Beginners Call

Child performance licence: Hampshire

Hampshire County Council licenses children who live in Hampshire.A complete application 21 days before the performance. Incomplete or part applications are deleted.

Last checked 28 October 2026

How to apply
Email the completed application form. Applications sent any other way aren’t processed.
Notice for a licence
A complete application 21 days before the performance. Incomplete or part applications are deleted.
Using the 4-day rule
Email Hampshire’s Exemption Application. Hampshire says the 4 days count over a rolling 6 months and include all performances, and that performances arranged by schools, Scouts and Guides are exempt, but festivals, choirs and competitions aren’t.
Body of Persons Approval
At least 5 children, apply at least 21 days before the first performance. BOPAs are now for individual shows only; Hampshire no longer issues 12-month approvals.
Also worth knowing
Chaperone licences: allow at least 12 weeks. Volunteer £25, professional £80.
Email
child.employment@hants.gov.uk

Hampshire County Council’s page

From Hampshire County Council’s own website on 28 October 2026. Councils change their forms often, so follow their page if it differs.

Do your children need a licence at all?

Not if they’re unpaid, don’t miss school, and haven’t performed on more than 3 days in the 6 months before each show day (the 4-day rule), or if your show has a BOPA. Children who live outside Hampshire are licensed by their own council.

Sources

Beginners Call is an information tool, not legal advice. It reads the law the way the Department for Education’s advice does, but your council makes the decision. If in doubt, ask them.