view lightbox
Child Performance Licences: What Every Parent Needs To Know
written by
Maria Campbell-Green
DO CHILD MODELS NEED A LICENCE IN THE UK? WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW
If your child has been offered a modelling job or acting role, you may be asking: Do child models need a licence in the UK? In most professional cases, yes. A child performance licence is required for paid modelling, television and advertising work for all children from birth. This licence is issued by your local authority to protect your child’s education, health and welfare while they are working.
Understanding child modelling laws in the UK can feel confusing at first, but once you know when a child performance licence is required and how the process works, it becomes a straightforward and well-managed part of the job.
WHAT IS A CHILD PERFORMANCE LICENCE IN THE UK?
A child performance licence is a legal requirement under The Children and Young Persons Acts. It applies to children taking part in paid performances, which includes commercial modelling, television, film, theatre and advertising campaigns.
The purpose of a child modelling licence is to ensure that children are working appropriate hours, receiving proper supervision, and not missing excessive schooling. It also guarantees that a licensed chaperone is present where required and that welfare standards are maintained on set.
WHEN IS A CHILD MODELLING LICENCE REQUIRED?
In all professional bookings, a child performance licence will be required if your child, even if the job takes place during school holidays or weekends, a licence is still required. Many production companies choose to licence properly as standard practice to remain compliant with UK child modelling laws.
As a UK child modelling agency, Sandra Reynolds Juniors works closely with clients and local authorities to ensure all child acting and modelling licences are handled correctly and in a timely manner.
WHO APPLIES FOR THE LICENCE?
The application for a child performance licence is made to the child’s local authority, not the council where the shoot is taking place. Typically, the production company completes the main application, while parents provide supporting documents such as:
- A recent passport-style photograph.
- A copy of the birth certificate.
- A medical declaration.
- School approval is required during term time.
Your agency will coordinate the process and guide you through any paperwork needed.
If you are new to the industry and want a broader overview of how child modelling works, you may find our guide to Child models: everything you need to know helpful.
DO BABIES AND TODDLERS NEED A LICENCE?
Children under compulsory school age do not require school permission, but they do still require a child performance licence.
HOW LONG DOES A CHILD LICENCE TAKE TO PROCESS?
Processing times vary depending on the local authority, but applications are generally submitted at least 10 to 21 working days before the shoot date. This is why responding promptly when your booker requests documentation is essential.
WHAT HAPPENS ON THE DAY OF THE SHOOT?
A child performance licence ensures that strict regulations apply regarding:
- Maximum working hours.
- Mandatory rest breaks.
- Licensed chaperone supervision.
- Educational provision if needed.
These regulations are designed to protect children and ensure that modelling and acting remain positive, well-managed experiences.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILD MODELLING LICENCES
Many parents worry that licensing will limit opportunities or create unnecessary complexity. In reality, performance licensing is a standard and well-established part of the UK children’s entertainment industry. Experienced agencies and production teams manage it routinely.
If you have broader questions about bookings, representation or contracts, our FAQs for parents page covers many of the most common concerns.
FINAL THOUGHTS
In all professional modelling and acting jobs in the UK, child models do need a licence. A child performance licence ensures your child’s welfare, education and working conditions are protected under UK law. While the paperwork may feel unfamiliar initially, it is simply part of maintaining safe and compliant standards across the industry.
If you have questions about documentation or the licence, contact your booker at Sandra Reynolds Juniors. As a trusted UK child modelling agency, we are here to make the process clear, compliant and straightforward for you and your child.
share post
written by Maria Campbell-Green
get in touch with the booking desk
020 7387 5858 send an email subscribe to our newsletter live chat using the icon below
