Frequently Asked Questions

If I use the online licensing system how long will it take to get a licence?

Business Radio Simple UK, Simple Site and Suppliers Light licences are issued within 7-10 days from the date that the application is received.*
Business Radio Technically Assigned and Area Defined licences are issued within 14-21 days from the date that the application is received.*
*Times stated exclude the period that an application is on hold for while we wait for payment, or if the licence requires national/international coordination.

Can I pay online?

Yes, for licence fees up to and including £5,000. To make an online payment, please visit our online payment portal.

How do I pay?

For licence fees up to and including £5,000, the fastest way is to submit a credit/debit card payment through our online payment portal.

• The preferred method of payment is credit/debit card, up to a maximum of £5,000. Please note that we do not accept American Express.
• For payments over £5,000 a direct debit instruction is best. Direct debits cannot be set up in time to collect the first payment, but will be used for future payments. However, payment can be taken by direct debit for a new licence if you are an existing licensee with a live direct debit instruction set up with your bank.
• If you prefer to make a BACS payment, please quote your invoice number, so that our Finance team can identify your payment easily.
• For International Banker’s Drafts, please quote your invoice number. You will need to add the charge on an international banker’s draft to the total requested.

Spectrum Licensing
PO Box 56373
London
SE1 9SZ

Tel: 0300 123 3333 or 020 7981 3131.

We are open Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm.

Fax: 020 7981 3235

Textphone: 0300 123 2024 or 020 7981 3043

Please note that these numbers only work with special equipment used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

E-mail: spectrum.licensing@ofcom.org.uk