If we have previously classified a film for theatrical release and you now wish to re-release it theatrically with a BBFC certificate and black card, you may need to submit it to us for a new classification.

This document explains what you need to do.

1) If we last issued a theatrical certificate to the film prior to the introduction of the modern age ratings (U, PG, 15 or 18) in November 1982:

You will need to submit the film for a full viewing so that we can issue a new certificate and black card. We will charge 75% of the standard fee (unless the film contains previously cut, re-edited or additional material, in which case we will charge the full standard fee).

2) If we last issued a theatrical certificate to the film between November 1982 and 31 July 1989 inclusive:

a) If you still have the original U, PG, 15 or 18 certificate and black card and are sure that the version you intend to release is exactly the same as the classified version, you may release the film with the original certificate and black card. (Please note, you are welcome to submit the film for a full viewing if you would like us to consider the possibility of reclassification. We will charge 75% of the standard fee.)

b) If you do not still have the original U, PG, 15 or 18 certificate and black card or are not sure whether the version you intend to release is exactly the same as the classified version, you will need to submit the film for a full viewing so that we can issue a new certificate and black card. We will charge 75% of the standard fee (unless the film contains previously cut, re-edited or additional material, in which case we will charge the full standard fee).

3) If we last issued a theatrical certificate to the film on or after 1 August 1989:

a) If we classified the film U, PG, 12A, 15 or 18, and if you still have the original certificate and black card and are sure that the version you intend to release is exactly the same as the classified version, you may release the film with the original certificate and black card. (Please note, you are welcome to submit the film for a full viewing if you would like us to consider the possibility of reclassification. We will charge 50% of the standard fee.)

b) If you do not still have the original certificate and black card, or if we classified the film 12 (i.e. not 12A), but you are sure that the version you intend to release is exactly the same as the classified version, our Compliance team will determine whether a full viewing is required. They will do this by considering existing examiners’ reports and other relevant documentation in relation to the following criteria:

(i) whether a certificate has been issued under current Guidelines;

(ii) whether a more recent certificate has been issued for a version of the film to

be released on another format (e.g. video, online);

(iii) whether changes in our Guidelines and/or policies, or the law, since the last

classification are likely to result in a different classification;
(iv) whether the film has previously been cut;
(v) whether or not any previous release(s) of the film have provoked controversy.

Where we conclude that a full viewing is required, we will charge 50% of the standard fee.

Where we conclude that a full viewing is not required, you will just need to book the film in via the extranet and send us the DCP so that we can take a new measurement. We will charge an administration fee of £108.47 for the issuing of a new certificate and black card. Please note, where we decide that a film previously classified 12 does not require a new viewing, we will reclassify it 12A.

c) If we classified the film U, PG, 12A, 12, 15 or 18 and you are not sure whether the version you intend to release is exactly the same as the classified version, you will need to submit the film for a full viewing so that we can issue a new certificate and black card. We will charge 50% of the standard fee (unless the film contains previously cut, re-edited or additional material, in which case we will charge the full standard fee).

NB. All fees quoted are exclusive of VAT.

If you have any queries about this, please don’t hesitate to contact the Customer Helpline (helpline@bbfc.co.uk or 020 7440 0299).