What BBFC does
Classifies films, videos, and some video games for age rating. Statutory authority for classifying cinema releases and video works under the Video Recordings Act 1984.
Contact BBFC
- feedback@bbfc.co.uk
- Phone
- 020 7440 1570
Official guidance from BBFC
Curated guidance documents to help you understand your obligations.
The Video Recordings Act | BBFC (opens in a new tab)
Detailed Guidance
Film Licensing in the UK | BBFC (opens in a new tab)
Detailed Guidance
Our Classification Guidelines | BBFC (opens in a new tab)
Detailed Guidance
The BBFC and the law | BBFC (opens in a new tab)
Detailed Guidance
The Criminal Law | BBFC (opens in a new tab)
Detailed Guidance
Legal framework
Legislation that BBFC directly enforces.
Primary legislation
Secondary legislation
Video Recordings (Labelling) Regulations 2012
The Video Recordings Act 1984 (Exempted Video Works) Regulations 2014
Related legislation
Legislation connected to BBFC’s remit but not directly enforced — establishing Acts, amendments, referenced legislation, and context.
Amendments / commencements
Referenced in enforcement
Obscene Publications Act 1959
Protection of Children Act 1978
Cinemas Act 1985
Criminal Justice Act 1988
Cinemas (Northern Ireland) Order 1991
Communications Act 2003
Licensing Act 2003
Sexual Offences Act 2003
Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008
Coroners and Justice Act 2009
DEA 2017
Online Safety Act 2023