The Categories

In classifying films, videos or digital media, the BBFC also gives consideration to the following basic principles

• adults should as far as possible be free to choose what they see, providing that it remains within the law and is not potentially harmful to society
• works should be allowed to reach the widest audience that is appropriate for their theme and treatment
• the context in which something (eg sex or violence) is presented is central to the question of its acceptability
• the BBFC’s Guidelines will be reviewed periodically. The Guidelines, and the Board's practice in applying them, have particular regard to any changes in public taste, attitudes and concerns; changes in the law; or new evidence from research or expert sources.

The Classification categories are:

Universal - Suitable for all

Parental Guidance - General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children

Suitable for 12 years and over. No-one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.

No-one younger than 12 may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video or DVD. Responsibility for allowing under-12s to view lies with the accompanying or supervising adult.

Suitable only for 15 years and over
No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video or DVD.

Suitable only for adults. No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.

To be shown only in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults of not less than 18 years.

Occasionally, a work lies on the margin between two categories. In applying the criteria in these Guidelines in such a case, the BBFC takes into account the intentions of the film-maker, the expectations of the public in general and the work’s audience in particular, and any special merits of the work.

Classification decisions may be stricter on video, DVD and digital works than on film. This is because of the increased possibility of under-age viewing recognised in the Video Recordings Act, and of works being replayed or viewed out of context. Accordingly, a work may occasionally receive a higher age classification than on film, or require new or different cuts.

Classification decisions may be more restrictive with regard to trailers and advertisements. This is because difficult content in such short works may have a greater impact on an unprepared audience.

Consumer Advice

The BBFC provides Consumer Advice on all the works it classifies, and attaches importance to this. Consumer Advice enables the public to make informed choices. It covers in particular violence, sex, language, drugs and any other matters likely to be of concern to the public. The information should appear on publicity for all cinema works rated 'U' to '18', and on the packaging of all videos, DVDs and digital games rated 'U' to '18'. The display of this information in publicity or on packaging is ultimately a matter for the film and video industry. The Board's Consumer Advice is, however, available on its website, www.bbfc.co.uk.