Public Information / Campaigning Films
We classify public information/campaigning films for theatrical release on behalf of local licensing authorities who license cinemas under the Licensing Act 2003.
As of 31 March 2016 age rating theatrical advertisements that are paid-for messages for commercial goods or services is delegated to the Cinema Advertising Association (CAA). We define a public information/campaigning film as content that is not a paid-for message for a commercial good or service.
Do I need to submit my work for classification?
All theatrical public information/campaigning films must be submitted for classification, unless permission is granted by the licensing authority in the area for the film to be shown without a BBFC age rating.
What can/can't I submit?
All public information/campaigning films submitted to us must be the full, final edit in the correct screen ratio with final sound mix.
All theatrical public information/campaigning films should be uploaded directly to us in Horizon, we can also accept streaming links. We do not accept download links.
Any film to be distributed in both 2D and 3D may require separate submissions as the different formats may raise differing classification issues. In some cases we offer a concessionary rate.
Please see our general technical requirements for submissions.
How do I submit?
In order to submit a work please make an entry on our extranet service.
If you do not have an account please request one.
How much does it cost?
Visit our fees page to calculate your cost.
Displaying the BBFC’s age rating
The public information / campaigning film should display the appropriate BBFC age rating symbol on screen for a minimum of five seconds, before the film begins or appear in the bottom left- or right-hand corner of the film itself.
Please contact us to get access to high resolution copies of the BBFC rating symbols.
Is there anything else I need to consider?
We also provide an advice service to help you establish what rating an unfinished work may receive.
Please contact the BBFC Helpline and we will be happy to advise you. Our premises are closed until further notice, but we're still working. Please contact us on helpline@bbfc.co.uk as this phone line is not currently in use.