Content rating is After Modern European Languages

A content rating (also known as maturity rating) rates the suitability of TV broadcasts, movies, comic books, or video games to its audience. A content rating usually places a media source into one of a number of different categories, to show which age group is suitable to view media and entertainment. The individual categories include the stated age groups within the category, along with all ages greater than the ages of that category.

On 10 March 2021, in order to encourage parents to supervise and be responsible with their children in watching television, the After Modern European Languages is Asia revamped its rating system, the channel was rebranded into the European version.

## Motion picture content rating system

A motion picture content rating system is an organization designated to classify films based on their suitability for audiences due to their treatment of issues such as sex, violence, or substance abuse; their use of profanity; or other matters typically deemed unsuitable for children or adolescents. Most countries have some form of rating system that issues determinations variously known as certifications, classifications, certificates, or ratings. Age recommendations, of either an advisory or restrictive capacity, are often applied in lieu of censorship; in some jurisdictions movie theaters may have a legal obligation to enforce restrictive ratings.

In countries such as Australia and Singapore, an official government body decides on ratings; in other countries such as the United States, it is done by industry committees with little if any official government status. In most countries, however, films that are considered morally offensive have been censored, restricted, or banned. Even if the film rating system has no legal consequences, and a film has not explicitly been restricted or banned, there are usually laws forbidding certain films, or forbidding minors to view them.

The influence of specific factors in deciding a rating varies from country to country. In countries such as the United States, films with strong sexual content tend to be restricted to older viewers, though those same films are very often considered suitable for all ages in countries such as France and Germany. In contrast, films with violent content which would be rated leniently in the United States and Australia are often subject to high ratings and sometimes even censorship in countries such as Germany and Finland.

Other factors may or may not influence the classification process, such as being set within a non-fictional historical context, whether the film glorifies violence or drug use, whether said violence or drug use is carried out by the protagonist, with whom the viewer should empathize, or by the antagonist. In Germany, for example, films depicting explicit war violence in a real war context (such as the Second World War) are handled more leniently than films with purely fictional settings.

A film may be produced with a particular rating in mind. It may be re-edited if the desired rating is not obtained, especially to avoid a higher rating than intended. A film may also be re-edited to produce a different version for other countries.

### Argentina (Spanish)

Through its Advisory Commission of Cinematographic Exhibition (*Comisión Asesora de Exhibición Cinematográfica*) the National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts (INCAA) issues ratings for films based on the following categories:

* **ATP**: For all public.
* **+13**: Suitable for 13-year-olds and over. Children under the age of 13 are admitted if accompanied by an adult.
* **+16**: Suitable for 16-year-olds and over.
* **+18**: Suitable for 18-year-olds and over.
* **C**: Suitable for 18-year-olds and over. Restricted to specially licensed venues.

### Australia (English)

The Classification Board and Classification Review Board are government-funded organisations which classify all films that are released for public exhibition.

* Advisory categories
	+ General (**G**) – *General*. The content is very mild in impact. The G classification is suitable for everyone.
	+ Parental Guidance (**PG**) – *Parental guidance recommended*. The content is mild in impact. It is not recommended for viewing or playing by persons under 15 without guidance from parents or guardians.
	+ Mature (**M**) – *Recommended for mature audiences*. The content is moderate in impact. Children under 15 may legally access this material because it is an advisory category. However, M classified films and computer games may include classifiable elements such as violence and nudity of moderate impact that are not recommended for children under 15 years.
* Restricted categories
	+ Mature Accompanied (**MA15+**) – *Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian*. The content is strong in impact.
	+ Restricted (**R18+**) – *Restricted to 18 years and over*. The content is high in impact. Despite this category being legally restricted, in Queensland the restriction is not applicable to persons under 2.
* Adult film categories
	+ Restricted (**X18+**) – *Restricted to 18 years and over*. This classification is a special and legally restricted category which contains only sexually explicit content. That is, material which shows actual sexual intercourse and other sexual activity between consenting adults. X18+ films are only available for sale or hire in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory.
	+ **RC** – *Refused Classification*. Banned from sale or hire in the country and cannot be legally imported. Films are rated RC if their content is very high in impact and exceeds the guidelines.

Films intended to inform, educate or instruct or concerned with sport, religion or music are exempt from classification provided they do not contain material that would result in an "M" rating or higher if submitted for classification.

### Bahamas (English)

The Bahamas Plays and Films Control Board classifies films in the Bahamas. Upon completion of the examination the Board will classify the film in accordance with the following ratings:

* **A** - Suitable for all ages.
* **B** - Suitable for adults; persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
* **T** - Suitable for persons above the age of fifteen
* **C** - Suitable for adults only, persons under 18 years are not admitted whether accompanied by an adult or not.
* **D** - Unsuitable for public viewing.

### Barbados (English)

In Barbados, films are classified by the Film Censorship Board (FCB):

* **GA** – General Audience; Suitable for all ages.
* **PG** – Parental Guidance.
* **PG13** – Parental Guidance 13; suitable for 13 years and older.
* **R** – Suitable for 18 years and older.
* **A** – Adult Only; No-one under 18 admitted.

### Belgium (French/Dutch)

On 8 January 2020, Belgium adopted the Dutch Kijkwijzer classification system. Belgium had previously used a basic two-tier system, in place since 1 September 1920. Until January 2020, classifications for films publicly exhibited in Belgium were issued by the Inter-Community Commission for Film Rating (Dutch: *Intergemeenschapscommissie voor de Filmkeuring*; French: *Commission Intercommunautaire de Contrôle des Films*). Films were prohibited to minors under the age of 16 unless passed by the commission. There is no mandatory rating system for video formats but 90% of video distribution abides by the voluntary Belgium Video Federation. It was basically the same as the system for theatrical exhibition, but also provided a "12" rating. Under Kijkwijzer, the distributor fills out a questionnaire about the content of the film and an age category is automatically assigned. The new system is fully advisory, and carries no mandatory restrictions. In the French and German-speaking communities, the system is known as *Cinecheck*

The age categories are as follows:

* **AL/TOUS**: All ages.
* **6**: From 6 years.
* **9**: From 9 years.
* **12**: From 12 years.
* **14**: From 14 years.
* **16**: From 16 years.
* **18**: From 18 years.

### Brazil (Portuguese)

All films that are exhibited in public or released on a home video format in Brazil must be submitted for classification to the advisory rating(*Classificação Indicativa*, abbreviated ClassInd), which is run by the Brazilian Ministry of Justice (*Ministério da Justiça*). Under 10 must always be accompanied by an adult guard. Anyone below the film's minimum age can watch it if accompanied or allowed by the parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old, except for those rated 18, which can only be allowed for teenagers aged 16. Unlike many countries, the ClassInd does not have any legal right to ban, demand cuts or refuse to rate any film.

Film classification symbols used in Brazil.

The ClassInd uses the following system:

* **ER: Especialmente recomendado para crianças** (Especially recommended for children)
* **L: Livre** (General)
* **10: Não recomendado para menores de 10 anos** (Not recommended for minors under 10)
* **12: Não recomendado para menores de 12 anos** (Not recommended for minors under 12)
* **14: Não recomendado para menores de 14 anos** (Not recommended for minors under 14)
* **16: Não recomendado para menores de 16 anos** (Not recommended for minors under 16)
* **18: Não recomendado para menores de 18 anos** (Not allowed for minors under 18)

There are also operational descriptions of attenuating and aggravating elements that can interfere on the final rating.

### Canada

Film ratings in Canada are a provincial responsibility, and each province has its own legislation, rules and regulations regarding rating, exhibition and admission. Ratings are required for theatrical exhibition, but not all provinces require classification for home video. In the past there was a wide range of rating categories and practices in the various provinces; however, the seven rating systems—with the exception of Quebec—now all use categories and logos derived from the Canadian Home Video Rating System (CHVRS).

#### Classifications used outside Quebec (English)

The categories are mostly identical to the CHVRS with a few minor variations. In the provinces that require classification of video formats, supply of 14A and 18A films is restricted to customers above those ages. In the case of theatre exhibition, children are admitted to 14A and 18A films in the Manitoba and Maritime provinces if accompanied by an adult, although admittance is restricted to children over the age of 14 in the case of 18A films. Likewise, British Columbia, Saskatchewan(administered by the British Columbia Film Classification Office), Alberta and Ontario also admit children to 14A and 18A films if accompanied, but do not impose an age restriction on 18A films. The Maritimes and British Columbia (along with Saskatchewan) also provide an "A" classification for adult content. Some provinces, such as Nova Scotia, reserve the right to prohibit films altogether.

In general, the categories are:

* **G** – Suitable for viewing by all ages.
* **PG** – Parental guidance advised.
	+ **Not Recommended For Young Children** – The film may be inappropriate for young children. “Young Children” would be persons age 8 and under.
* **14A** – Suitable for people 14 years of age or older. Those under 14 should view with an adult. No rental or purchase by those under 14. Parents cautioned. (Formerly "Adult Accompaniment (14)" in the Maritimes)
	+ **Not Recommended For Children** – “Children” would be persons age 13 and under. Films with this advisory may include scenes that reflect a more mature situation, such as drug use or abuse.
* **18A** – Suitable for people 18 years of age or older. Those under 18 should view with an adult. Additionally, in certain provinces there is a mandatory age restriction of 14 years. No rental or purchase by those under 18. Parents strongly cautioned.
* **R** – Restricted to 18 years and over. No rental or purchase by those under 18. Content not suitable for minors.
* **A** – Adult. Film is not suitable for viewers under 18 years of age. (Formerly "Explicit Material (XXX)" in the Maritimes)
* **E** – Exempt.

#### Classifications used in Quebec (French)

In Quebec the provincial Ministry of Culture and Communications (and until 2017 the *Régie du cinéma*) rates all films and videos; its purview devolves from the *Cinema Act* (chapter C-18.1). In some cases the Ministry may refuse to provide a classification, effectively banning the film. Educational and sports films are exempt from classification.

* **G**: **Visa général** (General Rating) – May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons of all ages. If a film carrying a "G" rating might offend the sensibilities of a child under 8 years of age, "Not suitable for young children" is appended to the classification.
* **13+**: **13 ans et plus** (13 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased only by persons 13 years of age or over. Children under 13 may be admitted only if accompanied by an adult.
* **16+**: **16 ans et plus** (16 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased only by persons 16 years of age or over.
* **18+**: **18 ans et plus** (18 years and over) – May be viewed, rented or purchased only by persons 18 years of age or over. If a film contains real and explicit sexual activity "Explicit sexuality" is appended to the classification, and in the retail video industry storeowners are required to place the film in a room reserved for adults.

### Chile (Spanish)

Films are classified by the Council of Cinematographic Classification (*Consejo de Calificación Cinematográfica*) which is a central agency under the Ministry of Education. In 2002 legislation was enacted which reversed the ban on all 1,090 films that had previously been banned in Chile.

The current age ratings (enacted in 1993) are:

* **TE (Todo Espectador)** – General audience.
* **TE+7 (Inconveniente para menores de 7 años)** – Not suitable for children younger than 7 years.
* **Mayores de 14 años** – Over 14 years old.
* **Mayores de 18 años** – Over 18 years old.

The age ratings may also be supplemented by the following content categories:

* **Contenido educativo** – Educational content.
* **Contenido pornográfico** – Pornographic content.
* **Contenido excesivamente violento** – Excessively violent content.

Pornographic films may only be exhibited at venues licensed for that purpose. Minors are not admitted to films with pornographic or excessively violent content.

### China (French)

China does not have a rating system. Only films that are passed as "suitable for all ages" are released although some exhibitors have introduced informal ratings. A March 2017 effective law on film does require non-violations of the lawful rights and interests of minors (French: mineur) or harming the physical and psychological health of minors. However, in an interview with China Central Television in the same month, the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television's film chief Mr. Zhang Hongsen said it was inaccurate for the media to label the guideline for minors as manual/euphemistic classification and it was a misinterpretation or over-interpretation of the new law.

### Colombia (Spanish)

As of 22 June 2005, the Ministry of Culture issued its new rating system. The classifications are:

* **T**: For general audiences.
* **7**: Advisory.
* **12**: Advisory.
* **15**: Restricted.
* **18**: Restricted.
* **X**: Pornographic content.
* **Prohibited**: Contains elements that incite or advocate crime.

### France (French)

Prior to showing in theatres, a distribution certificate must be obtained from the Ministry of Culture. The Minister will decide which certificate to issue based on a recommendation by the classification of the Centre national du cinéma et de l'image animée (CNC). In some cases, films may be classified as "pornographic films or those containing an incitement to violence" or completely prohibited from screening. A certificate will be granted from the following:

* **TP** (*Tous publics*) – Certificate authorising the screening of the film to all members of the public.
* **-12** – Certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under 12.
* **-16** – Certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under 16.
* **-18** – Certificate prohibiting the screening of the film to minors under 18.
* ***Interdiction*** (prohibition) – Certificate totally prohibiting the screening of the film.

### Hong Kong (French)

Films intended for public exhibition have to be submitted to the Director of Film, Newspaper and Article Administration, who is the Film Censorship Authority (FCA) (French: Autorité de censure cinématographique) under the Ordinance, for approval. Films approved for public exhibition are then either classified or exempted from classification.

Hong Kong ratings administered by the Film Censorship Authority

* **I** – Suitable for all ages. (circle sign).
* **IIA** – Not suitable for children. (square sign).
* **IIB** – Not suitable for young persons and children.
* **III** – Persons aged 18 or above only. (triangle sign).

Of the four levels, Categories I, IIA, and IIB are unrestricted. Only Category III is a restricted category and regulated by the government.

### India (Spanish)

In India, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) (Spanish: Junta Central de Certificación de Películas) is responsible for certifying films meant for public exhibition.

* **U** – Unrestricted public exhibition.
* **UA** – Unrestricted public exhibition, but with parental guidance for children below the age of 12 years.
* **A** – Restricted to adults.
* **S** – Restricted to any special class of persons.

### Indonesia (English)

Motion pictures shown in Indonesia must undergo reviewing by the Indonesian Film Censorship Board. Other than issuing certificates, the LSF/IFCB also reviews and issues permits for film-related advertising, such as movie trailers and posters. LSF has the authority to cut scenes from films. Films passed for exhibition are awarded one of the following classifications:

* **ALL** (*All ages*): All ages.
* **13+**: Suitable for ages 13 and above.
* **17+**: Suitable for ages 17 and above.
* **21+**: Suitable for ages 21 and above.

### Ireland (English)

All films that are exhibited in public or released on a home video format must be submitted for classification to the Irish Film Classification Office (IFCO).

* **G (General)** – Suitable for children of school going age (note: children can be enrolled in school from the age of 4).
* **PG (Parental Guidance)** – Suitable for children over the age of 8. Parental guidance is recommended for children under the age of 12.
* **12A**, **12** – Suitable for viewers of 12 and over. Younger children may be admitted to the film at cinemas if accompanied by an adult; on home video younger viewers are not permitted to purchase/rent the video.
* **15A**, **15** – Suitable for viewers of 15 and over. Younger viewers may be admitted to the film at cinemas if accompanied by an adult; on home video younger viewers are not permitted to purchase/rent the video.
* **16** (*cinema only*) – Suitable for viewers of 16 and over. Younger viewers are not admitted.
* **18** – Suitable only for adults. Viewers under 18 are not admitted at cinemas or permitted to purchase/rent the video.

### Jamaica (English)

Film classification in Jamaica is a requirement of the Cinematograph Act of 1913, which also established the Cinematograph Authority.

* **G (General Audiences)**: Appropriate for all ages.
* **PG** (only applied occasionally).
* **PG-13**: Children 12 years and under must be accompanied by parent/guardian.
* **T-16**: Teenagers 14 & 15 will be admitted in the company of an adult.
* **A-18**: No one under the age of 18 years will be admitted.

### Japan (French)

A Japanese film rating regulator known as Eirin [full-name: French: Comité de gestion de l'éthique cinématographique] has a film classification system under which films are classified into one of four categories. The categories have been in use since 1 May 1998.

* **G**: General, suitable for all ages.
* **PG12**: Parental guidance requested for young people under 12 years.
* **R15+**: No one under 15 admitted.
* **R18+**: No one under 18 admitted.

### Kazakhstan (Dutch)

In Kazakhstan, films are rated by the Committee for Culture of the Ministry for Culture and Information (Dutch: Commissie voor Cultuur van het Ministerie van Cultuur en Informati).

* **К**: Film is allowed for any audience.
* **БА**: Permitted for children over the age of 12 only.
* **Б14**: Supervision by parents required for children the age of 12–13.
* **Е16**: Supervision by parents required for children the age of 12–15.
* **Е18**: For viewers aged over 18.
* **НА**: For viewers aged over 21. Restricted to licensed venues between 10 pm and 6 am local time.

### Kuwait (Portuguese)

In Kuwait, films are rated by the Censor Board Committee (Comitê de Supervisão) under authority of the Ministry of Information (Ministério da Informação). The Committee may sanction edits of or outright ban certain films in order to comply with cultural laws and values of Kuwait. The Ministry of Information originally established an age classifications system for films under decision number #73, article #10 of year 2012. The 2012 system rated films as either for "general audiences" (G) or for "persons aged 16 and above" (16+). Circa 2015, two additional classifications were introduced for films rated as "under 13 need to be accompanied with adults" (PG) or "adults only" (18+). However, by May 2016, the Ministry of Information established a new age classifications system for films under decision number #30 of year 2016. Therefore, as of May 2016, films in Kuwait are rated under the following:

* **E** – Film content is suitable for everyone.
* **PG** – Under 13 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
* **T** – Under 13 are not permitted.
* **18+** – Under 18 are not permitted.

Cinemas are legally obligated to refuse entry to any minor, including infants, under the required age of any film's established age classification.

### Malaysia (English)

Historically, film censorship in Malaysia was carried out by police under the Theatre Ordinance 1908. In 1954 the Film Censorship Board (LPF) was created to censor films distributed across Malaysia in accordance with the Cinematograph Films Act 1952, and later the Film Censorship Act 2002. Malaysia's motion picture rating system was introduced in 1953, initially classifying films either for General Audiences or For Adults Only, and in 1996 these classifications were changed to U and four different 18 categories. In mid-April 2010, the four 18 categories were deprecated, and was simplified to just **18**. In late 2008, the PG13 classification was introduced, which was changed to P13 in 2012.

Upon viewing the board will assign one of three categories to the film:

* Net Pass (Passed Clean [i.e. without cuts])
* Pass With Modification (Passed with Edits/Cuts)
* Not Approved For Shows (Not Approved for Screening)

Should a film be approved, the Board then assigns the film a classification. As of 2012 the ratings are:

* **G** (General) - No age limit.
* **P13** (Guardian) – Parental guidance required for audiences under the age of 13.
* **18** – For audiences aged 18 years old and above.

### Maldives (Spanish)

Film in the Maldives are classified by the National Bureau of Classification (Spanish: Oficina Nacional de Clasificación). Certificates issued are based on the following categories:

* **G** – Suitable for all ages.
* **PG** – Parental guidance.
* **12+** – For ages 12 and above.
* **15+** – Suitable for ages 15 and above.
* **18+** – Suitable for ages 18 and above.
* **18+R** – Suitable for ages 18 and above. Restricted.
* **PU** – For professional use only.

### Malta (English)

As of 2012, films in Malta are classified by the Film Board in accordance with the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts Act. As part of an overhaul in 2013 the "14" and "16" age classifications were replaced by "12A" and "15"; the "PG" rating was redefined while "U", "12" and "18" were retained in their existing form.

If the film is deemed "fit for exhibition" it will be awarded one of the following classifications:

* **U** (Universal) – Suitable for all.
* **PG** (Parental Guidance) – General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.
* **12A** – Suitable for persons of 12 years and over: Provided that persons younger than 12 years may attend only when accompanied by an adult.
* **12** – Suitable only for persons of 12 years and over.
* **15** – Suitable for persons of 15 years and over.
* **18** – Suitable only for persons of 18 years and over.

### Mexico (Spanish)

The General Directorate of Radio, Television and Cinematography (in Spanish, *Dirección General de Radio, Televisión y Cinematografía*) is the issuer of ratings for motion pictures. The RTC is an agency of the Department of State (*Secretaría de Gobernación*). It has its own classification system, as follows:

* **AA** Informative-only rating: Understandable for children under 7 years.
* **A** Information-only rating: For all age groups.
* **B** Information-only rating: For adolescents 12 years and older.
* **B-15** Information-only rating: Not recommended for children under 15.
* **C** Restrictive rating: For adults 18 and older.
* **D** Restrictive rating: Adult movies (legally prohibited to those under 18 years of age).

### Netherlands (Dutch)

In the Netherlands, the Kijkwijzer system is used, which is executed by the Netherlands Institute for the Classification of Audiovisual Media (NICAM). Under Dutch law children are admitted to films carrying an age rating if accompanied by an adult except in the case of "16" and "18" rated films.

* **AL**: All ages.
* **6**: Potentially harmful to children under 6 years.
* **9**: Potentially harmful to children under 9 years.
* **12**: Potentially harmful to children under 12 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 8:00 pm.
* **14**: Potentially harmful to children under 14 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 8:00 pm.
* **16**: Potentially harmful to (and not allowed for) children under 16 years; broadcasting is not allowed before 8:00 pm.
* **18**: Potentially harmful to (and not allowed for) children under 18 years; broadcasting is not allowed before midnight.

There are also six descriptor icons used:

* Violence (Geweld)
* Fear (Angst)
* Sexual Content (Seks)
* Discrimination (Discriminatie)
* Drug and/or Alcohol abuse (Drugs- en/of alcoholmisbruik)
* Bad Language (Grof taalgebruik)

Mostly, these icons are used along with other symbols, displaying if a film contains violence, sexual content, frightening scenes, drug or alcohol abuse, discrimination, or coarse language. These symbols are also used in television channels broadcasting under license issued in the Netherlands (independent from country for which the channel are dedicated).

### New Zealand (English)

The *Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993* gives the Office of Film and Literature Classification the power to classify publications into three categories: unrestricted, restricted, or "objectionable" (banned). With a few exceptions, films, videos, DVDs and restricted computer games must carry a label before being offered for supply or exhibited to the public.

In 2017 the Office of Film and Literature Classification created a special RP18 rating for online content in response to the Netflix television series, *13 Reasons Why*. The new classification reflects concerns raised with 17 and 18 year olds in New Zealand being at a higher risk of suicide. The current ratings are:

* **G**: Anyone can be shown or sold this.
* **PG**: Films and games with a PG label can be sold, hired, or shown to anyone. The PG label means guidance from a parent or guardian is recommended for younger viewers.
* **M**: Films and games with an M label can be sold, hired, or shown to anyone. Films with an M label are more suitable for mature audiences 16 years and over.
* **RP13**: Restricted to persons 13 years and over unless accompanied by a Parent/Guardian.
* **RP16**: Restricted to persons 16 years and over unless accompanied by a Parent/Guardian.
* **RP18**: Restricted to persons 18 years and over unless accompanied by a Parent/Guardian (online content only).
* **R13**: Restricted to persons 13 years and over.
* **R15**: Restricted to persons 15 years and over.
* **R16**: Restricted to persons 16 years and over.
* **R18**: Restricted to persons 18 years and over.
* **R**: Restricted exclusively to a certain audience.

In order for a film or video game to be released in New Zealand, they must:

* Be classified by either the Australian Classification Board in Australia or the BBFC in the United Kingdom before being given with a New Zealand classification rating for public release. If they are being given a classification rating of unrestricted G, PG or M in Australia or the equivalent one in the United Kingdom, it will be cross-rated. However this may not be easy as it seems. New Zealand's treatment of violence is stricter than that of Australia compared to offensive language and sex.

* For Video Games that have been classified as unrestricted G, PG or M from Australia are exempt from being classified in New Zealand. If they have a restricted classification from Australia or the United Kingdom, they'll need to be classified with a New Zealand classification rating before releasing it to the public.

### Nigeria (English)

The National Film and Video Censors Board classifies films, videos, DVDs, and VCDs. Classifications carrying an age rating are legally restricted, although the "15" and "18" classifications do not apply to people below 2 years of age. The categories are:

* **G**: Suitable for viewing by persons of all ages.
* **PG**: Parental Guidance advised.
* **12**: Not suitable for people under the age of 12.
* **12A**: Not suitable for people under the age of 12. A child must be accompanied by an adult to view the film.
* **15**: Not suitable for persons under the age of 15.
* **18**: Not suitable for people under the age of 18.
* **RE**: Films which fall under this category are to be exhibited and distributed only in specially licensed premises.

### Philippines (English)

In the Philippines, motion pictures, along with television programs, are rated by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, a special agency of the Office of the President. As of 2012, the Board uses six classification ratings.

* **G** (General Audiences) – Viewers of all ages are admitted.
* **PG** (Parental Guidance) – Viewers below 13 years old must be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult.
* **R-13** (Restricted-13) – Only viewers who are 13 years old and above can be admitted.
* **R-16** (Restricted-16) – Only viewers who are 16 years old and above can be admitted.
* **R-18** (Restricted-18) – Only viewers who are 18 years old and above can be admitted.
* **X** (Not For Public Exhibition) – "X-rated" films are not suitable for public exhibition.

### Portugal (Portuguese)

Movies are rated in Portugal by the Comissão de Classificação de Espectáculos of the Ministry of Culture. In cinemas the ratings are mandatory (subject to parental guidance) whereas for video releases they are merely advisory, except in the case of pornographic content.Children under the age of 3 were previously prohibited from public film performances, but a special category was introduced for this age group when the classification system was overhauled in 2014. A category for 14-year-olds was also introduced, and the lowest age rating was dropped from 4 years of age to 3. The categories are the following:

* **Para todos os públicos** – For all the public (especially designed for children under 3 years of age).
* **M/3** Passed for viewers aged 3 and older.
* **M/6** Passed for viewers aged 6 and older.
* **M/12** Passed for viewers aged 12 and older.
* **M/14** Passed for viewers aged 14 and older.
* **M/16** Passed for viewers aged 16 and older.
* **M/18** Passed for viewers aged 18 and older.
* **P** Special rating supplementary to the M/18 age rating denoting "pornography".

### Saudi Arabia (Portuguese)

Film classification in Saudi Arabia is administered by the General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) (Portuguese: Comissão Geral de Meios Audiovisuais), after the reintroduction of film theatres in the country as of 2017. The categories are:

* **G**: General – For the general public.
* **PG**: Parental Guidance – Adult supervision recommended for children under the age of 12.
* **PG12**: Parental Guidance 12 – Adult supervision required for children under the age of 12.
* **R12**: Audiences under the age of 12 are prohibited.
* **R15**: Audiences under the age of 15 are prohibited.
* **R18**: Audiences under the age of 18 are prohibited.

### Singapore (English)

Film classification in Singapore was introduced on 1 July 1991 and comes under the jurisdiction of the Board of Film Censors (BFC), currently part of the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). There were three ratings originally: G (General), PG (Parental Guidance) and R (Restricted to 18 years and above). Prior to then films were either approved or effectively banned. Since then, there have been several alterations to the ratings over the years. In September 1991, a Restricted (Artistic) (R(A)) rating was introduced to replaced the previous R-rating so as to allow the screening of certain art-house films which would otherwise have been banned without said rating, with an increased age restriction set at 21 years of age. The R(A) rating has since been replaced by NC16 (No Children under 16), M18 (Mature 18) and R21 (Restricted 21). A PG13 (Parental Guidance 13) rating, introduced in 2011, is the latest rating to be introduced. The G, PG and PG13 ratings are advisory while NC16, M18 and R21 carry age restrictions. Video ratings are mostly the same as the cinema ratings, except only go up to M18. Some titles, such as documentaries, children's programmes and sports programmes may be exempt from classification on video, but all titles must be classified for public theatrical exhibition.

The categories are:

* **G**: General – Suitable for all ages.
* **PG**: Parental Guidance – Suitable for all but parents should guide their young.
* **PG13**: Parental Guidance 13 – Suitable for persons aged 13 and above but parental guidance is advised for children below 13.
* **NC16**: No Children Under 16 – Suitable for persons aged 16 and above.
* **M18**: Mature 18 – Suitable for persons aged 18 and above.
* **R21**: Restricted 21 – Suitable for adults aged 21 and above (restricted to licensed cinemas).

In exceptional cases, a film may be refused classification if it either exceeds the permissible limits of the R21 classification, contains any material that undermines or is likely to undermine public order, or is likely to be prejudicial to national interest.

### South Africa (English)

In South Africa, films are classified by the Film and Publication Board. Distributors and exhibitors are legally compelled to comply with the age ratings. All broadcasters, cinemas and distributors of DVD/video and computer games must comply with the following:

* **A**: Suitable for all.
* **PG**: Parental Guidance
* **7–9PG**: Not suitable for children under the age of 7. Children aged 7–9 years old may not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.
* **10–12PG**: Not suitable for children under the age of 10. Children aged 10–12 years old may not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.
* **13**: Not suitable for children under the age of 13.
* **16**: Not suitable for persons under the age of 16.
* **18**: Not suitable for persons under the age of 18.
* **X18**: No one under 18 admitted; restricted to licensed adult premises.
* **XX**: Must not be distributed or exhibited in public.

There are also sub-descriptors used with some of the ratings:

* **S** for sex.
* **L** for language.
* **V** for violence.
* **P** for prejudice.
* **N** for nudity.
* **H** for horror.
* **D** for substance abuse.
* **SV** for sexual violence.

### South Korea (French)

The Korea Media Rating Board (Comité d'évaluation des vidéos) in Seoul divides licensed films into the following categories:

* **All** (Tous les spectateurs) – Film suitable for all ages.
* **12** (Public de plus de 12 ans) – Film intended for audiences 12 and over. Underage audiences accompanied by a parent or guardian are allowed.
* **15** (Public de plus de 15 ans) – Film intended for audiences 15 and over. Underage audiences accompanied by a parent or guardian are allowed.
* **18** (Les jeunes ne sont pas autorisés) – No one under 18 is allowed to watch this film.
* **Restricted Screening** (dépistage limité) – Film needs a certain restriction in screening or advertisement as it is considered a highly bad influence to universal human dignity, social value, good customs or national emotion due to excessive expression of nudity, violence, social behavior, etc. (technically not an age restriction but films with this rating may only be screened at "adults only" theatres, with the age of majority set at 19).

### Spain (Spanish)

All films to be commercially released in Spain in any medium must be submitted to the ICAA (Instituto de Cinematografía y Artes Audiovisuales - Cinematography and Audiovisual Arts Institute). Classifications are advisory except for X-rated films, which are restricted to specially licensed venues. A supplementary classification, "Especialmente Recomendada para la Infancia" (Especially recommended for children), is sometimes appended to the lowest two classifications. Another supplementary classification, "Especialmente recomendada para el fomento de la igualdad de género" (Especially recommended for the promotion of gender equality), is sometimes appended to any of the classifications except the last one.

* **A(i)** – General admission.
* **7(i)** – Not recommended for audiences under 7.
* **12** – Not recommended for audiences under 12.
* **16** – Not recommended for audiences under 16.
* **18** – Not recommended for audiences under 18.
* **X** – Prohibited for audiences under 18 (may only be shown in premises where adult films are screened).

### Switzerland (French)

Switzerland has adopted France's Autorégulation volontaire de l'industrie cinématographique (Voluntary Self-Regulation of the Film Industry, FSK). Under Swiss law, however, children up to two years younger than the age recommendations will be admitted if accompanied by a person invested with parental authority.

### Taiwan (French)

From 1994 until 2015, the Government Information Office (GIO) classified films into four categories (General Audience/Protected/Parental Guidance/Restricted) pursuant to its issued Regulations Governing the Classification of Motion Pictures of the Republic of China (Mesures pour la classification des films in French): The "Parental Guidance" rating previously prohibited viewing by children under the age of 12 and required adolescents aged 12–17 to be accompanied by an adult. In 2015, the "Parental Guidance" rating was further divided into two categories: one that prohibits children under the age of 12 and one that prohibits adolescents under the age of 15.

* **0+**: Universel (général) (General Audience) – Viewing is permitted for audiences of all ages.
* **6+**: Niveau de protection (protection) (Protected) – Viewing is not permitted for children under 6; children between 6 and 11 shall be accompanied and given guidance by parents, teachers, seniors, or adult relatives or friends.
* **12+**: Counseling de la douzième année (Supplémentaire 12) (Parental Guidance 12) – Viewing is not permitted for children under 12.
* **15+**: Tutorat de la quinzième année (Supplément 15) (Parental Guidance 15) – Viewing is not permitted for those under 15.
* **18+**: Niveau restreint (limité) (Restricted) – Viewing is not permitted for those under 18.

### Thailand (English)

A motion picture rating system was proposed in the Film and Video Act of 2007, and was passed on December 20, 2007 by the Thai military-appointed National Legislative Assembly, replacing laws which had been in place since 1930. The draft law was met with resistance from the film industry and independent filmmakers. Activists had hoped for a less-restrictive approach; however, films are still subject to censorship, or can be banned from release altogether if the film is deemed to "undermine or disrupt social order and moral decency, or might impact national security or the pride of the nation".

The ratings were put into effect in August 2009. They are as follows:

* **P** – Educational.
* **G** – General audience.
* **13** – Suitable for viewers aged 13 years and over.
* **15** – Suitable for viewers aged 15 years and over.
* **18** – Suitable for viewers aged 18 years and over.
* **20** – Content is unsuitable for viewers aged under 20.
* **Banned** – Films that are not allowed to screen publicly in Thailand.

### Turkey (Portuguese)

In Turkey, movies to be shown in cinemas are rated by the Evaluation and Classification Board of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (Portuguese: Ministério da Cultura e Turismo). All films to be made commercially available must be classified, except in the case of educational films which are labeled as "for educational purposes" instead. The board also has the power to refuse classification in extreme cases (producers and distributors can submit an edited version of a movie to the board but edited versions may also be rejected if still deemed inappropriate); in this case, the movie will be banned with the exception of special artistic activities like fairs, festivals, feasts and carnivals.

* Audiência Geral – General audience.
* **6A** – Viewers under the age of 6 may watch with accompanying family members.
* **6+** – Suitable for viewers aged 6 and over.
* **10A** – Viewers under the age of 10 may watch with accompanying family members.
* **10+** – Suitable for viewers aged 10 and over.
* **13A** – Viewers under the age of 13 may watch with accompanying family members.
* **13+** – Suitable for viewers aged 13 and over.
* **16+** – Suitable for viewers aged 16 and over.
* **18+** – Suitable for viewers aged 18 and over.

In addition to the age ratings, content is also assessed for violence/horror, sexuality and negative examples i.e. drugs, vulgar and slang language.

### United Arab Emirates (Portuguese)

A film and video rating system was introduced in November 2017, and was established commercially as of February 2018 by the National Media Council (Portuguese: Conselho Nacional de Mídia).

* **G** – For public viewing, suitable for all age groups.
* **PG** – For public viewing, with adult supervision.
* **PG13** – Persons below 13 allowed with adult supervisions.
* **PG15** – Persons below 15 allowed with adult supervisions.
* **15+** – Ages 15 and above only.
* **18+** – Ages 18 and above only.

### United Kingdom (English)

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) classifies films to be publicly exhibited in the United Kingdom, although statutory powers remain with local councils which can overrule any of the BBFC's decisions. Since 1984, the BBFC also classifies films made commercially available through a home video format. If the BBFC refuses a classification this effectively amounts to a ban (although local councils retain the legal right to overturn it in the case of cinema exhibition). The BBFC's regulatory powers do not extend to the Internet, so a film they have banned on physical media can still be made available via streaming media/video on demand. Videos designed to inform, educate or instruct or concerned with sport, religion or music are exempt from classification; exempt films may be marked as "E", but this is not an official label.

The current BBFC system is:

* **U (Universal – Suitable for all)** – A U-rated film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over.
* **PG (Parental Guidance)** – General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. A PG-rated film should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older.
* **12A** /  **12 (Suitable for 12 years and over)** – Films classified 12A and video works classified 12 contain material that is not generally suitable for children aged under 12. No one younger than 12 may see a 12A-rated film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult. No one younger than 12 may rent or buy a 12 rated video work.
* **15 (Suitable only for 15 years and older)** – No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15-rated film at the cinema or buy/rent a 15-rated video.
* **18 (Suitable only for adults)** – No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18-rated film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18-rated video.
* **R18 (To be shown only in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults only)** – The R18 category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. R18-rated video works may not be supplied by mail order.

Older video works still in circulation may still carry the deprecated **Uc** label, classifying the work as "Especially suitable for pre-school children".

### United States (English)

In the United States, film classification is a voluntary process with the ratings issued by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) via the Classification and Rating Administration (CARA). The system was established in 1968, but the version listed below is the most recent revision, having been in effect since 1990. An unrated film is often informally denoted by "NR" in newspapers and so forth.

* **G** (General Audiences) – All ages admitted.
* **PG** (Parental Guidance Suggested) – Some material may not be suitable for children.
* **PG-13** (Parents Strongly Cautioned) – Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
* **R** (Restricted) – Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
* **NC-17** (Adults Only) – No one 17 and under admitted.

### Venezuela (Spanish)

Age ratings are divided into several categories. The age that corresponds to the category and the level of enforcement is defined by municipality ordinances.

In the San Cristóbal municipality the following ratings apply:

* **AA** – Aimed at children under 12 years of age.
* **A** – Suitable for all ages.
* **B** – Suitable for audiences aged 12 years or older.
* **C** – Suitable for audiences aged 16 years or older.
* **D** – Suitable for audiences aged 18 years or older.

In the Baruta municipality the following ratings apply:

* **A** – Suitable for all ages.
* **B** – Suitable for audiences aged 12 years or older.
* **C** – Suitable for audiences aged 16 years or older.
* **D** – Suitable for adults.

In the Maracaibo municipality children under the age of two are not admitted to performances and the ratings are enforced:

* **A** – Suitable for all ages.
* **B** – Suitable for audiences aged 14 years or older.
* **C** – Suitable for audiences aged 18 years or older.

### Vietnam (English)

All theatrical releases are screened by the Cinema Department of the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Travel of Vietnam to ensure suitability for public viewing. Regardless of the rating, some scenes may be altered or removed to comply with regulations. The classification was revised in January 2017, replacing the previous rating system.

* **U** (Universal) – Suitable for all ages.
* **C13** – Persons under age 13 not admitted.
* **C16** – Persons under age 16 not admitted.
* **C18** – Persons under age 18 not admitted.

Unlike the previous rating system, the current rating system does not have parental guidance and ratings other than **U** are considered to be restricted.

## Television content rating system

Television content rating systems are systems for evaluating the content and reporting the suitability of television programs for children, teenagers, or adults. Many countries have their own television rating system and countries' rating processes vary by local priorities. Programs are rated by the organization that manages the system, the broadcaster, or the content producers.

A rating is usually set for each individual episode of a television series. The rating can change per episode, network, rerun, and country. As such, program ratings are usually not meaningful unless when and where the rating is used is mentioned.

### Argentina (Spanish)

In Argentina, the content rating system is identical to those used by the local film bureau.

* **Apto para todo público (ATP)** (English: suitable for all audiences) – programmes may contain mild violence, language and mature situations;
* **Apto para mayores de 13 años (SAM 13)** (English: suitable for ages 13 and up) – programmes may contain mild to moderate language and mild violence and sexual references;
* **Apto para mayores de 16 años (SAM 16)** (English: suitable for ages 16 and up) – programmes may contain more intensive violence and coarse language, partial nudity and moderate sexual references;
* **Apto para mayores de 18 años (SAM 18)** (English: suitable for ages 18 and up) – programmes contain graphic violence, coarse language and strong sexual references.

Starting from September 2010, it is compulsory for broadcasters to show the plaque **Comienza el horario apto para todo público** (English: Start time of suitable for all age schedule) and **Finaliza el horario apto para todo público** (English: End time of suitable for all age schedule) at 6:00 a.m. or 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. respectively. In addition, the plaque **Atención: Contenido no apto para niños, niñas y adolescentes** (English: Warning: Content not suitable for children and adolescents) is shown before news broadcasts.

### Armenia (Portuguese)

A television content rating system for Armenia was introduced in June 2006 (first tested in Yerevan in January 2006). The Armenian ratings are as follows:

**Range specific**

* **Y** – suitable for ages 0–7;
* **Y7** – suitable for ages 7–16;
* **GA** – suitable for general audiences;
* **TW** – suitable for children ages 9 and up;
* **T** – suitable for children ages 12 and up;
* **A** – suitable only for adults ages 18 and up.

**Age specific**

* **EC** – suitable for ages 2 and up;
* **E** – suitable for ages 5 and up;
* **E9** – suitable for ages 9 and up;
* **T** – suitable for ages 12 and up;
* **M** – suitable for ages 16 and up;
* **AO** – suitable for ages 17 and up.

### Australia (English)

Commercial television networks in Australia are required to comply with the Australian Commercial Television Code of Practice, which is governed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority with Free TV Australia mediating between the networks and the ACMA, as well as handling viewer complaints.

Classifications for each programme broadcast on TV, are decided upon by trained classification officers at each network.

If viewers believe a network has breached the TV Code of Practice (an incorrect classification have been given, for example), viewers can submit a complaint to Free TV Australia, who then submit that complaint to the network. If viewers are dissatisfied with the result, they may then refer their complaint to the ACMA for an investigation.

#### Child-specific ratings

These time zones are further governed by the Australian Commercial Television Code of Practice, over and above the commercial Code of Practice. Both are similar to the G and PG classifications respectively in terms of allowable content, but are specifically targeted at children, whereas G specifies programming content that is suitable for all audiences, but may not necessarily be of interest to children. Until 2020, commercial free-to-air stations were obligated to broadcast a set number of hours of content per year. These quotas were removed in October 2020, leaving broadcasters with no requirement to air programmes specifically aimed at children.

* C - Children
* P - Preschoolers

#### Standard ratings

Classifications are intended to be equivalent to the Australian Classification Board (ACB) classifications of the same name. They're usually presented with the same shape and sometimes colour as their ACB counterparts.

From December 2015, the ACMA introduced sweeping changes to the ratings system for commercial networks. Among them were allowing M and MA15+ programmes to air an hour earlier then they were previously allowed, from 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm respectively, PG programmes can air all day, dissolving the AV15+ classification, as well as changes to when adverts with higher classifications programme can air.

Networks are still getting used to these changes and it will be a gradual change, with many programmes already classified and scheduled on stations weeks ahead, in accordance with the old code. The Seven Network, Nine Network and Network Ten are continuing this trend.

* G - General
* PG - Parental Guidance Recommended
* M - Mature
* MA15+ - Mature Accompanied
* AV15+ - Mature Accompanied (Adult Violence) **No longer used**

#### **Adult "Pay Per View" only**

* R18+ - Restricted R18+
* X18+ - Restricted X18+
* E - Exempt

R18+ and X18+ restricted classifications are not permitted for free-to-air broadcast in Australia.

Many R18+ movies on DVD/Blu-ray are often edited on Free TV/cable networks, to secure an MA15+ classification or lower. Some movies that were classified R18+ on DVD have since been aired on Australian TV with an MA15+ classification.

The two government-owned TV networks, ABC and SBS, are not bound by the same regulations as their commercial counterparts, and are instead each bound by their own Codes of Practice. The guidelines provided by these Codes are similar but not identical to the Codes of Practice for commercial stations. For example, SBS refers to the rating MAV15+ instead of AV15+, while ABC does not use the AV/MAV rating at all; instead programs rated MA15+ must not start before 9:30 p.m., instead of 9:00 p.m.. While the ABC recognizes the G rating, its code of practice does not require that it display its classification symbol on-air in respect to G-rated programming.

Pay television networks also have a different system to the free-to-air networks. In general, all content on pay TV must still be given one of the above ratings; however, there are not usually restrictions on the time of day any particular programming can be broadcast. There is no R18+ rating for pay TV, but its use is strictly limited to special interest channels. FOXTEL, a pay TV company, has a parental lock-out system which can be programmed by parents to stop children from seeing certain programmes. In 2009, the system malfunctioned, allowing children access to violent TV shows and films. The restrictions on R18+ rated programming have been increased since then, and those programmes can now only be shown on the two adult channels.

#### Consumer advice

Consumer advice is compulsory for all MA15+ and one-off programmes. As well as very short series classified M or higher (such as feature films, miniseries and documentaries). Commercial networks have been providing consumer advice to all PG and M programmes anyway. As of 8 February 2019, the Nine Network, the Seven Network, Network 10 and SBS along with regional networks Prime7, GWN7, WIN Television, NBN Television no longer uses full-screen and voiced-over boards, before the beginning of a programme. Instead opting for a small text box in the bottom right-hand corner (Nine) and top left-hand corner (SBS, WIN, GWN7, Prime7, Seven & 10), while ABC and Foxtel continue to use full-screen and voiced-over boards before the start of a programme.

Consumer advice takes the form of a full-screen written and verbal announcement at the start of the programme, announcing the classification as well as listing the type & strength and/or frequency of any classifiable element. In addition when a programme carries consumer advice, appropriate abbreviations are displayed along with the classification symbol after each commercial break. They also usually appear in programming guides, usually in lower case to distinguish from primary classifications. In general, these abbreviations are as follows:

* A – used for programs with adult themes or medical procedures.

* V – used for programs depicting violence;

* L – used for programs coarse language;

* S – used for programs depicting simulated sex scenes and/or references;

* H – used for programs containing horror or supernatural themes;

* D – used for programs with drug references and/or use;

* N – used for programs containing nudity;

For violence, coarse language and sex scenes, the intensity and/or frequency is mentioned in front of the consumer advice. These include: "mild", "stylised", "some", "frequent" or "strong". Example: "strong sex scenes".

### Brazil (Portuguese)

A television content rating system in Brazil was implemented following a consultation in 2006. Since then, the television networks themselves rate the shows, while the advisory rating (Portuguese: *Classificação Indicativa*) judges the content to guarantee that the rating is appropriate for that specific show. On broadcast networks, where the system is mandatory, the ratings are also translated in Brazilian Sign Language, and may also carry content descriptors. The icons must be shown at the start of each block of the show, and their respective promos.

All rating is advisory unlike films. The Brazilian content rating system utilizes age-specific classifications (with the exception of L-rated programming), and consist of the following:

* **Livre para todos os públicos** – Content is suitable for all audiences
* **Não recomendado para menores de 10 anos** – Content suitable for viewers over the age of 10.
* **Não recomendado para menores de 12 anos** – Content suitable for viewers over the age of 12.
* **Não recomendado para menores de 14 anos** – Content suitable for viewers over the age of 14.
* **Não recomendado para menores de 16 anos** – Content suitable for viewers over the age of 16.
* **Não recomendado para menores de 18 anos** – Content suitable for viewers over the age of 18.

### Canada

The Canadian TV Classification System was created in late 1997 for English-language programs to use in conjunction with the V-chip (by this point, Canadian viewers were used to seeing ratings attached to U.S. programming delivered via cable and over-the-air reception). The upper-right corner of symbols are shaped like the corner of a maple leaf, as is used in the national flag. The icons are intended to be shown once an hour lasting 15 seconds, although in the case of longer programs that do not start on the hour, some broadcasters show the rating at the start and at the top of each subsequent clock hour, while others show the rating at the start and again precisely one hour later. However, there are some networks like Global that only display the television rating at the beginning of the show. The icons are displayed in the upper-left corner and the size should be a minimum of 52 scan lines tall.

Additionally, should a program contain content potentially unsuitable for some viewers, such as violence, coarse language, or nudity, members of the self-regulating Canadian Broadcast Standards Council (which does not include the CBC, although it still uses such warnings) are required to air a disclaimer at the beginning of the program and at the end of each commercial break, advising viewer discretion (such disclaimers are only required for the first hour if airing after 9:00 p.m.). This disclaimer is technically required even if the final commercial break comes immediately before the closing credits, and some (but not all) channels in fact observe this.

Notably, the television rating given may depend on the level of cable and satellite, or if the program is broadcast over-the-air. Also, television ratings are generally considered more restrictive than movie ratings.

#### Outside Quebec (English)

The Canadian rating system is as follows:

* **Exempt** – Shows which are exempt from ratings (such as news and sports programming) will not display an on-screen rating at all.
* **C** – Programming is intended for younger children under the age of 8 years. No profanity or sexual content of any level allowed. Might contain occasional comedic, unrealistic depictions of violence.
* **C8** – Suitable for children ages 8+. Low level violence and fantasy horror is allowed. No foul language is allowed, but occasional "socially offensive and discriminatory" language is allowed if in the context of the story. No sexual content of any level allowed.
* **G** – Suitable for general audiences. Programming suitable for the entire family with mild violence, and mild profanity and/or censored language.
* **PG** – Parental guidance. Moderate violence and moderate language is allowed, as is brief nudity and sexual references if important to the context of the story. Some content may not be suitable for children under the age of 8 and parental supervision is recommended for children aged 8–13.
* **14+** – Programming intended for viewers ages 14 and older. May contain strong violence and strong language, and depictions of sexual activity as long as they are within the context of a story. Parents are strongly cautioned to exercise discretion in permitting viewing by pre-teens and early teens without parent/guardian supervision.
* **18+** – Programming intended for viewers ages 18 and older. May contain explicit violence, extreme language, and sexual activity. Programming with this rating cannot air before the watershed (9:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.).

#### Quebec ratings (French)

French-language broadcasters use a rating system that is virtually identical to the provincial film rating system, with one additional category (8+):

* **G:Général** (general) – appropriate for all ages and must contain little or no violence and little to no sexual content.
* **8+ ans** – appropriate for children 8 and up may contain with little violence, language, and little to no sexual situations;
* **13+ ans** – suitable for children 13 and up and may contain with moderate violence, language, and some sexual situations;
* **16+ ans** – recommended for children over the age of 16 and may contain with strong violence, strong language, and strong sexual content;
* **18+ ans** – recommended to be viewed by adults and may contain extreme violence and graphic sexual content. It is mostly used for 18+ movies and pornography.
* An **E** rating (no rating will appear on screen) is given to exempt programming, in the same classes used for English Canadian programming above.

### Chile (Spanish)

The (National Association of Television [es]) devised a content rating system in 1993.[

#### Child specific

* **I** Infantil (English: *for children*) – programmes suitable for all children;
* **I7** Infantil para mayores de 7 años – programmes recommended for children ages 7 or older;
* **I10** Infantil para mayores de 10 años – programmes recommended for children ages 10 or older;
* **I12** Infantil para mayores de 12 años – programmes recommended for children and teens ages 12 or older.

#### Standard ratings

* **F** Familiar (*family*) – programmes suitable for a general audience, with content appropriate for all ages;
* **R** Responsabilidad compartida (*shared responsibility*) – programmes may have content not suitable for children under 12 not accompanied by an adult;
* **A** Adulto (*adult*) – programmes suitable for adult audiences only (ages 18 or older), may contain coarse language, and sexual or explicit situations (used after 10 p.m. local time), access to these programmes is locked by a personal password.

### Colombia (Spanish)

Since 1997, Colombian television networks are required to specify programmes within dubbed *family* and *adult* fringes, and must display a notice signifying the audience, both visually and in narration, the minimum age required to watch the programme, if it contains sexual or violent content, and if parental company is needed at the beginning of every programme. The networks must also air an 'institutional message' daily at 21:00, inviting children 12 years of age or less to "not to stay exposed to contents which have no essentially child[-oriented] nature." A message must be broadcast at 22:10, Monday through Friday, (22:30 Saturdays and Sundays) stating to viewers that the adult fringe has started. Most networks opt to display a scrolling text message instead.

The ratings are as follows:

* **Todos** (*all audiences*) – daily, from the hours of 07:00–21:30;
* **Infantil** (*children*) – Monday through Friday from 16:00–17:00, and Saturdays and Sundays from 08:00–10:00;
* **Familiar** (*family*) – Monday to Friday from 07:00–16:00 and 17:00–22:10, and Saturdays and Sundays 07:00–08:00 and 10:00–22:30, respectively.
* **Adultos** (adult audiences) – Programming dubbed with this classification run through the remaining time slots not specified by the *Infantil*and *Familiar* fringes.

Pornography is prohibited from being transmitted over the air in Colombia, even in the adult fringes.

### Ecuador (Spanish)

Article 65 of the *Communications Law* of Ecuador presents the following classification:

* **A:** *Apto para todo público* (Suitable for all age groups). It can be transmitted at any time, especially in the **"FAMILIAR"** (FAMILY), from 6:00 to 18:00.
* **B:** *Apto para todo público, con vigilancia de una persona adulta* (Suitable for all age groups, with supervision of an adult). Under 12 needs an adult. It can be transmitted at any time, especially in **"RESPONSABILIDAD COMPARTIDA"** (SHARED RESPONSIBILITY), from 18:00 to 22:00; but not during *FAMILIAR*.
* **C:** *Apto solo para personas adultas* (Suitable only for adults). It can be transmitted only during the hours of **"ADULTOS"** (ADULT), from 22:00 to 6:00.

The classification to which belongs each programme will be arranged by the *Consejo de Regulación y Desarrollo de la Información y Comunicación* (Regulatory and Development Council of Information and Communication) depending on the parameters which are considered relevant.

### El Salvador (Spanish)

The *Dirección de Espectáculos Públicos, Radio y Televisión* (Direction of Public Shows, Radio and Television), entity attached to the *Ministerio de Gobernación y Desarrollo Territorial* (Ministry of Interior and Territorial Development), regulates the contents exhibited in Salvadoran television.

* **A:** *Apto para todo público* (Suitable for all age groups). It can be transmitted at any time.
* **B:** *Apto para mayores de 12 años* (Suitable for over 12 years). It can be transmitted at any time.
* **C:** *Apto para mayores de 15 años* (Suitable for over 15 years). It can be transmitted at any time.
* **D:** *Apto para mayores de 18 años* (Suitable for over 18 years). It can be transmitted at any time.
* **E:** *Apto para mayores de 21 años* (Suitable for over 21 years). It can be transmitted from 22:00 to 5:00.

### France (French)

A content rating system in French is regulated by the *Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel* (CSA). Each rating icon is translucent and, as of November 2012, is shown for the whole duration of the show.

* If no rating appears, it is most likely appropriate for all ages.
* **Déconseillé aux moins de 10 ans** (English: *not recommended for children under 10*) – not allowed in children's television series;
* **Déconseillé aux moins de 12 ans** (English: *not recommended for children under 12*) – not allowed air before 10:00 p.m. (some channels and programs are subject to exception);
* **Déconseillé aux moins de 16 ans** (English: *not recommended for children under 16*) – not allowed air before 10:30 p.m. (some channels and programs are subject to exception);
* **Déconseillé aux moins de 18 ans** (English: *not recommended for persons under 18*) – allowed only between midnight and 5 a.m.

There initially was no ratings system for French television. In March 1961, following the broadcast of a film where a female nude was briefly visible, the "white square" was introduced. A white square, replaced by a white rectangle in 1964, was displayed in the corner of the screen. An off-screen voice warned at the beginning of the program that it was unsuitable for all audiences. This system continued until 1996 when the *Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel* replaced it with a system of five pictograms, indicating the suitability of the program. This system was replaced by the current system on 18 November 2002.

### Greece & Cyprus (Portuguese)

A new content rating system in Greece & Cyprus was introduced on 30 September 2019. The system is now associated with the age of viewers and has new visual symbols (replacing rhombus, circle, triangle, square and cross symbols), however, there are no mature-accompanied ratings compared to the previous system. The ratings are compulsory and are displayed and verbally announced at the beginning of each broadcast. These provisions are enforced by the Greek National Council for Radio and Television (ESR) (Portuguese: Conselho Nacional Grego para Rádio e Televisão).

* K – suitable for all ages
* 8 – suitable for ages 8 and up (allowed only 30 minutes after the kid-friendly zone)
* 12 – suitable for ages 12 and up (allowed only between 9:30 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., or between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. during Fridays, Saturdays and school holidays)
* 16 – suitable for ages 16 and up (allowed only between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.)
* 18 – suitable for ages 18 and up (allowed only between 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.)

Also, programmes suitable for ages 12 and up will be accompanied by a special word marker identifying their content, which is divided into the following four categories:

* VIOLÊNCIA (English: *VIOLENCE*): The programme contains scenes of violence.
* SEXO (English: *SEX*): The programme contains sex scenes.
* uso de substâncias (English: *USE OF SUBSTANCES*): The programme contains scenes of drug use and other addictive substances.
* FRASEOLOGIA INADEQUADA (English: *INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE*): The programme contains inappropriate language.

### Hong Kong (French)

The Hong Kong television rating system is since by generic code of television programmes standard of the Broadcasting Ordinance (Cap.562) on 11 December 1995. The current ratings are:

* **I** - For general audiences.
* **PG** (surveillance parentale recommandée) – programmes are unsuitable for children, parental guidance is recommended; programmes that are classified as 'PG' should not be broadcast between 4:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. every day, as this is a watershed devised for family viewing.
* **M** (mature) – programmes are recommended for adult viewers above the age of 18, only allowed to be shown between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

### India (Spanish)

Sample censor certificate issued by Central Board of Film Certification(CBFC) (Spanish: Junta Central de Certificación de Películas) that has to be displayed for 10 seconds before exhibition of a 'theatrical film', and for 15 seconds before exhibition of a 'video film'. "V/U" infers that the film is sanctioned for video exhibition, and has been given a rating of "Unrestricted Public Exhibition".In February 2013, in the wake of controversy over suspension of exhibition of the film *Vishwaroopam*, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting constituted a panel under the Chairmanship of Justice (Retd.) Mukul Mudgal to examine issues of film certification under the Cinematograph Act 1952. One of the terms of reference for the committee is to examine "the requirement of special categories of certification for the purposes of broadcasting on television channels and radio stations." But, the committee had not made any recommendations on this important matter.

The current classifications of films in India are as follows:

* **A / U** – unrestricted public exhibition;
* **A/V / U/A** – unrestricted public exhibition, but with a caution regarding parental guidance to those under 12 years of age;
* **Y / A** – public exhibition restricted to adults 18 years of age and older only;
* **S** – public exhibition restricted to members of a profession or a class of persons (e.g. doctors etc.)—very rare.

### Indonesia (English)

The Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) regulate broadcast television content that classifies television programme into several classifications:

* **ALL** - All ages – suitable for general audiences over the age of 2 years;
* **P** - Pre-school – suitable for pre-school children from ages 2 through 6;
* **C** - Children - suitable for children from ages 7 through 12;
* **T** - Teenager – suitable for teens from ages 13 through 17;
* **PG** - Parental Guidance – suitable for children or teens with parental control, but this classification does not stand alone and accompanied the **P**, **A** and **R** ratings, become:
	+ **P-BO** – suitable for pre-school children from ages 2 through 6 with guidance of parents
	+ **A-BO** – suitable for children from ages 7 through 12 with guidance of parents
	+ **R-BO** – suitable for teens from ages 13 through 17 with guidance of parents;
* **M** - Mature – suitable for viewers over 18 and older. Programmes with this rating are aired from 10.00 PM to 03.00 AM.

### Israel (Portuguese)

* **G**: General Audiences. Anyone, regardless of age, can watch the programme.
* **12+**: Suitable for children 12 and over only.
* **15+**: Suitable for teens 15 and over only.
* **18+**: Suitable for adults 18 and over only.
* **E**: Exempt from classification. This rating is usually applied to live broadcasts.

### Malaysia (English)

One of the official logos are displayed before TV programs aired on local stations and cinematic films in Malaysia to indicate its rating.
The classifications are as follows:

* **G** - General – No age limit. Can be broadcast anytime.
* **P13** - Viewers under 13 years of age need parental/guardian supervision while viewing. Can be broadcast anytime, but some elements may only be broadcast at night.
* **18** – For viewers 18 and above. Cannot be broadcast before 10:00 PM.

### Mexico (Spanish)

The classification system of television programmes in Mexico is almost equivalent to that of the movie rating system of the country, and consists of the following:

* **AA** – appropriate for all ages, mostly for children (can be broadcast anytime);
* **A** – appropriate for all ages (some profanity, sexual references, violence or crude humour);
* **B** – designed for ages 12 and older, may contain some sexual situations, mild violence, and mild language (allowed only between 16:00 and 05:59);
* **B-15** – designed for ages 15 and up, slightly more intensive than the 'A' and 'B' ratings (allowed only between 19:00 and 05:59);
* **C** – designed to be viewed by adults aged 18 or older, generally more intensive content (allowed only between 21:00 and 05:59);
* **D** – designed to be viewed only by adults aged 18 or older, contains extreme content matter (allowed only between midnight and 05:00);

### Netherlands (Dutch)

The television rating system in the Netherlands was created in 2001 by the *Dutch Institute for the Classification of Audiovisual Media* (NICAM) and is known as **Kijkwijzer** (ViewingGuide or WatchWiser). The same rating systems are used for both television programmes and films, and serve partly as guidelines (Programmes with the classification 12, 14 and 16 years may only be broadcast from 8pm and with the classification 18 years from midnight. Cinemas and theaters in the country cannot provide films with the classification 16 years to people under the age of 16). They are the same as Dutch film ratings.

The following age ratings apply:

* – All Ages (Alle leeftijden)
* – Watch out with children under 6 (Let op met kinderen tot 6 jaar)
* – Watch out with children under 9 (Let op met kinderen tot 9 jaar)
* – Watch out with children under 12 (Let op met kinderen tot 12 jaar)
* – Watch out with children under 14 (Let op met kinderen tot 14 jaar)
* – Watch out with children under 16 (Let op met kinderen tot 16 jaar)
* – Watch out with children under 18 (Let op met kinderen tot 18 jaar)

There are also six descriptor icons used:

* Violence (Geweld)
* Fear (Angst)
* Sexual Content (Seks)
* Discrimination (Discriminatie)
* Drug and/or Alcohol abuse (Drugs- en/of alcoholmisbruik)
* Bad Language (Grof taalgebruik)

### New Zealand (English)

On 1 May 2020, New Zealand realigned its television content rating system to a common system for free-to-air TV, pay TV and on-demand services:

* **G**: Approved for General viewing.
* **PG**: Parental Guidance recommended for young viewers.
* **M**: Suitable for Mature audiences 16 years and over.
* **16**: People under 16 years should not view.
* **18**: People under 18 years should not view.

On free to air television, programmes classified M can be broadcast between 9am and 3pm only on school days as designated by the Ministry of Education, as well as between 7:30pm and 5:00am the following morning. Programmes classified 16 can only be broadcast after the 8:30pm watershed, while programmes classified 18 can only be broadcast after 9:30pm.

On pay television where content filtering is not available; programmes classified 18 can only be broadcast between 8:00pm and 6:00am the following day, and between 9am and 3pm on school days. If content filtering is available, programmes classified 18 can be broadcast at any time. Explicit adult sex programmes classified 18 may screen only on premium channels.

The following descriptor codes may be added for programmes rated PG or higher:

* **C**: Content may offend
* **L**: Language may offend
* **V**: Contains violence
* **S**: Sexual content may offend

### Peru (Spanish)

The age rating system in Peru was introduced in 2005 by the then-President Alejandro Toledo and came into force for both radio and television broadcasts. Currently, the only free-to-air channels advising their audiences about the rating system are ATV, NexTV and La Tele, since most channels adopted their own system since 2009, starting with América Televisión.

The ratings for television programmes are available on some Peruvian channels. The rating system used in Peru is listed below.

* Apt - Apto para todo público
* 14 - Apto para mayores de catorce años
* 18 - Apto para mayores de dieciocho años

### Philippines (English)

In the Philippines, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, commonly known as MTRCB, implements and regulates local television content rating systems. In 1979, it only had implemented two television ratings: "General Viewership" (GV) later renamed (General Patronage/GP) in 1995 and "Parental Guidance" (PG), in the mid-1990s up until from now on, some advisories are simply written on the upper left side or at the lower right side of the television screen.

On 6 October 2011, in order to encourage parents to supervise and be responsible with their children in watching television, the MTRCB revamped its rating system, implementing a three-tiered system:

* G - General Patronage
* PG - Parental Guidance
* SPG - Strong Parental Guidance

The new ratings was originally to have been a four-tiered system, composed of G (General Patronage), PG (Parental Guidance), SPG (Strong Parental Guidance), and M, but some time before the implementation of the new system, the "M" rating was dropped.

The new ratings system is similar to the old one, but the look and the ratings themselves was completely revamped. All of these were only been implemented on Free to-Air Television stations. The new system consists of a new full-screen advisory of the programme's rating which is played before each programme, whatever the rating of such programme is, except in the case of programmes with SPG rating, wherein the rating must be aired twice (before the start of the programme and after each commercial break. e.g. in the middle part of the programme). A rating logo then appears at the bottom right of the screen during a programme if it was rated as such. Sometimes, when annotations are to be put and it takes the place of the logo, then it has to be put on the upper left side of the screen, opposite the logo of the TV station.

On 9 February 2012, the SPG rating was implemented, which utilizes at least one of the following content descriptors:

* **T** for themes,
* **L** for *language*
* **V** (for programs in foreign language) or **K** (for programs in vernacular language) for violence,
* **S** for sex.
* **H** for *horror*, and
* **D** for drugs

The SPG rating was first broadcast on the film *Cinco* which was aired in ABS-CBN, where it had its old advisory.

### Portugal (Portuguese)

For a long time, the only existing regulation on Portuguese television was that programmes with potentially shocking or harmful content could air only between 10:30pm and 6am and with a red circular marker on the top-right corner of the screen indicating it was for audiences aged 16 and over.

In 2006, all free-to-air networks decided to complement this rule with a shared, more detailed rating system for TV shows:

* Todos (suitable for all)
* 10, Acompanhamento Parental (for spectators aged 10 or over; parental guidance required for children under 10)
* 12, Acompanhamento Parental (for spectators aged 12 or over; parental guidance required for children under 12)
* 16 (for spectators aged 16 or over; not suitable for children)

These logos must be shown during 10 seconds in the beginning of any programme and after every break. If a programme is rated 16, it can only be broadcast between 10:30pm and 6am. However, most cable channels in Portugal use the Spanish classification system.

### Singapore (English)

Singapore has adopted the use of TV Ratings from 21 October 2011. They consist of PG and PG13 ratings for Free-to-Air TV and NC16 and M18 ratings in addition to the PG and PG13 ratings for Pay TV channels. For Free-to-Air TV, the shows rated PG may be aired anytime while PG13 should air between 10pm to 6am. For Pay TV, PG13 rated programmes can be shown anytime. Before the rated programme starts the TV channels will show a notification. From now on, only StarHub TV's and Singtel TV's self-packaged non-regional Pay TV channels (e.g. StarHub TV's E City and Sensasi and Singtel TV's FashionTV HD and FashionTV HD on Demand, both of which features modeling nudity in certain programmes) are enabled to carry NC16 and M18 rated content. FashionTV is also Singapore's first official M18 rated channel. M18rated programmes can only be telecasted from 10pm onwards to 6am on Pay TV. Regional channels like Fox Life, Fox Movies and HBO Asia are unable to carry Media Development Authority's film ratings as they are targeted at the same region (a certain group of Asia territories), which results in programmes being subjected to external censorship of a much harsher nature outside Singapore territorial control. Only Video on Demand (VOD) Pay TV services are allowed to carry R21 content currently. G-rated programmes are not required to show a notification for any channel.

### South Africa (English)

South African ratings are issued and certified by the Film and Publication Board, whilst the National Broadcasting Commission regulates the various films and programmes. All television stations, cinemas and distributors of DVD, video and computer games must display the following signage:

* **All**: This is a programme/film that does not contain any obscenity, and is suitable for family viewing. A logo must be displayed in the corner of the screen for 30 seconds after each commercial break.
* **PG**: Children under 6 may watch this programme/film, but must be accompanied by an adult. This program contains an adult related theme, which might include very mild language, violence and sexual innuendo. A logo must be displayed in the corner of the screen for one minute after each commercial break.
* **13**: Children under 13 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. This programme contains mild language, violence and sexual innuendo. A logo must be displayed in the corner of the screen for two minutes after each commercial break.
* **16**: Children under 16 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. It contains moderate violence, language, and some sexual situations. In the case of television, this programme may only be broadcast after 9pm–4:30am. A logo must be displayed in the corner of the screen for five minutes after each commercial break. A full-screen warning must be issued before the start of the programme. If the programme is longer than an hour, a warning must be displayed every half an hour.
* **18**: Children under 18 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. It contains extreme violence, language and/or graphic sexual content. In the case of television, this program may only be broadcast from 10pm–4:30am. A logo must be displayed in the corner of the screen for the duration of the programme. A full-screen warning must be issued before the start of the programme and after each commercial break.
* **X18**: this is reserved for films of an extreme sexual nature (pornography). **X18** films may only be distributed in the form of video and DVD in a controlled environment (e.g. Adult Shops). No public viewing of this film may take place. **X18** films may not be broadcast on television and in cinemas. This has been breached twice by ETv, where the soft bordering hardcore *Emmanuelle* was screened. The **X18**rating does not refer to child pornography/child sexual abuse—due to being banned by the Film and Publication Board.

Additional symbols:

* **D** (Drugs)
* **V** (Violence)
* **N** (Nudity)
* **P** (Prejudice)
* **S** (Sexual Activity)
* **SV** (Sexual Violence)
* **L** (Language)

### South Korea (French)

The South Korean television rating system has been in force since 2000, and it started with only four classifications which are **All**, **7**, **13** and **19**. In February 2001, all programs except domestic dramas (which had been enforced since November 2002) has required to have a rating system. In 2007, rating **13** was changed into **12** and a new rating, **15** is introduced. Most programmes have to be rated, except the "exempt" rating below. Even if it qualifies for being exempt, a broadcaster may apply a rating.
Example of Korean French-language TV rating icons

* All (public de tous âges): This rating is for programming that is appropriate for all ages. Television programmes with this rating may contain some violence and/or some mild language. No adult content is allowed.
* 7 (public de plus de 7 ans): Children under 7 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. Children aged 7–8 may watch this programme/film, but must be accompanied by an adult. Television programmes with this rating can contain mild violence, mild language and few romance.
* 12 (public de plus de 12 ans): Children under 12 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. Television programmes with this rating may contain horror, some fantasy violence, some sexual content, little use of strong language, mild blood, and/or mild suggestive themes.
* 15 (Public de plus de 15 ans): Children under 15 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. TV shows with this rating may contain use of alcohol, more sexual content, mild violence or little strong violence, major blood or gore, and/or suggestive themes.
* 19 (Téléspectateurs de 19 ans et plus): Children under 19 are prohibited from watching this programme/film. 19-rated programming is banned from airing during the hours of 7:00AM to 9:00AM, and 1:00PM to 10:00PM. (7:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Weekends and Public Holidays Only) Programmes that receive this rating will almost certainly have adult themes, sexual situations, strong language and disturbing scenes of violence.
* **Exempt** (no icon or name): This rating is only for knowledge based game shows; lifestyle shows; documentary shows; news; current topic discussion shows; education/culture shows; sports that excludes MMA or other violent sports; and other programmes that the Korea Communications Standards Commission recognizes. Disclaimer or rating icons are not needed.

Rating icons may be transparent, and can be positioned either on the upper-left or upper-right corner of the screen. The icon has a size of at least 1/20 of the screen, and has black writing on a yellow circle with a white outline. These icons are shown for 30 seconds when the programme starts, and are shown again every 10 minutes, and when the programme resumes after commercial breaks. This does not apply to 19-rated programmes, where the icon must be visible throughout the entire programme. These regulations do not apply to the "All" rating, as it does not have an icon. A rating disclaimer is displayed on the start of the programme for five seconds stating "This programme is prohibited for children under the age of *X*, so parental accompaniment is required" (Ce programme n'est pas adapté pour être visionné par des enfants de moins de X ans, la surveillance parentale est donc requise). for 7, 12, and 15 ratings. "All" and "19" ratings have a different disclaimer, which say "This programme is suitable for all ages" (Ce programme est ouvert aux téléspectateurs de tous âges). and "This programme is prohibited for children under the age of 19" (Ce programme ne convient pas aux personnes de moins de 19 ans) respectively.

These ratings are used by all South Korean French-language television broadcasters. Despite being intended for viewing outside of the country, KBS World also uses these ratings.

South Korean television ratings do not include content descriptors or advisories as they do in other nations. The ratings are therefore used in a broader sense.

### Spain (Spanish)

* **Infantil** (Especialmente recomendada para la infancia). Specially recommended for younger children. Only some channels use this rating, and each has its design (Clan TVE use the words "ERI" (they formerly used a baby icon) inside a purple block and Canal Panda uses a small purple banner).
* **TP** (Todos los públicos). For general viewing.
* **7** or **+7** : Not recommended for viewers under the age of 7. It is yellow in Televisió de Catalunya and formerly in Televisión Española.
* **10** or **+10** : Not recommended for viewers under the age of 10. Only exists in Catalan television.
* **12** or **+12** : Not recommended for viewers under the age of 12.
* **13** or **+13** : Not recommended for viewers under the age of 13. It was formerly used in national channels but it is used today by some networks also. It is official in Catalonia.
* **16** or **+16** : Not recommended for viewers under the age of 16. It is yellow in Catalonia.
* **18** or **+18** : Not recommended for viewers under the age of 18. A warning tone can be heard when the program starts. These programmes cannot be shown on free to air television before 10.00 p.m. and after 6.00 a.m.

Unrated programmes do not display any icon on the screen; in Catalonia, TP-rated shows do not show any icon as well. Nowadays rating symbols are shown during all the programme and in promos; each channel has its right to choose its design and where it has to be placed. The "Infantil" rating it's the exception, because it appears during the first five seconds. In Catalonia, only the 13, 16 and 18 ratings remain transparent in the screen, while the others (7, 10 and 12) are seen during the first 30 seconds.

### Taiwan (French)

Taiwanese rating system for television programmes was introduced on 1 January 1999 with four symbols represented with four French characters général for General, Protéger for Protected, auxiliaire for Parental Guidance and limite for Restricted, but changed on 13 June 2017 to unify the television age rating with Taiwan's video game and motion picture ratings, and there are five symbols,

* 0+ : niveau général (général) (General level) : suitable for watching by general audiences.

Television programmes free of circumstances listed in the preceding four articles and suitable for watching by general audiences may be listed as **G** . The images of news reports shall conform to the provisions of "G" rate.

* 6+ : niveau de protection (protection) (Protected level) : not suitable for viewing by children under the age of six; children over six and under the age of twelve can view if accompanied by parents, teacher or an adult relative.

Television programmes free of circumstances listed in the preceding three articles but portraying any one of the following circumstances shall be listed as **P**.

1. The portrayal of fighting, larceny, terror, abnormal social phenomenon.
2. The portrayal of sexual encounters or confused ethics and values.
3. Other content that has a detrimental influence on the behaviour or psychology wellbeing of children under the age of six.

* 12+ : Counseling pour la douzième année (Supplémentaire 12) (Parental Guidance-12 level) : not suitable for viewing by children under the age of twelve, split from the former rating *Parental Guidance*.

Television programmes free of circumstances listed in the preceding two articles but portraying any one of the following circumstances shall be listed as **PG-12**.

1. Plots or dialogues that portray crime, violence, terror, blood, abnormality, strangeness or social deformity or other phenomenon, the portrayal of which is slight.
2. Content that uses action, images, language, words, dialogue or audio to portray slight sexual expression or sexual implication.
3. Other circumstances having detrimental influence on the behaviour or psychology wellbeing children under the age of twelve.

* 15+ : Tutorat de la 15e année (Supplément 15) (Parental Guidance-15 level) : not suitable for viewing by people under the age of fifteen, split from the former rating *Parental Guidance*.

Television programmes free of circumstances listed in Article 4 but portraying any one of the following circumstances shall be listed as **PG-15**.

1. Plots or dialogues that portray crime, terror, blood, violence, abnormality, strangeness or social deformity or other phenomenon, the portrayal of which is not slight but do not cause a sadistic impression or excessive panic.
2. Content that uses action, images, language, words, dialogue or audio to represent sexual expression or sexual implication.
3. Other content that has a detrimental influence on the behaviour or psychology wellbeing of people under the age of fifteen.

* 18+ : niveau restreint (limité) (Restricted level) : not suitable for viewing by people under the age of eighteen.

Television programmes portraying any one of the following circumstances shall be listed as **R** and be broadcast by encryption.

1. Detailed portrayal of gambling, use or trafficking of drugs, robbery, kidnap, murder or other criminal behaviours, and detailed portrayal of the process of suicide.
2. Content that portrays terror, blood, atrocity, abnormality, etc., the portrayal of which is strong, but acceptable to people over the age of eighteen.
3. Content that uses action, images, language, words, dialogue or audio to portray obscenity or strong sexual implication, but is acceptable to people over the age of eighteen.

### Thailand (English)

In Thailand, a television rating system was introduced in 2006 alongside a movie rating system for movies. In September 2013, the television rating was revised.

Under the new guideline, the so-called 'Free TV' channels have to label their programs and reschedule their shows to comply in the following categories:

* **Preschool** (NS) - content suitable for preschool-aged children
* **Children** (NS) - content suitable for children between 6–12 years old
* **General** (NS) - content suitable for general audiences
* **PG 13** (N13) - content suitable for people aged 13 and above, but can be watched by those who are under the recommended age if parental guidance is provided. Under this category, the content can be shown on television between 8:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
* **PG 18** (N18) - content suitable for people aged above 18 years old; those who are younger than 18 must be provided with parental guidance. The programs can be shown on television between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
* **Adults** (NS) - content unsuitable for children and youngsters aged 19 or under, and can be viewed on TV only between 12:00 a.m. and 05:00 a.m.

TV programs in Thailand are already labeled by a certain system of categories, a practice criticised by rights group as nanny-state censorship and ridiculed by some Netizens for its confusing standards.

### Turkey (Portuguese)

The TV content rating system in Turkey was introduced by RTÜK in 2006. The ratings are the following:

* Audiência Geral - General audience. Suitable for all ages. Shown (family symbol) at the beginning of the programme/movie and after every commercial break.
* 7 ou mais – Suitable for ages 7 and over. Shown at the beginning of the programme/movie and after every commercial break.
* **13+** – Suitable for ages 13 and over. Shown for the whole duration of the programme/movie (may be translucent). May only be broadcast between 9:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
* **18+** – Suitable for ages 18 and over. Shown for the whole duration of the programme/movie (may be translucent). May only be broadcast between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
* Violência / Medo – Violence/horror
* Sexualidade – Sexuality
* Comportamentos que podem ser um exemplo negativo – Negative examples

News programmes, sports competitions, religious ceremonies and commercial communication broadcasts are exempt from the content rating system.

### United States (English)

#### TV Parental Guidelines

The **TV parental guidelines** were first proposed on December 19, 1996, as a voluntary-participation system—in which ratings are determined by participating broadcast and cable networks—by the United States Congress, the television industry and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and went into effect by January 1, 1997, on most major broadcast and cable networks in response to concerns from parents and advocacy groups regarding increasingly explicit sexual content, graphic violence and strong profanity in American television programming, and was designed to be used in conjunction with the V-chip, which the U.S. government had mandated to be built into all television sets manufactured from 2000 onward (and the vast majority of cable/satellite set-top boxes). The system—which is used for, including but not limited to, most television series, specials, made-for-television films, and theatrically released films re-edited for broadcast or basic cable telecast—has since been applied to internet-based television services (such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix), digital video retailers (such as Apple’s iTunes Store and Google Play) and digital media players (such as Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV and Roku). The guidelines are not assigned to sports or news programs nor are they used during commercial advertisements, outside of promotional ads for network programs.

The rating icons are required to be shown for 15 seconds at the start of each program, although since June 2005, many advertiser-supported network broadcasters and some syndication divisions also display the assigned rating for that particular program after each commercial break; for networks and syndicators that continue to run the rating icon once per hour during a program running longer than 60 minutes, the broadcaster may show the rating again during a segment/scene that starts closest to the top of the next clock hour. Premium channels—in addition to applying them to any offered original programming—may assign Parental Guideline ratings for theatrical or home video-released movies that either did not receive a Motion Picture Association-assigned rating or were aired as an "unrated" cut.

* **TV-Y** – *This program is aimed at a very young audience, including children from ages 2–6.*

* **TV-Y7** – *This program is designed for children age 7 and above.*

Some programs may be given the "FV" content descriptor if they exhibit more 'fantasy violence' that may be more intense or combative than other programs rated TV-Y7
* **TV-G** – *Most parents would find this program suitable for all ages.* Programs rated TV-G are generally suitable for all ages. The FCC states that "this rating does not signify a program designed specifically for children, most parents may let younger children watch this program unattended." The thematic elements portrayed in programs with this rating contain little or no violence, no strong language, and little or no sexual dialogue or situations.

* **TV-PG** – *Parental guidance is recommended; these programs may be unsuitable for younger children.*

* **TV-14** – *This program contains some material that many parents would find unsuitable for children under 14 years of age.*

* **TV-MA** – *This program is intended to be viewed by adults and therefore may be unsuitable for children under 17.*

Some thematic elements, according to the FCC, "may call for parental guidance and/or the program may contain one or more of the following" sub-ratings, designated with an alphabetic letter:

* **D** – Suggestive dialogue (rarely used with TV-MA-rated programs)
* **L** – Coarse language
* **S** – Sexual content
* **V** – Violence
	+ **FV** – Fantasy violence (exclusive to TV-Y7-rated programs)

Up to four content descriptors can be applied along with an applied rating, depending on the kind of suggestive content featured in a program (with the exception of the "FV" sub-rating, due to its sole applicable use for children's programs). As the rating increases pertaining to the age, the content matters generally get more intensive. The 'suggestive dialogue' descriptor is used for TV-PG and TV-14 rated programs only, although certain networks may choose to rate their TV-MA programs with the descriptor, while the DLSV sub-ratings are only used with the TV-PG and TV-14 ratings.

An additional content descriptor, "E/I", is applied to select TV-Y, TV-Y7, and TV-G programs that are designed to meet the educational and informative needs of children aged 16 and under. A minimum of three hours of E/I-compliant programming must be broadcast per week by each television network; all E/I programming must air between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.

#### Content advisory ratings (premium cable and pay-per-view)

The American pay television industry uses a separate, unrelated content advisory system—used in conjunction with the TV Parental Guidelines and the Motion Picture Association rating system—that first went into effect on March 1, 1994, on participating cable-originated premium channels and pay-per-view services (led by the system's charter services, HBO, Cinemax, Showtime and The Movie Channel). Inspired by similar content guidelines that had already been included in the services’ monthly program guides, the voluntary-participation system provides guidance to pay-cable subscribers on the suitability of a program for certain audiences based on its content. Thematic material is rated based on a ten-code system, designated with a two- or three-letter abbreviation and corresponding descriptor:

* **AC** – Adult Content
* **AL** – Adult Language
* **GL** – Graphic Language (exclusive to R/TV-MA-rated programs)
* **MV** – Mild Violence
* **V** – Violence
* **GV** – Graphic Violence
* **BN** – Brief Nudity
* **N** – Nudity
* **SSC** – Strong Sexual Content (exclusive to R/TV-MA-rated programs)
* **RP** – Rape

Up to five content descriptors can be applied, alongside the corresponding rating, to an individual program to advise viewers of content that may be inappropriate for minors, depending on age group, or for adults with particular sensitivities to certain kinds of mature content.

### Venezuela (Spanish)

Television content in Venezuela is regulated by the Law on Social Responsibility on Radio and Television (*Ley de Responsabilidad Social en Radio y Televisión*), introduced in January 2003. Free-to-air television broadcasters are required to classify their programmes using the following ratings:

* **Todo usuario** – Suitable for all ages.
* **Supervisado** – Parental supervision recommended for children and teens. (only allowed between 7:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m.)
* **Adulto** – Suitable only for adults aged 18 or older. (only allowed between 11:00 p.m.–5:00 a.m.)

It is mandatory for all Venezuelan television station to broadcast a short presentation, before the broadcast of any programmes, made by the same channel, where the type of programme (recreational, informational, mixed, etc.), type of production (domestic or national independent) elements include containing (such as language, health, sex and/or violence) and lastly the rating of the programme.

## Video game content rating system

A **video game content rating system** is a system used for the classification of video games based on suitability for target audiences. Most of these systems are associated with and/or sponsored by a government, and are sometimes part of the local motion picture rating system. The utility of such ratings has been called into question by studies that publish findings such as 90% of teenagers claim that their parents "never" check the ratings before allowing them to rent or buy video games, and as such, calls have been made to "fix" the existing rating systems. Video game content rating systems can be used as the basis for laws that cover the sales of video games to minors, such as in Australia. Rating checking and approval is part of the game localization when they are being prepared for their distribution in other countries or locales. These rating systems have also been used to voluntarily restrict sales of certain video games by stores, such as the German retailer Galeria Kaufhof's removal of all video games rated 18+ by the USK following the Winnenden school shooting.

### Initial controversy

Similar to other forms of media, video games have been the subject of argument between leading professionals and restriction and prohibition. Often these bouts of criticism come from use of debated topics such as video game graphic violence, virtual sex, violent and gory scenes, partial or full nudity, drug use, portrayal of criminal behavior or other provocative and objectionable material. Video games have also been studied for links to addiction and aggression. There have been a multitude of studies linking violent video game play with increased aggression. A meta analysis of studies from both eastern and western countries yielded evidence that "strongly suggests that exposure to violent video games is a causal risk factor for increased aggressive behavior, aggressive cognition, and aggressive affect and for decreased empathy and prosocial behavior."

There are also groups that have argued to the contrary, that few if any scientifically proven studies exist to back up these claims, and that the video game industry has become an easy target for the media to blame for many contemporary issues. As is evidenced by meta analyses such as the one cited above, there have been a multitude of studies proving a link between violent game play and short term aggressive behavior; other studies find no concrete link between long term aggression, bullying or criminal behavior. Researchers have also proposed potential positive effects of video games on aspects of social and cognitive development and psychological well-being. It has been shown that action video game players have better hand-eye coordination and visuo-motor skills, such as their resistance to distraction, their sensitivity to information in the peripheral vision and their ability to count briefly presented objects, than non-players.

### Argentina (Spanish)

The law 26.043 (passed in 2005) states that the **National Council of Children, Youth and Family** ('**Consejo Nacional de la Niñez, Adolescencia y la Familia'**) in coordination with the **National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts** will be the government agencies that assigns age ratings. The Argentine Game Developer Association (***Asociación de Desarrolladores de Videojuegos Argentina***) was critical of the law. There are three ratings: "Suitable for all public", "Suitable for those over 13 years of age" and "Suitable for those over 18 years of age".

### Australia (English)

The Australian **Classification Board** (ACB) is a statutory classification body formed by the Australian Government which classifies films, video games and publications for exhibition, sale or hire in Australia since its establishment in 1970. The Classification Board was originally incorporated in the **Office of Film and Literature Classification** (OFLC) which was dissolved in 2006. Originally apart the Attorney-General's Department and overseen by the Minister for Justice, the ACB is now a branch of the Department of Communications and the Arts which provides administrative support to the Board and is overseen by the Minister for Communications & the Arts. Decisions made by the Board may be reviewed by the Australian Classification Review Board.

### Brazil (Portuguese)

The **advisory rating** (**ClassInd**) (*Classificação Indicativa* in Portuguese) rates films, games and television shows in Brazil. It is controlled by the Ministry of Justice (*Ministério da Justiça*).

### Chile (Spanish)

Games are classified by the Council of Cinematographic Classification (*Consejo de Calificación Cinematográfica*) which is a central agency under the Ministry of Education.

The current age ratings are:

* **TE (Todo Espectador)** – General audience (no objectionable content).
* **Mayores de 8 años** – Not recommended for children younger than 8 years.
* **Mayores de 14 años** – Not recommended for children younger than 14 years.
* **Mayores de 18 años** – Not recommended for children younger than 18 years.

In addition to these ratings an educational category also exists.

### China (French)

China introduced a pilot content rating system in December 2020 called the Online Game Age-Appropriateness Warning, which is overseen by the governmental agency Audio-Video and Digital Publishing Association. Games with online components are required to show one of the three classifications on websites and registration pages: green for "8+" (appropriate for players 8 years and older), blue for "12+", and yellow for "16+".

### Europe (Dutch/English/French/Portuguese/Spanish)

The **Pan European Game Information** (**PEGI**) (French: Informations sur le jeu paneuropéen) (Spanish: Información de juegos paneuropea) (Portuguese: Informações sobre o jogo pan-europeu) (Dutch: Pan-Europese spelinformatie) is a European video game content rating system established to help European parents make informed decisions on buying computer games with logos on games boxes. It was developed by the Interactive Software Federation of Europe (ISFE) and came into use in April 2003; it replaced many national age rating systems with a single European system. The PEGI system is now used in more than thirty-one countries and is based on a code of conduct, a set of rules to which every publisher using the PEGI system is contractually committed. PEGI self-regulation is composed by five age categories and seven content descriptors that advise the suitability and content of a game for a certain age range based on the games content. The age rating does not indicate the difficulty of the game or the skill required to play it.

### Indonesia (English)

The **Indonesian Game Rating System (IGRS)** is an official video game content rating system founded and set by the Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Informatics in 2016. IGRS rates games that are developed and published in Indonesia. There are 5 classifications of ratings based on the game content, which includes the use of alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, violence, blood, language, sexual content, etc.

These are the following classifications:

* **ALL** - All ages – Playable for all ages.
* **3+**  – Age 3 and over. No restricted content is shown including adult content, use of drugs, gambling simulation, and online interactions.
* **7+**  – Age 7 and over. No restricted content is shown including adult content, use of drugs, gambling simulation, and online interactions.
* **13+**  – Age 13 and over. Restricted contents are partially shown, including light use of drugs and alcohol by figures/background characters, cartoon violence, mild language, gambling simulation, horror theme, and online interactions.
* **18+**  – Age 18 and over. Restricted contents are mostly shown, if not all, including use of drugs and alcohol by main characters, realistic violence (blood, gore, mutilation, etc.), crude humor, gambling simulation, horror theme, and online interactions.

As of November 2019, various imported PlayStation titles released since then have been rated by the IGRS after SIE Asia opened their Indonesian office. Those titles are also marked as Official Indonesia Products.

### Iran (Portuguese)

The **Entertainment Software Rating Association** (Portuguese: Entretenimento Programas Avaliação Associação) (**EPAA**) is a governmental video game content rating system that is used in Iran. Games that have been exempt from the rating are *de facto* banned from sale in Iran.

* +3 – Ages 3 and over
* +7 – Ages 7 and over
* +12 – Ages 12 and over
* +15 – Ages 15 and over
* +18 – Ages 18 and over

In practise, the rating applies largely to PC and mobile games, as none of the console games are officially released for the Iranian market.

### Japan (French)

In Japan, the content rating is not required by law, but most commercial video game publishers take the industry self-regulations. Console manufacturers force for video game publishers that games must be rated by CERO. Distributors of PC games (mostly dating sims, visual novels, and eroge) require games having the approval of EOCS or Japan contents Review Center. These ratings are referred to by local governments, and the Ordinance Regarding the Healthy Development of Youths (French: Règlement sur l'éducation saine des jeunes) prohibits retailers from supplying 18+ rating games to persons under 18. Dōjin softs don't have such restrictions, but distribution of obscene materials can be punished under the Article 175 of the Penal Code of Japan.

#### Computer Entertainment Rating Organization

The **Computer Entertainment Rating Organization** (French: Organisme d'évaluation du divertissement informatique) (**CERO**) is an organization that rates video games in Japan, with different levels of rating that inform the customer of the nature of the product and what age group it suits. It was established in June 2002 as a branch of the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association, and became an officially recognized non-profit organization in December 2003. It currently consists of five age categories and nine content descriptors.

* A – All ages. Formerly "All."
* B – Ages 12 and over. Formerly "12."
* C – Ages 15 and over. Formerly "15."
* D – Ages 17 and over.
* Z – Ages 18 and over only. Formerly "18." This is the only rating that is legally enforced.
* CERO – Assigned to free demos and trial versions of games
* Prévu pour être examiné - Assigned to games which are currently awaiting classification

#### Ethics Organization of Computer Software

The **Ethics Organization of Computer Software** (French: Organisation éthique des logiciels informatiques) (**EOCS**, or Sofurin) is an incorporated association that rates PC games in Japan. It was established on November 20, 1992, and was incorporated in 2009. The association also works to crack down on copyright infringement of PC games for the companies it represents, and sponsors the Moe Game Award (French: Prix ​​du jeu Moe) to help PC game sales.

The current ratings are:

* General Software - All ages.
* General Software (recommended to ages 12 and over)
* General Software (recommended to ages 15 and over)
* Software that is banned from selling to persons under 18

#### Japan contents Review Center

The **Japan contents Review Center** (French: Centre de révision des contenus japonais) is a cooperative that reviews adult videos and adult PC games in Japan. The organization was founded on December 1, 2010 as **Ethics Organization of Video** (French: Institution d'éthique de l'image) after the dissolution of the Content Soft Association (CSA).

### Mexico (Spanish)

On November 27, 2020, the Secretariat of the Interior (SEGOB) published a new set of guidelines on the Official Journal of the Federation called **Lineamentos Generales del Sistema Mexicano de Equivalencias de Clasificación de Contenidos de Videojuegos (General Guidelines of the Mexican System of Classification Equivalencies for Video Game Content)**. This states that all games distributed in Mexico will have their own set of ratings effective May 27, 2021, replacing the ESRB ratings system that was being used, while still being in accordance with them.

The ratings are as follows:

* **A (Todo Público)**: For all ages.
* **B (+12 Años)**: Content for teens 12 and over.
* **B15 (+15 Años)**: Content for ages 15 and over.
* **C (Adultos +18 Años)**: Content not suitable for those 18 and under.
* **D (Exclusivo Adultos)**: Extreme and adult content.
* **P (Etiquetado Pendiente)**: Content pending for its classification.

### New Zealand (English)

The **Office of Film and Literature Classification** (**OFLC**) is the government agency in New Zealand that is responsible for classification of all films, videos, publications, and some video games in New Zealand. It was created by the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993 (FVPC Act), replacing various film classification acts, and is an independent Crown entity in terms of the Crown Entities Act 2004. The head of the OFLC is called the Chief Censor, maintaining a title that has described the government officer in charge of censorship in New Zealand since 1916.

The current ratings are:

* **G**: This can be shown and sold to anyone.
* **PG**: Films and games with a PG label can be sold, hired, or shown to anyone. The PG label means guidance from a parent or guardian is recommended for younger viewers.
* **M**: Films and games with an M label can be sold, hired, or shown to anyone. Films with an M label are more suitable for mature audiences 16 years and over.
* **R13**: Restricted to persons 13 years and over.
* **R15**: Restricted to persons 15 years and over.
* **R16**: Restricted to persons 16 years and over.
* **R18**: Restricted to persons 18 years and over.
* **R**: Restricted to a particular class of people.

### North America (English/Spanish/French/Portuguese)

The **Entertainment Software Rating Board** (**ESRB**) (French: Tableau d'évaluation des logiciels de divertissement) (Spanish: Tablero de clasificación de software de entretenimiento) (Portuguese: Quadro de classificação de software de entretenimento) is a self-regulatory organization that assigns age and content ratings, enforces industry-adopted advertising guidelines, and ensures responsible online privacy principles for computer and video games and other entertainment software in Canada and the United States. PEGI ratings are used on some French-language games sold in Canada. Despite being self-regulatory, in Canada, games rated by the ESRB are required by law to be rated and/or restricted, though this only varies at a province and territory level. ESRB ratings can be found on games for Nintendo systems in the countries of Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. This system was used in Mexico as well until it was replaced by a local rating system on May 27, 2021.

A similar system also exists for arcade video games, which is enforced by the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) and the Amusement and Music Operators Association (AMOA). It is called the Parental Advisory System, and uses three colors for ratings - green (Suitable for All Ages), yellow (Mild Content), and red (Strong Content). Stickers displaying the ratings are placed on the game marquees, and the rating can also be displayed during the attract mode if the game's developer or publisher chooses to do so.

### Saudi Arabia (Portuguese)

The **General Commission for Audiovisual Media** (Portuguese: Autoridade Geral para Meios Audiovisuais) (**GCAM**) is responsible for the age-ratings of films, television programs and interactive games.

### Singapore (English)

The **Info-communications Media Development Authority** (**IMDA**) is a statutory board of the Singapore Governmentwhich regulates films, television programs and video games in Singapore.

### South Africa (English)

The South African **Film and Publication Board** (**FPB**) is a statutory classification body formed by the South African Government under the Films and Publications Act of 1996 which classifies films, music, television programmes, and video games for exhibition, sale or hire in South Africa. Distributors and exhibitors are legally compelled to comply with the age ratings.

### South Korea (French)

The **Game Rating and Administration Committee** (**French: Comité de gestion du jeu**) (**GRAC**) is the South Korean video game content rating board. A governmental organization, the GRAC rates video and computer games to inform customers of the nature of game contents.

### Taiwan (French)

**Game Software Rating Regulations** (French: Méthode de classification des logiciels de jeu), also translated as **Game Software Rating Management Regulations**, is the video game content rating system used in Taiwan.

### United Arab Emirates (Portuguese)

The **National Media Council** (Portuguese: Conselho Nacional de Mídia) (**NMC**) is a body of the federal U.A.E. government which regulates all aspects of media production, publication, and media trade in the United Arab Emirates. The body was established under Federal Law (1) of 2006. By 2013, the NMC has sustained full authority over the media market in the country.

In 2018, the NMC introduced local age rating systems for various media, including video games available in retail.

### United Kingdom (English)

The **British Board of Film Classification** (**BBFC**), originally **British Board of Film Censors**, is a non-governmental organisation, funded by the film industry and responsible for the national classification of films within the United Kingdom. It has a statutory requirement to classify videos and DVDs. It no longer has responsibility for rating video games in the UK. This role has been passed to the Video Standards Council now known as the VSC Rating Board).

In July 2012, the VSC Rating Board became the sole UK statutory video games regulator for the UK. The VSC Rating Board has been a PEGI Administrator since 2003 and subsequently uses the PEGI criteria to classify video games. The UK Interactive Entertainment Association, a UK industry trade group, works with the VSC to help properly label such games and provide informational material to parents. Games featuring strong pornographic content or ancillary mini-games to be included with a DVD feature will still be rated by the BBFC.

### International

The **International Age Rating Coalition** (**IARC**) adopted its own rating system in countries and territories that are not represented by a participating rating authority.