Broadcasting License: Who Qualifies and What You Get

In Germany, certain content creators are classified as broadcasters rather than just individual streamers, requiring them to obtain a specific legal permit to operate.

👤Who it's for

This license is specifically for high-reach streamers. You qualify for this requirement if your content reaches an audience of more than 20,000 average viewers. If your viewership stays below this specific threshold, you generally do not fall under these specific broadcasting regulations.

🎁What you get

By obtaining this license, you receive the legal permission required to operate a 24/7 linear stream. This allows you to run a continuous broadcast legally under the regulations set by the regional media authorities. Without this, a continuous stream may not meet the legal definition of a broadcast.

💰What it costs you

Obtaining this license involves more than just a simple application. You will be responsible for paying high administrative fees to cover the processing of your license. Additionally, you must commit to strict compliance checks, which means your content and operations will be subject to oversight to ensure you are meeting all regulatory standards.

⚠️The catch to know

The most significant hurdle is the threshold itself. Because the administrative process is quite heavy and the costs are high, many streamers actively manage their growth or content style to stay under the viewership threshold. This allows them to avoid the complexities of the licensing process and the associated fees.

📝How to apply

1. Track your viewership data carefully to determine if your average viewer count exceeds the 20,000 mark.
2. Identify the specific regional media authorities (Landesmedienanstalten) responsible for your area.
3. Prepare for rigorous compliance checks regarding your broadcasting practices.
4. Submit your application and pay the required administrative fees to secure your legal status.