Operating Licence Application Solicitors
Applying for a Gambling Commission operating licence is a detailed and often time‑consuming process. Applications are closely scrutinised and require clear evidence that the applicant is suitable to carry out licensed gambling activities and has the systems, controls and governance needed to comply with regulatory requirements.
Our betting and gaming team advise businesses at every stage of the operating licence process, from initial planning and product categorisation through to preparing and submitting applications and responding to Gambling Commission enquiries.
We work with clients to ensure applications are robust, clearly presented and aligned with regulatory expectations.
Legal advice on gambling operating licences
If you intend to provide remote gambling facilities to consumers in Great Britain (B2C), you will generally require a Remote Operating Licence issued by the Gambling Commission. This requirement applies regardless of where the operator is physically based.
Where gambling facilities are provided on a business‑to‑business (B2B) basis and there is no direct relationship with the end‑user, the relevant operator or supplier will still usually require a Gambling Commission licence. Depending on the nature of the activities being carried out, this may include a Remote Operating Licence, a Gambling Software Licence or a Game Host Licence (B2B).
For example, a game host licence is typically required where an operator hosts or controls key gambling software functions, such as random number generators used within online games. A game host licence may only be granted to the holder of, or applicant for, the appropriate gambling software licence.
We advise clients on identifying the correct licence type and scope at the outset, helping to avoid unnecessary delay or regulatory risk.
Licensable activities
Applications for remote operating licences are broken down into distinct licensable activities, including:
- Casino gaming (including online slots and poker)
- Bingo
- Betting (including sports betting)
- Lotteries
Where approval is sought for more than one activity, the Gambling Commission may issue a combined operating licence covering all approved activities, subject to the relevant conditions and codes of practice.
Correctly identifying the nature of the gambling activities being offered is critical, as this determines licensing requirements, technical standards and ongoing compliance obligations.
Ongoing compliance and regulatory support
Securing an operating licence is only the start of a licensee’s regulatory journey. Once granted, operators must comply with the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP), technical standards and other regulatory requirements that continue to evolve over time.
Our team advises operators on:
- Ongoing regulatory compliance and governance
- Changes to gambling legislation, LCCP and Gambling Commission guidance
- Preparing for compliance assessments and regulatory engagement
- Managing risk arising from enforcement action taken against other operators
We support clients in maintaining licences, responding to regulatory scrutiny and ensuring compliance frameworks remain fit for purpose as the business develops.
Meet an expert from our betting and gaming team
Our betting and gaming team supports operators, suppliers and investors in navigating regulatory complexity, managing risk and moving forward with confidence.
Frequently asked questions about operating licences
Not all gambling‑style or game‑based products require an operating licence.
Businesses are often unsure whether their product falls within gambling regulation, particularly where it involves prizes, randomisation or monetisation. We regularly advise on product categorisation, helping clients assess whether an operating licence is required and, if so, the correct licence type and scope before launch or investment.
Contact our specialists
Get strategic advice from a team that knows how to protect and grow your business. Please complete our enquiry form and one of our experts will contact you by the next working day.
Alternatively, you can call us now.
Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (Excluding Public Holidays).
03300290196
Making an enquiry
We have several ways you can contact us, either by completing our online contact form, by phone, or using our live chat. If you start your journey online, here are the first steps to working together.
Complete our online formWe need a few details to understand your situation and the kind of support you need.
We’ll contact you by phoneOn the call our experts will ask you a few more questions to make sure we connect you with the right legal advice from our team.
We arrange a full appointmentIf we’re able to support you further, the next step is an appointment with one of our specialists so we can discuss everything in more detail.