance on self-exclusion scheme provider information reporting](/licensees-and-businesses/page/guidance-on-self-exclusion-scheme-provider-information-reporting)


* [The importance of interacting with customers](/licensees-and-businesses/page/the-importance-of-interacting-with-customers)
* [Preventing underage gambling](/licensees-and-businesses/page/prevent-underage-gambling)


Marketing, advertising and terms and conditions

* [Advertising and marketing rules and regulations](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/advertising-marketing-rules-and-regulations)
* [Ensuring self-excluded customers do not receive marketing materials](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/ensuring-self-excluded-customers-do-not-receive-your-marketing-materials)
* [Fair and transparent terms and practices](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/fair-and-transparent-terms-and-practices)


* [Emerging money laundering and terrorist financing risks](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/emerging-anti-money-laundering-risks)
* [Anti-money laundering legislation](/licensees-and-businesses/page/anti-money-laundering-legislation)
* [The money laundering and terrorist financing risks within the British gambling industry](/guidance/The-money-laundering-and-terrorist-financing-risks-within-the-British-gambling-industry)


* [Anti-money laundering responsibilities for casino businesses](/licensees-and-businesses/page/remote-and-non-remote-casinos-aml-responsibilities)
* [The Economic Crime Levy](/guidance/the-economic-crime-levy)
* [Anti-money laundering responsibilities for gambling businesses](/licensees-and-businesses/page/for-all-other-gambling-businesses-aml-responsibilities)
* [Digital technologies and anti-money laundering](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/digital-technologies-and-aml)


* [Sign up to e-bulletin for regular updates](/e-bulletin)
* [Anti-money laundering bodies and organisations](/licensees-and-businesses/page/list-of-bodies-and-organisations)
* [Our anti-money laundering accreditation](/licensees-and-businesses/page/aml-accreditations)


 Watch our videos to learn about how to submit better quality Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs).

 [Watch the videos](/licensees-and-businesses/page/video-how-to-submit-better-quality-suspicious-activity-reports)


 The Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) is a very important part of running your business and we recommend you subscribe to our e-bulletin so we can notify you of any changes.

##  View and search the LCCP online

 We will consult widely on any changes so come back to this page frequently to check for the most up to date information.

 We think that the most effective regulatory approach is to focus on the outcomes to be achieved.

 In some areas we specify particular rules or processes, but where possible, we aim to allow you to take your own approach to meet our requirements.

 The LCCP is not static, we make amendments or additions to take account of developments in the industry or emerging evidence on the most effective means of promoting socially responsible gambling.

##  Print or download a copy of the LCCP

##  Print or download sector specific extracts of the LCCP

##  Keep updated with e-bulletin


 You can now view the full LCCP online, navigate through sections and find related information the conditions and codes of practice.

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 [View the LCCP online](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)


 You can download the full LCCP as a HTML file or as a PDF. You can also print it out in full.

 [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document


Print or download sector specific extracts of the LCCP

 You can download the extract as a HTML file or as a PDF. You can also print it out in full.

 [Arcades extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/arcades)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document

 [Betting extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/betting)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document

 [Bingo extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/bingo)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document

 [Casino extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/casino)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document

 [Gaming machines and gambling software extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/machines)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document

 [Lotteries extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/lotteries)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document

 [Personal licences extract](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/print/personal)

 Version effective from 12 September 2022

 HTML Document


 Our newsletter, e-bulletin, is sent out every fortnight and includes updates and details of consultations and changes to the LCCP.

 [Sign up to the newsletter](/e-bulletin)  .

 [Next page
 Online LCCP](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)


Other policies, advice and guidance notes

We are gradually removing PDF's from our website and replacing them with accessible webpages, this makes it easier to find specific content on our website. You can still link directly to content, print or download pages like a PDF.


Policies and advice notes we've converted to new guidance pages

* [High Value Customers: Industry guidance](/guidance/high-value-customers-industry-guidance)
* [LCCP Information requirements](/guidance/lccp-Information-requirements)
* [Licensing, compliance and enforcement under the Gambling Act 2005](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005)
* [Licensing decisions: Procedures and guidance for licensing hearings](/guidance/licensing-decisions-procedures-and-guidance-for-licensing-hearings)
* [Regulatory decisions: Procedures and guidance for regulatory hearings](/guidance/regulatory-decisions-procedures-and-guidance-for-regulatory-hearings)
* [Remote gambling and software technical standards](/standards/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)
* [Statement of principles for licensing and regulation](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-licensing-and-regulation)
* [Testing strategy for compliance with remote gambling and software technical standards](/strategy/testing-strategy-for-compliance-with-remote-gambling-and-software-technical)


Policies and advice notes we've not yet converted from PDF

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

* [Indicative sanctions guidance - June 2017 (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/7jKHfXGVSN8pHprI8VmLO0/abfe7f88d0084118d1f740eaf47bc34d/Indicative-sanctions-guidance-June-2017__2_.pdf)
* [Prize competitions and free draws: The requirements of the Gambling Act 2005 - December 2009 (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/3pj85vOPWgkchLNLVUs9PV/92c9622bea378560e4ecb375e3f94364/Prize-competitions-and-free-draws-the-requirements-of-the-gambling-act-2005.pdf)
* [Review of online gambling - March 2018 (PDF)](https://assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/1IqnfQB1tKl68evyAwEZfi/5c278c956f0ab2b88c075e5d1a742fa8/Online-review-March-2018.pdf)

---

 Last updated: 22 November 2022

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


There are three types of licence that business owners may need, and in certain situations, your business may need all three.


* an  [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)  (from us)
* a  [Personal Management Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  (from us)
* a  [Personal Functional Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-functional-licence)  (from us)
* a  [premises licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence)  (from your local licensing authority).

>  If you provide facilities for remote gambling (online or through other means), and advertise to consumers in Britain, you will need a licence from the Gambling Commission.
>
>

 Local licensing authorities also provide lottery registrations and gambling permits for pubs, clubs and other establishments for low-level gambling.

---

 Last updated: 23 December 2022

 Show updates to this content  Formatting changes


If you provide facilities for remote gambling (online or through other means), and advertise to consumers in Great Britain, you will need a licence from the Gambling Commission.


 There are 3 types of operating licence:

* Non-remote
* Remote
* Ancillary.

 You may need one or a combination of these licences to provide gambling facilities to consumers in Great Britain.

 [View the activities we licence and the fees you'll need to pay](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/licence-activities)  .

##  How to apply for an operating licence

##  How we assess operating licence applications

##  Assessing suitability

##  What we assess

##  Appeal against a decision made about your licence or application

---

 Last updated: 1 November 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


 You can apply for an operating licence using the apply for an operating licence service.

 You will need to pay a fee to submit your application. You can read about the  [fees you need to pay and when](/licensees-and-businesses/page/fees-you-need-to-pay-and-when)  and  [how to pay your fees](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)  .

##  Apply online


 Apply for an operating licence online.

 [Start](/service/apply-for-an-operating-licence)


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.


Appeal against a decision made about your licence or application

 If we make a decision about your licence or an application for a licence, we will let you know the reasons why and the steps you can take to appeal if you are unhappy with our decision.

 You can appeal against a decision about your gambling licence if:

* your application for a licence is turned down
* your licence is suspended or revoked
* you receive a fine or warning
* there are changes to your licence conditions.

 You normally have to  [pay a fee to appeal (opens in a new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/gambling-licence-decisions-appeal-to-a-tribunal#fee)  . This fee will be refunded if you win your case.

 If we have given you a final decision and you are not satisfied with it, you can  [appeal to the HM Courts & Tribunals Service (opens in a new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/gambling-licence-decisions-appeal-to-a-tribunal)  , which is an independent body.


* [Operating licences](#)
* [How to apply for an operating licence](#how-to-apply-for-an-operating-licence)
* [How we assess operating licence applications](#how-we-assess-operating-licence-applications)
* [Appeal against a decision made about your licence or application](#appeal-against-a-decision-made-about-your-licence-or-application)

 [Print this guide](#)


>  It can take up to 6 weeks to process a PML if there are no issues with the application.
>
>

 You must hold a PML if you are responsible for the following activities at licensed gambling operators:

* overall strategy and delivery of gambling operations
* financial planning, control and budgeting
* marketing and commercial development
* regulatory compliance
* gambling-related information technology (IT) provision and security
* management of licensed activity for a particular area in Great Britain where you have five or more sets of premises for which you hold a premises licence
* management of a single set of bingo and/or casino licensed premises.

 You will only ever need to hold one PML, regardless of however many management activities you carry out.

 You must be 18 or over to apply for a personal licence.

>  To renew or manage a personal licence you already have, use the  [Manage and maintain your personal licence service](/service/manage-and-maintain-your-personal-licence)  . If you need to change the type of personal licence you have, read our guidance on  [making changes to your personal licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/making-changes-to-your-personal-licence)  .
>
>

##  Apply for a Personal Management Licence or update your application

##  Nominated officers in casino businesses


Apply for a Personal Management Licence or update your application

[Start now](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)


 An appointed  [nominated officer for Anti-Money Laundering](/guidance/the-prevention-of-money-laundering-and-combating-the-financing-of-terrorism/prevention-of-ml-and-combating-the-financing-of-terrorism-part-5-1-nominated)  is not required to hold a PML, but we consider it good practice.

##  When to apply

##  Application costs

##  What information you need when applying

##  Criminal record checks

##  Why we do criminality checks

##  Uploading your documents

##  If you get your licence

##  If your application is refused

---

 Last updated: 26 April 2023

 Show updates to this content  25 April 2023 - Added eDBS consent information.

 8 March 2023 - Following an audit corrected link formatting issues only.


 You should apply for PMLs for people in qualifying management positions within your business at the same time as applying for your  [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)  .

 You may not need a PML if your business is considered a  [Small Scale Operator](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  .

 Until we issue your PML, you should not carry out the responsibilities that the PML allows you to do, for example, making strategic and operational decisions.


 It costs £370 to apply for a licence, the fee must be paid by credit or debit card online. We are unable to accept payments made by American Express or Visa Electron.

 This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful or you choose to withdraw from the application process.


 To apply for a licence you'll need:

* an email address to start or continue your application
* all your addresses for the last 5 years and the dates you lived there
* a credit or debit card to pay the application fee
* proof of your identity
* certified copies of your overseas police report translated into English, if you were born abroad or have lived outside the UK in the last 5 years (not required if you left your country of birth as a child)
* certified overseas credit report or letter of good standing from your overseas bank translated into English, if you were born abroad or have lived outside the UK in the last 5 years (not required if you left your country of birth as a child)
* any gambling licences you have which were not issued in the UK.


 As part of the application process we'll need to ask if you've received any criminal convictions, warnings or reprimands.

 It is important that you declare any offences. We undertake checks, including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, to confirm the accuracy of your declarations.


 We do this to assess if a person is suitable to hold a personal licence or Annex A. We are also required to carry out these checks by law, under  [Part 5 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/69)  .

 Not all convictions will prevent you from getting a licence or Annex A. When considering the suitability of someone to hold a personal licence or Annex A, we review details of the offence on a case by case basis.

 Relevant offences which may result in a licence application being refused, or a licence to be revoked, are listed under  [Schedule 7 of the Gambling Act (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/schedule/7)  .

##  Do not send us any documents unless we ask for them

##  Types of criminality checks


Do not send us any documents unless we ask for them

You may have a certificate from a previous DBS or Disclosure Scotland by an employer. Do  **not**  send us these certificates, even if the check was done recently. We will always request new checks as part of the application process.


 During the application process, we will let you know what checks will be completed and if we need anything further from you.

###  If you lived or worked in England or Wales

 We will carry out a  [Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/basic-dbs-checks-guidance)  , which is done electronically. We will ask you some questions in the application to enable us to carry out this check.

 If you declare any criminal history in your application, we reserve the right to carry out a Standard DBS check, instead of a Basic DBS check. You will be notified if we intend to do this. We cannot do this Standard check electronically, instead, we'll send you a form which you'll need to complete, sign, and return to us.

 Electronic checks can take 1 to 7 days to complete. Standard checks can take up to 3 weeks.

 DBS will issue a certificate which details any relevant convictions, warnings or offences against you.

 Once you get your certificate, we may ask you to send this to us. Do  **not**  send us your certificate unless we ask for it. We will tell you how and where to send it.

###  Electronic Disclosure and Barring Service (eDBS) checks

 To carry out electronic DBS (eDBS) checks, we must have your consent.

####  If consent is given to share the result of the eDBS check

 If you consent to sharing the result of the eDBS, you can progress the application online and when submitted, the application will be processed in the via the automated service.

####  If you do not give consent to share the result of the eDBS check

 If you do not consent to sharing the eDBS result with us, we cannot progress the application using the automated service.

 Instead, you must:

1. Use our online form to  [contact us about your application for a licence](/forms/contact-centre/applicants)  . Select the ‘I want to discuss other ways to submit my application for a licence’ option. A member of our Licensing team will contact you with an application form for you to complete.
2. If you are applying for a personal licence, you must pay for your application using GOV.UK Pay. The Licensing team will send you a payment link.
3. Pay for your own  [basic DBS check (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/request-copy-criminal-record)  .
4. Send us your DBS certificate, completed application form and any other supporting evidence required for the application. Submit these by email to  [Licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk](mailto:Licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk)  .

 Any information provided via the online services will be deleted in line with the  [Commission’s Privacy policy](/privacy-policy)  .

 Once we receive all of your documentation and payment, your application will be processed manually by a Licensing caseworker. The caseworker will provide an estimate on how long the application is likely to take to be determined.

 When the application has been processed and determined, you will receive an email notification from us as confirmation.

 As part of our compliance processes, the Commission will be asked to provide evidence that the required consent has been freely obtained.

 Further information is available in the  [DBS Consent policy (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/consent-privacy-policy/consent-policy)  .

###  If you were born or have lived in Scotland

 We will request a  [Disclosure Scotland check (opens in new tab)](https://www.mygov.scot/disclosure-types/)

 We will send you a form which you need to complete, sign and return to us.

 Disclosure Scotland checks can take up to 3 weeks.

 Disclosure Scotland will issue a certificate which details any relevant convictions, warning or offences against you.

 Once you get your certificate, we require you to send this to us and we will tell you how and where to send it.

###  If you were born outside of England, Wales or Scotland or lived overseas in the last 5 years

 We will ask you to obtain certified copies of your overseas police report from your local police force translated into English. (This is not required if you left your country of birth as a child.)

>  This is at your own cost and is not covered by the application fee. We will not pay any fees for obtaining or translating these documents.
>
>

 These documents need to be uploaded as part of your application. We may refuse your application if they are not provided, as your application is incomplete.

 You can find more information about  [certifying a document on GOV.UK (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/certifying-a-document)  .


 We will let you know if you need to send us any additional documents as part of your application.

 If we ask for any additional information or supporting documents, you can submit these online. Upload your documents using the  [Apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  .

 Do not send documents to us by post unless we have specifically stated to do so.


 You will not receive a physical copy of your licence from us but you can download a copy through our  [Manage and maintain your personal licence service](/service/manage-and-maintain-your-personal-licence)  .

 You need to be able to produce your licence on demand within a specified period of time if an enforcement officer or relevant person of authority asks to see it. Your licence will last indefinitely unless:

* it is revoked
* it is suspended
* you choose to surrender it
* it lapses due to bankruptcy
* it is forfeited, for example if a court orders it when you are convicted of a relevant offence.

 **However, you will need to renew your personal licence every 5 years.**

>  For information on what happens after you have your licence, including how to renew, manage or surrender your licence, read our  [Managing your personal licence guide](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/managing-your-personal-licence)  .
>
>


 If we refuse your application we'll let you know the reasons why and the steps you can take to appeal if you are unhappy with our decision.

 If we have given you a final decision and you are not satisfied with it, you can  [appeal to an independent tribunal (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-courts-and-tribunals-service)  within 28 days of receiving our refusal letter.


* [Personal Management Licence (PML) guide](#)
* [When to apply](#when-to-apply)
* [Application costs](#how-much-it-costs)
* [What information you need when applying](#what-you-need-to-apply)
* [Criminal record checks](#criminal-record-checks-PFL)
* [Uploading your documents](#submitting-documents)
* [If you get your licence](#when-you-get-your-licence)
* [If your application is refused](#if-your-application-is-rejected)

 [Print this guide](#)


>  It can take up to 6 weeks to process a Personal Functional Licence if there are no issues with the application.
>
>

 You need a PFL before you start work as:

* a dealer or croupier
* a cashier
* an inspector
* a pit boss or gaming supervisor
* security staff or monitoring surveillance related to gambling activities.

 You must be 18 or over to apply for a licence.

 When you apply for a licence it is your responsibility to follow the relevant rules and regulations, it is not the responsibility of your employer.

>  To renew or manage a personal licence you already have, use the  [Manage and maintain your personal licence service](/service/manage-and-maintain-your-personal-licence)  . If you need to change the type of personal licence you have, read our guidance on  [making changes to your personal licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/making-changes-to-your-personal-licence)  .
>
>

##  Apply for a Personal Functional Licence or update your application

##  Application costs

##  Who can make the payment

##  When to pay

##  What information you need when applying

##  Criminal record checks

##  Why we do criminality checks

##  Uploading your documents

##  If you get your licence

##  If your application is refused

---

 Last updated: 26 April 2023

 Show updates to this content  25 April 2023 - Added eDBS consent information.

 11 January 2023 - Following user feedback and an audit, we have edited this page for consistency. No substantive changes to requirements have been made.


Apply for a Personal Functional Licence or update your application


 It costs £185 to apply for a licence, the fee must be paid by credit or debit card online. We are unable to accept payments made by American Express or Visa Electrion.

 This fee is non-refundable, this includes if your application is unsuccessful or you choose to withdraw from the application process.


 You must pay the fee yourself, using your own credit or debit card.

 The card you use must be:

* in your name
* registered at your home address.


You'll need to pay the fee before you submit your application.


 To apply for a licence you'll need:

* an email address to start or continue your application
* all your addresses for the last 5 years and the dates you lived there
* a credit or debit card to pay the application fee
* proof of your identity
* certified copies of your overseas police report translated into English, if you were born abroad or have lived outside the UK in the last 5 years (not required if you left your country of birth as a child)
* certified overseas credit report or letter of good standing from your overseas bank translated into English, if you were born abroad or have lived outside the UK in the last 5 years (not required if you left your country of birth as a child).


* [Personal Functional Licence (PFL) guide](#)
* [Application costs](#how-much-youll-pay)
* [What information you need when applying](#what-youll-need-to-apply)
* [Criminal record checks](#criminal-record-checks-PFL)
* [Uploading your documents](#submitting-documents)
* [If you get your licence](#when-you-get-your-licence)
* [If your application is refused](#if-your-application-is-rejected)

 [Print this guide](#)


 An Annex A is required to be submitted instead of a  [Personal Management Licence (PML)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  by the following people:

* those in a management position in a  [Small Scale Operator](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  (  [Schedule X](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/adding-or-removing-a-named-person-to-your-licence-schedule-x)  )
* a representative of an operator taking bets on their behalf at tracks (  [Schedule Y](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/adding-or-removing-a-representative-from-your-operating-licence-schedule-y)  )
* individuals who are, or are expected to become, a holder of 10 percent or more shares in a licensed operator.

 You can submit an Annex A online using the  [Apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  .

##  New operating licence applicants

##  Existing operating licence holders

##  Criminal record checks

##  Why we do criminality checks

##  Files


When you apply for a new operating licence, you must tell us about people who will be in qualifying management positions. We will check if you qualify as an SSO in your application. If you do not qualify you will be prompted to change the people to require PMLs.


 If you hold an operating licence and qualify as an SSO and need to add additional people in a qualifying management position, and you remain below the  **three or fewer**  threshold, the additional people will need to apply for an Annex A.

 You will need to start a licence variation application to do this. There are different options for doing this, depending on whether other changes are being made to your licence activities.

###  Adding or removing people

 If you are only adding or removing people, you will need to complete the variation application form and  [pay the variation fee](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/changes-that-cannot-be-made-online)  .

 You cannot do this online. You'll need to submit an application using the  [variation application form](#LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L)  .

###  Adding or removing people and changing what you are licensed for

 You can  [submit your licence variation online using eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  .

###  If you go over three people in qualifying positions

 If you have more than three people in qualifying management positions, each person must then apply for a PML and pay a fee.

 PML applications can be submitted by using the  [Apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  .


 As part of the application process we'll need to ask if you've received any criminal convictions, warnings or reprimands.

 It is important that you declare any offences. We undertake checks, including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, to confirm the accuracy of your declarations.


 We do this to assess if a person is suitable to hold a personal licence or Annex A. We are also required to carry out these checks by law, under  [Part 5 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/69)  .

 Not all convictions will prevent you from getting a licence or Annex A. When considering the suitability of someone to hold a personal licence or Annex A, we review details of the offence on a case by case basis.

 Relevant offences which may result in a licence application being refused, or a licence to be revoked, are listed under  [Schedule 7 of the Gambling Act (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/schedule/7)  .

##  Do not send us any documents unless we ask for them

##  Types of criminality checks


You may have a certificate from a previous DBS or Disclosure Scotland by an employer. Do  **not**  send us these certificates, even if the check was done recently. We will always request new checks as part of the application process.


 During the application process, we will let you know what checks will be completed and if we need anything further from you.

###  If you lived or worked in England or Wales

 We will carry out a  [Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/basic-dbs-checks-guidance)  , which is done electronically. We will ask you some questions in the application to enable us to carry out this check.

 If you declare any criminal history in your application, we reserve the right to carry out a Standard DBS check, instead of a Basic DBS check. You will be notified if we intend to do this. We cannot do this Standard check electronically, instead, we'll send you a form which you'll need to complete, sign, and return to us.

 Electronic checks can take 1 to 7 days to complete. Standard checks can take up to 3 weeks.

 DBS will issue a certificate which details any relevant convictions, warnings or offences against you.

 Once you get your certificate, we may ask you to send this to us. Do  **not**  send us your certificate unless we ask for it. We will tell you how and where to send it.

###  Electronic Disclosure and Barring Service (eDBS) checks

 To carry out electronic DBS (eDBS) checks, we must have your consent.

####  If consent is given to share the result of the eDBS check

 If you consent to sharing the result of the eDBS, you can progress the application online and when submitted, the application will be processed in the via the automated service.

####  If you do not give consent to share the result of the eDBS check

 If you do not consent to sharing the eDBS result with us, we cannot progress the application using the automated service.

 Instead, you must:

1. Use our online form to  [contact us about your application for a licence](/forms/contact-centre/applicants)  . Select the ‘I want to discuss other ways to submit my application for a licence’ option. A member of our Licensing team will contact you with an application form for you to complete.
2. If you are applying for a personal licence, you must pay for your application using GOV.UK Pay. The Licensing team will send you a payment link.
3. Pay for your own  [basic DBS check (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/request-copy-criminal-record)  .
4. Send us your DBS certificate, completed application form and any other supporting evidence required for the application. Submit these by email to  [Licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk](mailto:Licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk)  .

 Any information provided via the online services will be deleted in line with the  [Commission’s Privacy policy](/privacy-policy)  .

 Once we receive all of your documentation and payment, your application will be processed manually by a Licensing caseworker. The caseworker will provide an estimate on how long the application is likely to take to be determined.

 When the application has been processed and determined, you will receive an email notification from us as confirmation.

 As part of our compliance processes, the Commission will be asked to provide evidence that the required consent has been freely obtained.

 Further information is available in the  [DBS Consent policy (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/consent-privacy-policy/consent-policy)  .

###  If you were born or have lived in Scotland

 We will request a  [Disclosure Scotland check (opens in new tab)](https://www.mygov.scot/disclosure-types/)

 We will send you a form which you need to complete, sign and return to us.

 Disclosure Scotland checks can take up to 3 weeks.

 Disclosure Scotland will issue a certificate which details any relevant convictions, warning or offences against you.

 Once you get your certificate, we require you to send this to us and we will tell you how and where to send it.

###  If you were born outside of England, Wales or Scotland or lived overseas in the last 5 years

 We will ask you to obtain certified copies of your overseas police report from your local police force translated into English. (This is not required if you left your country of birth as a child.)

>  This is at your own cost and is not covered by the application fee. We will not pay any fees for obtaining or translating these documents.
>
>

 These documents need to be uploaded as part of your application. We may refuse your application if they are not provided, as your application is incomplete.

 You can find more information about  [certifying a document on GOV.UK (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/certifying-a-document)  .


 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) [Operating licence variation - Guidance notes

 application/pdf PDF 709.9 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/7jWCEZ8S6kZR0rWjtBORsJ/ab014ba4c05881f980759657d86ec112/Operating-licence-application-to-vary-form-guidance-notes.pdf)

---

 Last updated: 26 April 2023

 Show updates to this content  25 April 2023 - Added eDBS consent information.

 11 January 2023 - Following user feedback and an audit, we have edited this page for consistency. No substantive changes to requirements have been made.


* [Annex A guide](#)
* [New operating licence applicants](#new-operating-licence-applicants)
* [Existing operating licence holders](#existing-operating-licence-holders)
* [Criminal record checks](#criminal-record-checks-PFL)

 [Print this guide](#)


 Single machine permits are not intended to be used if you are operating a commercial business. You need a full  [gaming machine technical operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)  to operate a commercial business.

 You may be able to apply for a single machine permit instead of a gaming machine technical operating licence if you:

* collect gaming machines, such as fruit or slot machines as a private individual
* want to sell, repair or maintain a single machine or part of a gaming machine.


 You'll need to  [complete a paper application form](#7g7ZyFMhWpxRdJTuqmEtRG)  and return this to us.

>  Before you apply you should  [follow our guidance](/guidance/single-machine-application-for-a-permit-guidance-notes)  to help you complete the application form.
>
>

 If you submit a form with mistakes, or missing information, your application could be delayed or rejected. When we receive your application we'll carry out checks to ensure that you qualify for a single machine permit.


The application fee for a single machine permit is  **£40**  .


 Scan your completed form and return it to us by email:  [licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk](mailto:licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk)  .

 We no longer accept forms sent by post.


 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/)  .

 [Single machine permit application form

 application/pdf PDF 390.7 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/7g7ZyFMhWpxRdJTuqmEtRG/00d731dac1bfa4bce0921e209d862df1/Single_machine_permit_application_form.pdf)

---

 Last updated: 15 November 2022

 Show updates to this content  The following detailed guide linked (HTML version): Single Machine Application for a Permit - Guidance Notes.


 You need a premises licence from your local licensing authority to run a premises-based gambling business, for example, a betting shop, bingo hall or arcade.

 Your local licensing authority is usually your local council.  [Find your local council on GOV.UK (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council)

>  You need to have applied for an  [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)  from us before you apply for a premises licence.
>
>

 You should apply for a provisional statement from your local licensing authority if:

* your premises still needs to be built
* your premises needs major alterations
* you do not have the right to occupy it.

 You can directly apply for a premises licence from your local licensing authority if:

* you have the right to occupy your premises
* you have a valid operating licence that allows you to run your gambling business.


You may find it useful to review your local licensing authority’s gambling statement of policy before you apply. This will help you to see what their requirements are for gambling premises in their area. Contact your local licensing authority for more information.


Local licensing authorities in England and Wales are allowed to set the cost of a premises licence, depending on the type of premises. Read more about  [gambling premises licence fees on legislation.gov (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2007/479/contents/made)  .


The fees for premises licences in Scotland have been set centrally. Read more about  [gambling premises licence fees in Scotland on legislation.gov (opens in new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2007/197/contents/made)  .


 You must notify the following if you have applied for a premises licence or a provisional statement:

* Gambling Commission
* [HM Revenue & Customs (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs)
* your local Chief of Police
* [your local Fire and Rescue Service (opens in new tab)](https://www.fireservice.co.uk/information/ukfrs/)
* your local environmental health department
* your local planning authority your local licensing authority child protection service.

>  You must do this within 7 days of applying.
>
>


 You'll also need to announce that you have applied in public.

 You can do this by:

* publishing in a local newspaper or newsletter
* posting notice in a convenient place outside the proposed premises.

 You must do this  **at least once**  in the 10 working days after you submit your application.

---

 Last updated: 9 June 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


 Maintenance is due 5 years after the anniversary of the first licence being issued. For example, if your first licence was issued on 1 January 2007, your first maintenance would be due on 1 January 2012. The next maintenance would then be due on 1 January 2017 and so on.

 The Gambling Act allows 30 days from the anniversary date for personal licensees to submit an application and pay the required maintenance fee.

 When your maintenance is due, you will receive an email from the Gambling Commission telling you that you should sign in to the  [manage your personal licence service (opens in a new tab)]( https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/manageyourpersonallicence)  and submit the maintenance application. This email will be sent on your anniversary date.

 As soon as your maintenance application is paid and submitted, the personal licence holder will receive regular updates from the Licensing team about the progress of the application.

 If the maintenance application is not received within 30 days of the anniversary date, a notice of revocation email will be sent. The personal licence holder then has a further 28 days from this notice to submit and pay for the maintenance application.

 If no maintenance application and payment is received after the 28 days, a final revocation email will be sent confirming that the personal licence is inactive. At this point the personal licence holder will no longer be able to work in the gambling industry in a role that requires a licence.


 The fee for a maintenance application is:

* £145 for a personal functional licence
* £370 for a personal management licence.

 Payment can only be made using the  [manage your personal licence service (opens in a new tab)]( https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/manageyourpersonallicence)  by Debit or Credit card.

>  Maintenance fees are non-refundable.
>
>

---

 Last updated: 11 November 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


 These are the types of gambling licences you will need to run your gambling business.

##  Arcades licence activities

##  Betting licence activities

##  Bingo licence activities

##  Casino licence activities

##  Gambling software licence activities

##  Gaming machines licence activities

##  Lottery licence activities

---

 Last updated: 19 April 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


 [Adult gaming centre](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/adult-gaming-centre)

 [Family entertainment centre](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/family-entertainment-centre)


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

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

 [Non-remote betting intermediary licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-betting-intermediary-operating-licence)

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

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

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

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

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

 [Remote general betting limited licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-general-betting-limited-licence)

 [Remote betting intermediary operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-betting-intermediary-operating-licence)

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

 [Remote pool betting licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-pool-betting-licence)


 [Non-remote bingo operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-bingo)

 [Remote bingo operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-bingo)

 [Remote bingo game host operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-bingo-game-host-operating-licence)


 [Non-remote 1968 Act casino operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-1968-act-casino-operating-licence)

 [Non-remote 2005 Act casino operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-2005-act-casino-operating-licence)

 [Remote casino operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-casino-operating-licence)

 [Remote casino game host operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-casino-game-host-operating-licence)


 [Non-remote gambling software licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gambling-software-licence)

 [Non-remote linked licences gambling software](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-linked-licences-gambling-software)

 [Remote gambling software licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gambling-software-licence)

 [Remote linked licences gambling software](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gambling-software)


 [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 - software operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)

 [Non-remote gaming machine technical - supplier licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-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 gaming machine technical - full licence](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)

 [Remote gaming machine technical - supplier 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)

 [Remote linked licences gaming machine technical](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)


 [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)

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


* [Licence activities](#)
* [Arcades](#arcades-licence-activities)
* [Betting](#betting-licence-activities)
* [Bingo](#bingo-licence-activities)
* [Casino](#casino-licence-activities)
* [Gambling software](#gambling-software-licence-activities)
* [Gaming machines](#gaming-machines-licence-activities)
* [Lotteries](#lottery-licence-activities)

 [Print this guide](#)


Fees you need to pay and when you should pay them

You will need to pay a fee to apply for a licence.


 If you hold an  [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)  you will need to pay an annual fee to continue holding your licence.

|  Fee  |  When paid  |  How  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  Application fee  |  When you submit your application  |  Credit or Debit card  |
|  First annual fee  |  Within 30 days of your licence being issued  |  Credit or Debit Card  BACS/CHAPS  |
|  Annual fee  |  Annually on the anniversary of your licence being issued  |  Credit or Debit Card  BACS/CHAPS  |

 You can find out what your operating licence fees are by using the  [fees calculator service](/service/operating-licence-fees-calculator)  .


|  Fee  |  When paid  |  How  |
| --- | --- | --- |
|  Application fee  |  When you submit your application  |  Credit or Debit card online  |
|  Maintenance fee  |  Every 5 years on the anniversary of your licence being issued  |  Credit or Debit Card online  |

 You can find information about the current fees on the following pages:

* [Personal Functional Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-functional-licence)
* [Personal Management Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  .

---

 Last updated: 23 December 2022

 Show updates to this content  Formatting changes


>  It is a requirement of the  [Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/introduction)  for operators to pay their annual fee in full before the anniversary date of their operating licence. This is the date your licence was first issued and is stated on the operating licence.
>
>

 If you hold an operating licence, you must pay an annual fee to keep it.

 We will issue an invoice to you 6 weeks before the fee is payable. The invoice is also available in  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  where it can also be paid by credit or debit card.  [Find out more about paying fees](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)  .

 If you have not already registered for eServices, email us:  [licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk](mailto:licensing@gamblingcommission.gov.uk)

>  Licence application or annual fees are not refundable in any circumstance. We will only issue refunds if you have overpaid for some reason.
>
>


 When you apply for, or vary your operating licence, we tell you what your application and annual fees are. You can find invoices for annual fees paid or due in  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  .

 You can also use our  [fees calculator](/service/operating-licence-fees-calculator)  to find out what the current annual fees are for the licence activities you hold.


 Operators wishing to vary licenses, for example, to remove a licensed activity no longer provided or to increase and/or decrease the fee category of a licensed activity to accommodate updated Gross Gambling Yield (GGY) projections, must apply as soon as possible via  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  .

 The variation application must be  **granted before the anniversary date**  of the issue of the licence for it to impact the annual fee payable. Submission of an application does not guarantee that the annual fee will be amended.

 When making an application, operators must provide evidence they are no longer providing the licensed activity to customers and/or that they should be in a different fee category. If operators do not provide this evidence, we may refuse the application and the application fee will not be refunded.


 You should make the payment online, as this is our preferred payment method. Paying online means we can easily identify which licensee or applicant the payment is for.

 If you cannot pay online we will accept payment by bank transfer. However, the annual fee invoice number (starting with INV followed by numbers)  **must**  be included in the payment details, or we will not be able to apply the payment.

###  UK bank details

 Our bank details are:

 Bank  Barclays  Account name  Gambling Commission Income Account  Sort code  20-05-75  Account number  20358363 ###  International bank details

 IBAN  GB57 BARC 2005 7520358363  SWIFTBIC  BARCGB22 ##  What if I cannot pay my annual fee

##  Non-trading businesses and annual fees

##  How to surrender your licence

---

 Last updated: 28 March 2023

 Show updates to this content  Updated to clarify process.


>  It is a requirement of the Gambling Act 2005 for operators to pay their annual fee in full before the anniversary date of their operating licence. This is the date your licence was first issued and is stated on the operating licence. If you cannot pay then we must revoke your licence.
>
>

 If your licence has been revoked because of non-payment of your annual fee, but you wish to continue operating, you will need to re-apply. Until a new licence is issued, you should not conduct any activities that your licence permits.

 If you do surrender your operating licence, you will not be able to trade again until you have applied for and been granted a new operating licence. You would then have to pay the application fee and, if the licence is granted, a first annual fee 30 days after the issue date of the new licence.

>  You cannot pay fees due to the Commission in instalments.
>
>


 It is a requirement of the Gambling Act 2005 for operators to pay their annual fee in full before the anniversary date stated on their operating licence. The fact that you may not have traded does not affect this legal requirement. If you wish to retain your operating licence, you must pay the annual fee by the due date.

 If you surrender your licence the fee will not be payable.


 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 6666**  (option 2).

 From outside the UK, call us on  **+44 121 230 6666**  (option 2).

###  Email:

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

###  Online:

 You can partially surrender your licences in  [eServices](/service/operator-eservices)  .

>  If you do surrender your operating licence, you will not be able to trade again until you have applied for and been granted a new operating licence. You would then have to pay the application fee and, if the licence is granted, a first annual fee 30 days after the issue date of the new licence.
>
>


* [Annual fees](#)
* [What if I cannot pay my annual fee](#what-if-i-cannot-pay-my-annual-fee)
* [Non-trading businesses and annual fees](#non-trading-businesses-and-annual-fees)

 [Print this guide](#)


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

 These are the supporting documents you will need for your application for an operating licence for your gambling business. Note that medium to large businesses will also need to provide additional supporting documents for remote or online aspects of their businesses:

|  Document name  |  Small  |  Medium to Large  |  Remote (online)  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
|  **[Annual reports](#annual-reports)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Annual returns](#annual-returns)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Audited accounts](#audited-accounts)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Bank statements](#bank-statements)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Bonus and or profit sharing schemes](#bonus-profit-sharing-schemes)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Business plan](#business-plan)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Certificate of incorporation](#certificate-of-incorporation)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Compliance with remote technical standard (RTS)](#compliance-with-remote-technical-standard-rts)**  |  Not applicable  |  Not applicable  |  Yes  |
|  **[Constitution](#constitution)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Credit report](#credit-report)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Existing licences](#existing-licences)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Forecasts](#forecasts)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Gambling software supply details](#gambling-software-supply-details)**  |  Not applicable  |  Not applicable  |  Yes  |
|  **[Group structure chart](#group-structure-chart)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Individual identity documents](#individual-identity-documents)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Individual's compensation](#individuals-compensation)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Insolvency, administration and or liquidation report](#insolvency-administration-and-or-liquidation-reports)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Loan agreements](#loan-agreements)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Management structure](#management-structure)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Memorandum of association and articles of association](#memorandum-of-association-and-articles-of-association)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Operational model map](#operational-model-map)**  |  Not applicable  |  Not applicable  |  Yes  |
|  **[Ownership structure](#ownership-structure)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Partnership agreement](#partnership-agreement)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Policies and procedures](#policies-and-procedures-for-documents)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Public debt and or equity offerings](#public-debt-and-or-equity-offerings)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Rules of play](#rules-of-play)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Share certificates](#share-certificates)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[System diagram](#system-diagram)**  |  Not applicable  |  Not applicable  |  Yes  |
|  **[System diagram for end to end process](#system-diagram-for-end-to-end-process)**  |  Not applicable  |  Not applicable  |  Yes  |
|  **[Terms and conditions](#terms-and-conditions)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |
|  **[Testing strategy](#testing-strategy)**  |  Not applicable  |  Not applicable  |  Yes  |
|  **[Trust documents (trust deed, letter of wishes, letter of consent from Trustees)](#trust-documents-trust-deed-letter-of-wishes-letter-of-consent-from-trustees)**  |  Yes  |  Yes  |  Not applicable  |

##  Annual reports

##  Annual returns

##  Audited accounts

##  Bank statements

##  Bonus and profit sharing schemes

##  Business Plan

##  Certificate of incorporation

##  Compliance with remote technical standard (RTS)

##  Constitution

##  Credit report

##  Existing licences

##  Forecasts

##  Gambling software supply details

##  Group structure chart

##  Individual identity documents

##  Individual's compensation

##  Insolvency, administration and or liquidation reports

##  Loan agreements

##  Management structure

##  Memorandum of association and articles of association

##  Operational model map

##  Ownership structure

##  Partnership agreement

##  Policies and procedures for documents

##  Public debt and or equity offerings

##  Rules of play

##  Share certificates

##  System diagram

##  System diagram for end to end process

##  Terms and conditions

##  Testing strategy

##  Trust documents (trust deed, letter of wishes, letter of consent from trustees)

##  Trust beneficiaries

##  Trustees

##  Settlor

##  Protector

---

 Last updated: 19 July 2022

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


Any quarterly, semi-annual or annual reports you have lodged with any government authority or regulator in the past five years.


 All annual returns you have provided to any regulator for the past five years.

 This includes:

* annual returns to any tax authority
* annual returns to Companies House or overseas equivalent
* annual returns to the Charity Commission or overseas equivalent.


If your business is a limited company that has already been trading for a year. Audited accounts should also be provided for any parent and/or holding company.


 Bank statements for all accounts operated by your business for the last six months. These must be in the name of the applicant and show sort code and International Bank Account Number (IBAN) Business Identifier Code.

 For new businesses not yet operating bank accounts. If part of a larger corporate structure, bank statements of the parent company for the last six months.

 If not part of a larger corporate structure, other equivalent evidence of financial standing will be required and the Commission may request additional information.


 Details of any bonus schemes, profit sharing arrangements, pension schemes, retirement schemes, deferred compensation arrangements and similar plans you operate for any employees. You must include:

* the name and specifications of each scheme
* the trustee of each scheme where applicable
* the full terms and conditions of each scheme
* what type of employee/individual each scheme is available to
* what criteria an employee/individual must meet to qualify for each scheme.


 A brief document that sets out the reason for the licence application, the activities that will be undertaken, how the business is being funded, where the business will operate, the medium term goals of the business and how success will be measured.

 A detailed document that includes:

* organisational background
* details of facilities to be provided
* marketing plan
* financial plan
* risk evaluation and risk management plan
* governance and management framework
* legal framework in which the business is operating
* business objectives for the next 12 months
* success criteria
* any other relevant information.


Compliance with remote technical standard (RTS)

Written policies and procedures detailing how you will comply with the  [remote gambling and software technical standards](/standards/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)  (RTS).


Any constitution or constitutional documents. These are documents which define the existence of the entity and regulate the structure and control of the entity and its members.


###  If your business is a limited company based outside the United Kingdom

 If your business is a partnership based outside the United Kingdom you will need to send personal credit reports.


Copies of existing gambling-related licences if your business is already licensed outside Great Britain. If applications are in progress in jurisdictions outside GB but not yet completed please provide details.


 A 12 month profit/loss forecast including a commentary on the assumptions that have been made in creating the forecast.

 A three year profit/loss forecast including a commentary on the assumptions that have been made in creating the forecast.


 The name, address and licence number of all of the organisations who provide gambling software to the Applicant. Third party suppliers of software for use in the provision of gambling facilities to customers in Great Britain must be licensed by the Gambling Commission. You may include this in the operational model map so this does not have to be a separate document.

 If you are applying for a gambling software licence, you must supply policies and procedures detailing how the business supplies gambling software via remote communication (for example File Transfer Protocol, server downloads). You may include this in the operational model map so this does not have to be a separate document.


If your business is a limited company and is part of a larger corporate structure. The chart should show all the companies within the group structure and demonstrate the nature of the link and the percentage of holdings. With a complicated group structure a commentary should also be provided in the business plan.


If you are a sole trader, you must provide personal identity documents.


 A list of individuals you have compensated more than USD$250,000 (or GBP £200,000) in the last financial year.

 Compensation refers to dividends, bonuses, salaries, employee contract benefits/arrangements or any other remuneration.

 The list must include:

* the full name of the individual
* the amount of compensation they received during the last financial year
* what form the compensation took
* the reason the compensation was paid; the date the compensation started
* the date it ended or is due to end
* any terms or conditions of the compensation.


Insolvency, administration and or liquidation reports

Any insolvency, administration or liquidation reports relating to the business (or any parent or sister or subsidiary company of the business).


###  For small businesses

 For sole proprietors and partnerships, if a loan has been obtained to fund the business provide a copy of the loan agreement.

 For all other businesses, provide copies of all loan agreements linked to the company.

 For all limited businesses, provide copies of all loan agreements linked to the business.


The structure should show all key management positions.


 An operational model map which shows the location and provider/operator of all systems and activities used by the business to deliver gambling services and facilities.

 The diagram needs to show the location of key equipment, and the relationship between the systems, activities, and third party providers, including how they interact and/or link together.


###  For all businesses

 The chart should show who has a financial interest in the business. Anyone with a 3 percent equity or more in the company must be named and the percentage of their holding shown. Anyone with a 10 percent or more equity is a financial controller and must submit an  [Annex A](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  or, if responsible for a key management function, a  [personal licence application](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  .

 If the business is part of a larger corporate structure it is acceptable to provide a single chart to show the group structure and the ownership structure. With a complicated ownership structure a commentary should also be provided in the business plan.


If your business is a limited company.


 Written policies and procedures that explain how the business will meet the following licensing objectives in regard to all the activities applied for:

* keeping crime and disorder out of gambling
* ensuring that gambling is fair and open
* ensuring that children and vulnerable people are protected from being harmed by gambling
* promoting social responsibility in gambling.

 The policies must cover all Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice that will apply to the business if a licence is granted and must specifically include a complaints procedure and who will be the  [ADR](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/approved-alternative-dispute-resolution-adr-providers)  for the business, the self-exclusion procedure, how the business will keep up-to-date with any changes to  [LCCP](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  and legislation and, for premises-based businesses, evidence of a  [local risk assessment](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/local-area-risk-assessments)  .

 Submitting an industry trade body toolkit is not evidence by itself that you have satisfactory policies. You must demonstrate how you will be implementing the procedures in the toolkit specifically for your business.

 Businesses providing remote casino, bingo and virtual event betting and/or non-remote casinos must provide an  [anti-money laundering policy](/licensees-and-businesses/page/for-all-other-gambling-businesses-aml-responsibilities)  .

###  For medium to large businesses

 The policies should be supported wherever possible by process maps/flow diagrams which show how they will work in practice, where the escalation and decision points are, who is responsible for making those decisions and what their role in the business is. They should highlight any potential risks to the licensing objectives and the business and detail how these risks will be managed and mitigated.

 All businesses (except gaming machine technical and gambling software licences) must conduct a money laundering and terrorist financing risk assessment, which should then be used to inform the operator’s associated policies, procedures and controls. Operators must assess and effectively manage the money laundering and terrorist financing risks applicable to their business, and the responsibility for this lies with the licensed operator, who is accountable for any shortcomings.


Documents relating to any public debt or equity offerings you have lodged in the past 12 months.


Provide copies of the rules of play for the gambling being offered (where applicable).


If the business is limited by share certificates for all shareholdings in the business of 10 percent or more.


 The system diagram and commentary should provide the names and details of any aspects of the provision that the applicant outsources via third-party providers for example:

* payment services
* age identity providers
* geolocation verification providers
* marketing
* customer service
* fraud detection
* server hosting and data storage
* delivery support
* administration.


A system diagram details the end-to-end process showing how the gambling activity will work from when a person registers, moves through into the gambling process to the pay-out of winnings providing commentary of the activities that happen at each stage. The system diagram and commentary should also include information on the location of the remote equipment.


Provide copies of the terms and conditions which customers must agree to prior to gambling (where applicable). If the terms and conditions are not yet finalised please provide a draft copy.


**Remote (Online)**  Procedures that show how you will comply with the  [testing strategy](/strategy/testing-strategy-for-compliance-with-remote-gambling-and-software-technical)  for compliance with  [remote gambling and software technical standards](/standards/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)  . The procedures should include the identity of a third party test house or a declaration of compliance with good practice if testing is to be carried out in-house.


Trust documents (trust deed, letter of wishes, letter of consent from trustees)

###  Criteria

 If your business is a trust or there is a trust involved in the ownership structure, the Commission’s application disclosure requirements for Trusts are the same as those for other entity types and/or individuals that are part of an applicant’s ownership structure.

 However, it is important to note that whilst the disclosure requirements set out below are general principles of the information required to support an application, the Commission retains the right to request further information or documents when this is required.

 Where the Trust’s ownership equates to 3 percent or above interest in the applicant in your application, you must include:

* a copy of the trust deed
* a copy of the letter of wishes
* a copy of the letter of consent from the trustees (i.e. that they have consented to act as trustees).


 We require an Annex A from those beneficiaries whose interest in the Trust equates to a 10 percent or more controlling interest in the applicant. The Annex A must be submitted online through our  [Apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  . If any beneficiary is under 18, then we do not require an Annex A from them.

 If the beneficiary’s interest in the Trust equates to less than 10 percent but 3 percent or more, then we require the name, address, and date of birth of all beneficiaries which should be shown in the trust deed – if not, you must provide this information.


 We require an Annex A from all Trustees where the Trust’s interest in the applicant equates to a 10 percent or more controlling interest in the applicant and/or licensee. The Annex A must be submitted online through our  [Apply for a personal licence service](/service/apply-for-a-personal-licence)  .

 In the case of the Trustee being a company, we require an Annex A from the person or people in that company who have lead responsibility for matters relating to the Trust.

 If the Trust’s interest in the applicant equates to equates to less than 10 percent but 3 percent or more, we require the name, address and date of birth of all Trustees which should be shown in the trust deed – if not, you must provide this information.


We will not usually require an Annex A from the Settlor. We require the name, address and date of birth of the Settlor which should be shown in the trust deed – if not, you must provide this information.


We will not usually require an Annex A from the Protector. We require the name, address and date of birth of the Protector which should be shown in the trust deed – if not, you must provide this information.


 Use our online service to see if you need a licence from us.

 [Start  about check if you need a licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/do-i-need-a-licence)


* [What you need to send us when you apply for an operating licence](#)
* [Annual reports](#annual-reports)
* [Annual returns](#annual-returns)
* [Audited accounts](#audited-accounts)
* [Bank statements](#bank-statements)
* [Bonus and profit sharing schemes](#bonus-profit-sharing-schemes)
* [Business Plan](#business-plan)
* [Certificate of incorporation](#certificate-of-incorporation)
* [Compliance with remote technical standard (RTS)](#compliance-with-remote-technical-standard-rts)
* [Constitution](#constitution)
* [Credit report](#credit-report)
* [Existing licences](#existing-licences)
* [Forecasts](#forecasts)
* [Gambling software supply details](#gambling-software-supply-details)
* [Group structure chart](#group-structure-chart)
* [Individual identity documents](#individual-identity-documents)
* [Individual's compensation](#individuals-compensation)
* [Insolvency, administration and or liquidation reports](#insolvency-administration-and-or-liquidation-reports)
* [Loan agreements](#loan-agreements)
* [Management structure](#management-structure)
* [Memorandum of association and articles of association](#memorandum-of-association-and-articles-of-association)
* [Operational model map](#operational-model-map)
* [Ownership structure](#ownership-structure)
* [Partnership agreement](#partnership-agreement)
* [Policies and procedures for documents](#policies-and-procedures-for-documents)
* [Public debt and or equity offerings](#public-debt-and-or-equity-offerings)
* [Rules of play](#rules-of-play)
* [Share certificates](#share-certificates)
* [System diagram](#system-diagram)
* [System diagram for end to end process](#system-diagram-for-end-to-end-process)
* [Terms and conditions](#terms-and-conditions)
* [Testing strategy](#testing-strategy)
* [Trust documents (trust deed, letter of wishes, letter of consent from trustees)](#trust-documents-trust-deed-letter-of-wishes-letter-of-consent-from-trustees)

 [Print this guide](#)


>  We call businesses with 3 people or less in relevant management positions small scale operators.
>
>

###  Qualifying management positions include:

* overall strategy and delivery of gambling operations
* financial planning, control and budgeting
* marketing and commercial development
* regulatory compliance
* gambling-related IT provision and security
* management of licensed activity for a particular area in Great Britain where you have five or more sets of premises for which you hold a premises licence
* management of a single set of bingo and/or casino licensed premises.
* nominated officer for anti-money laundering and associated purposes for a casino operator.

 A small scale operator may not need to have a  [Personal Management Licence (PML)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)  holder.

 If you qualify as a small-scale operator, you will need to  [submit an operating licence application](/service/apply-for-an-operating-licence)  with details of anyone in these positions.

 The named people in the qualifying management positions will each need to submit an  [Annex A](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)  along with all of the supporting documents for their application, instead of a PML application. This will make them a named person on Schedule X of your operating licence.


 Small scale operators running society lotteries must at all times have a named person with responsibility for promotion of the lottery. This named person needs to be:

* a member, officer, or employee of the society (not an external lottery manager)
* approved by the Gambling Commission
* listed on Schedule X of the lottery operating licence.

>  Although having just one named person is sufficient to meet the legal requirements, we recommend having more than one named person. This will reduce the risk of having to suspend your lottery should you find yourself without a named person.
>
>


 We would not normally expect those that are applying for a non-remote or remote casino licences to be small scale operators.

 If you think that you qualify for this exemption, you need to be able to demonstrate that those occupying relevant management positions can:

* uphold the licensing objectives
* adhere to licence conditions and codes of practice
* manage the particular risks of casino operation effectively with the reduced numbers of relevant people.

 It is our view that it would be difficult for any casino operator to satisfy our requirements with only three people in these positions. We would normally expect these businesses to have more than three people occupying these positions and that those individuals will need to have PMLs.

 If you believe you can demonstrate effective management and control with just three people, you must explain this clearly with your application and provide relevant supporting evidence to demonstrate that this is the case.

##  Adding or removing a named person from your licence (Schedule X)

##  Adding or removing someone from your operating licence (Schedule Y)

---

 Last updated: 23 December 2022

 Show updates to this content  Formatting changes


Adding or removing a named person from your licence (Schedule X)

 To add or remove people on your licence, you must submit a variation application using our  [variation application form](#LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L)  and pay a fee. The current fees are detailed on the  [making changes to your operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  page.

>  It takes around 8 weeks to consider and approve a person to be added to Schedule X of your operating licence.
>
>


Adding or removing someone from your operating licence (Schedule Y)

>  This guidance only applies to operating licensees who hold  [General betting (limited)](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-limited-operating-licence)  and who qualify as a  [Small Scale Operator (SSO)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  .
>
>

 You can add an on-course representative to Schedule Y of your operating licence to allow them to accept bets on your behalf without your direct supervision. To add or remove people on your licence, you must submit a variation application using our  [variation application form](#LmSW4LP22Qv258kEvsD7L)  and pay a fee.

 The current fees are detailed on the  [making changes to your operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  page.

 Any individuals being added to your licence must submit an  [Annex A](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)  for approval.

 When adding an on-course representative to take bets on your behalf you must supply a signed contract of employment showing the terms and conditions they are employed under with your variation application.

>  It takes around 8 weeks to consider and approve a person to be added to Schedule Y of your operating licence.
>
>


* [Small businesses and sole traders](#)
* [Adding or removing a named person from your licence (Schedule X)](#adding-or-removing-a-named-person-to-your-licence-schedule-x)
* [Adding or removing someone from your operating licence (Schedule Y)](#adding-or-removing-a-representative-from-your-operating-licence-schedule-y)

 [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)