If you’re a fan of British TV shows and want to access BBC iPlayer in USA, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, BBC iPlayer is not officially available in the US or other countries outside the UK.
But don’t worry; this guide will show you how can you get BBC iPlayer in the USA, live stream and on-demand, with the help of a premium VPN like ExpressVPN. Using a VPN is the most effective method to enjoy BBC iPlayer in the USA.
Thanks to top VPNs, people can now watch BBC iPlayer in the USA. It allows you to change your IP address to a UK one and encrypt your online traffic, enabling you to bypass geo-restrictions and access BBC iPlayer from anywhere.
ExpressVPN, known for its fast-speed servers, is an excellent choice for this purpose, offering free access to BBC iPlayer’s diverse content library, including films, series, and live sports.
How to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA? [Step-by-Step Guide]
Accessing BBC iPlayer in USA is simple. Follow the below steps to learn how to watch BBC in USA for free:
- Choose a reliable VPN with UK servers. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a UK server. (preferably East – London).
- Visit the BBC iPlayer website or app and sign up.
- Start streaming your favorite British content!
Note: Don’t miss out on ExpressVPN’s exclusive offer – 3 extra months FREE on 12-month plan, a saving of 49%!
Now you know how can I watch BBC in America? To use BBC iPlayer, you need to create an account. It’s very easy to register for a BBC iPlayer account. Let us tell you how;
What is the BBC iPlayer VPN in USA? [Comparison Table]
Here is the comparison table of the best VPNs for BBC iPlayer to watch in the US:
VPNs | Total Server Count | Simultaneous Connections | Price |
ExpressVPN | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 8 | US$6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free |
Surfshark | 3200+ servers in 100+ countries | Unlimited | US$2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee |
NordVPN | 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries | 6 | US$3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend |
CyberGhost | 7900+ servers in 100 countries | 7 | US$/mo - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free |
IPVanish | 2000+ servers in 75+ countries | Unlimited | US$2.99/mo - Get 3 FREE Months + Save 77% on 2-year plan |
PureVPN | 6500+ servers in 75+ countries | 10 | US$3.29/mo - Get 5 FREE Months & 84% Off on 2-year plan |
Why do you Need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA?
BBC iPlayer offers a variety of British TV shows, movies, and sports events, but it’s geographically restricted to the UK. This means if you’re in the USA, you’ll need a VPN to access this content.
A VPN masks your IP address, making it appear as if you’re browsing from the UK, thereby bypassing these geo-restrictions.
Not only does this allow you to enjoy BBC iPlayer’s rich content library, but it also ensures your online activities remain private and secure.
Further, when you try watching BBC iPlayer in the USA without a VPN, you will be instantly blocked by the service and come across the following BBC iPlayer proxy error:
“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to right issues.”
Here, a VPN comes to your rescue. By connecting to UK servers, a VPN will hide your local IP address and swap it with one from the United Kingdom, tricking BBC iPlayer into thinking that you are watching its service from the United Kingdom.
A premium VPN, such as ExpressVPN, can help you bypass these geo-restrictions on BBC iPlayer, allowing you to watch it in USA while staying within legal limits. It offers the widest network of fast-speed servers to unblock and access BBC iPlayer in the USA successfully.
How do I get a BBC iPlayer Account in USA?
Creating a BBC iPlayer account is easy. If you are thinking, can I use BBC iPlayer without registering? Then, no, that is not possible.
With a BBC account, you can enjoy watching and listening to BBC iPlayer programmes and BBC Sounds, commenting on articles, adding favorites, playing games, writing reviews, saving recipes, and much more!
It’s free to register a BBC iPlayer account, and you don’t have to do it again for two years on a web browser or app.
Follow these steps to sign up for the BBC iPlayer account in the USA for free:
- Download and sign-up for a VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN because of its high-speed servers).
- Login to ExpressVPN and connect to one of the servers from UK (East – London).
- Now, head to the BBC iPlayer website and click on the “Sign in” option Or directly go to bbc.com/register
- A new page will appear; click the “Register Now” option.
- Now, it will ask about your personal information, including your age, date of birth, name, email address, and postal code. For the Postal Code, use SW1A 1AA for London, E1 OAA for East London, and E16 2JE for Docklands.
- Enter all these details and select the “Register” option, verify your email, and start watching BBC iPlayer free.
Note: While registering to BBC iPlayer from America, you might get a notification asking if you have a TV license. Don’t fret; all you need to do is click the “Yes” option, allowing you to access the content immediately without inquiring any further.
Do you have to Pay to Register for BBC iPlayer in USA?
How much is BBC iPlayer? BBC iPlayer is absolutely free-to-watch app. You don’t need to pay to register and watch BBC programmes on iPlayer if you have a UK TV License, which covers the BBC iPlayer cost.
You need to create an account on BBC iPlayer before you can start streaming it in USA. According to British law, you also need to have a UK TV license, but you don’t need one while living in USA.
You can use a VPN to stream what you want from BBC iPlayer in USA, on any streaming device, as long as you have an account.
After registration, you can watch live and on-demand BBC programs. Live TV options let you watch BBC1 in the USA. Users can download their favourite programs to watch later by creating their watch list.
You can also cancel BBC iPlayer account anytime without any conditions. BBC iPlayer account does not store or share any user’s information without permission.
What are the Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA?
When choosing a VPN for BBC iPlayer, look for features like fast streaming speeds, strong encryption, and UK servers.
We’ve tested 50+ VPN providers for unblocking BBC streaming services in USA, among which we chose the 3 best BBC iPlayer VPNs.
Our top choices include ExpressVPN, known for its lightning-fast speeds and robust security; NordVPN, offering a vast network of UK servers; and Surfshark, which is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.
Each of these VPNs ensures a smooth, buffer-free streaming experience while keeping your online presence secure. Let’s get to know more in detail about the top VPNs that work with BBC iPlayer;
1. ExpressVPN – The Best VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA
ExpressVPN stands out as the best BBC iPlayer VPN in USA, thanks to its high-speed servers and robust unblocking capabilities. It’s an easy-to-use VPN app that ensures your online data is securely encrypted.
ExpressVPN offers a total of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries.
Our tests on ExpressVPN’s East London server showed immediate access to BBC iPlayer in the USA. On a 100 Mbps connection, it delivered an impressive average download speed of 89.78 Mbps, ensuring smooth, buffer-free streaming.
The East London server also worked well for us while watching BBC One in the USA; however, the Docklands server should be avoided because it is the slowest one!
The test results gave us an 89.78 Mbps download speed and 82.22 Mbps upload speed, which is enough for high-end streaming. With this amazingly fast speed, you won’t have any problem accessing BBC TV live in USA.
Besides BBC iPlayer, ExpressVPN’s servers are also effective for accessing other geo-restricted streaming platforms in the USA. This versatility makes it a great choice for users exploring a wide range of content.
It allows up to 8 simultaneous connections per account with a MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) option that allows it to connect to any devices or operating systems that don’t have a specific VPN app.
Moreover, ExpressVPN for BBC iPlayer provides high-end encryption to protect your online activities. Its security features ensure your privacy and data are safe while streaming or browsing.
It offers support for Android, iOS, Linux, and Windows. In addition, ExpressVPN is compatible with PC, PlayStation, Firestick, Roku, Xbox, Apple TV, and Smart TV.
ExpressVPN offers its services at US$6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Exclusive Deals:
ScreenBinge readers can enjoy 3 extra months FREE with ExpressVPN’s 12-month plan (saving of 49%)! A 30-day money-back guarantee covers all plans.
- Unblocks Hulu, Netflix, and other streaming services
- Ultra-fast speed, even streaming in HD or 4K quality
- Reliable servers in 150+ countries
- Allows 8 simultaneous connections
- World-class privacy and security with no activity logs or connection logs
- Built-in password manager, ExpressVPN Keys, to help secure your passwords
- 24/7 live chat support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Slightly more pricer than other VPNs, but you get what you paid for
2. Surfshark – Pocket-Friendly VPN for Streaming BBC iPlayer in America
Surfshark emerges as the most budget-friendly VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in the United States. It comes with an affordable pricing plan of US$2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark combines affordability with efficient unblocking capabilities, making it an ideal choice for cost-conscious streamers.
Surfshark offers its users full access to 3200+ servers in 100+ countries, among which 4 servers are available in UK cities. Surfshark’s servers in London and Manchester have proven to be highly effective for accessing BBC iPlayer.
We tried connecting to the Surfshark UK server, which instantly unblocked BBC iPlayer streaming in the USA. Indeed, Surfshark servers work on BBC iPlayer perfectly well without any throttling. Users also have access to 5 static IPs in the United Kingdom.
We found the Manchester server to be the fastest and the Edinburgh server to be the slowest; the latter should be avoided at any cost!
In addition to BBC iPlayer, Surfshark provides access to various other geo-restricted streaming services in the USA. This versatility is a significant advantage for users exploring diverse content from different regions.
On a standard 100 Mbps connection, Surfshark gave us a download speed of 88.14 Mbps and an upload speed of 83.72 Mbps. The difference in speeds might seem significant, but rest assured, Surfshark servers don’t affect your streaming experience.
Surfshark offers robust security features, including military-grade AES-256 encryption, VPN Kill Switch, and Clean Web, ensuring your streaming activities remain secure and private.
Not just this, it also has a Bypasser and Camouflage Mode to protect your online privacy and give you access to restricted content.
The best part of all: streamers can enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription. This makes it a great choice for streaming enthusiasts to watch BBC iPlayer as much as they want.
Moreover, Surfshark supports Linux, Windows, Routers, Android, iOS, macOS, and gaming consoles. It is also compatible with streaming devices such as PlayStation, Roku, Xbox, Apple TV, Chromecast, and Wi-Fi routers.
Surfshark also comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, making it a risk free choice for users.
Exclusive Deals:
ScreenBinge readers can get 86% off +4 months FREE with Surfshark 24-months plan! All plans are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Affordable prices
- Unlimited simultaneous connection
- Chat support is available 24/7 for problem-solving
- 256-bit AES channel encryption and no logging problems
- Money back guarantee of 30 days is available
- Weak social media presence
3. NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN for BBC iPlayer in USA
NordVPN stands out as a top choice for accessing BBC iPlayer in the USA, thanks to its extensive server network. It boasts over 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries, ensuring easy bypassing of geo-restrictions.
NordVPN’s user-friendly applications simplify server selection, facilitating smooth access to BBC iPlayer.
For the best experience, NordVPN for BBC iPlayer recommends using its servers in London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. However, it’s advisable to avoid the Manchester server due to inconsistent performance.
Its applications are quite intuitive and responsive. The interface allows an easy selection of servers to unblock the restricted streaming sites. We opted for the London server, which effectively accessed BBC iPlayer in USA!
According to our test results, NordVPN performed very well! It gave us a download speed of 86.49 Mbps and an upload speed of 79.42 Mbps, good enough for bufferless streaming!
NordVPN has military-grade AES-256 encryption, a VPN Kill Switch, Clean Web, Bypasser, and Camouflage Mode. These features enhance your online privacy and security while accessing geo-restricted content.
You can enjoy up to 6 simultaneous connections on a single NordVPN account, making it a versatile choice for households with multiple devices.
Moreover, it supports Linux, Windows, Routers, Android, iOS, macOS, and gaming consoles. It is also compatible with streaming devices such as PlayStation, Roku, Xbox, Apple TV, Chromecast, and Wi-Fi routers.
NordVPN’s pricing is competitive, with the 2-year plan available at just US$3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.
In addition, this plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.
Exclusive Deals:
ScreenBinge readers can get 69% on a 2-year plan + 3 months extra with NordVPN Christmas deal plan! Every subscription comes with a guarantee of a refund within 30 days.
- It is one of the largest service networks, which has a huge range of UK servers.
- AES-256 bit encryption is available, IKEv4 and IPsec
- Chat support is available 24/7 for continuous problem-solving help for customers
- 6 simultaneous connections on a single account
- There might be some glitches that may occur while you are using the app from your mobile phone.
- The IP address remains static
What is the Criteria to Choose the Best VPN for BBC iPlayer in USA?
Are you curious to know what VPN should I use for BBC iPlayer? Don’t worry. We have already done the leg work and listed down the top 3 VPN providers to rely on for watching BBC iPlayer in USA.
We have evaluated and finalized these VPNs based on the following criteria:
- Consistently unblocks BBC iPlayer in USA easily and other popular geo-restricted streaming services.
- It provides optimum speed connections for streaming without a lag.
- It offers strong encryption protocols to protect users’ data with a no-log policy.
- Supports all major devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Smart TV, etc.
- Offers at least 5 or more simultaneous connections on a single subscription.
What can I Watch on BBC iPlayer in the USA in 2024?
BBC iPlayer is a treasure trove of British entertainment. From critically acclaimed series to classic movies and live sports events, there’s something for everyone who wonders what to watch on BBC.
You can access all BBC TV channels online on iPlayer and watch most BBC live programmes shortly after they are broadcast on TV.
Don’t miss out on popular reality shows, gripping dramas, and educational documentaries, all available at your fingertips.
What TV Shows does BBC iPlayer have in 2023?
BBC iPlayer is a video-on-demand service of BBC, available on a wide range of devices, and offers a vast collection of BBC iPlayer shows that should be on your watchlist. Here are some of the best shows to watch on BBC iPlayer right now;
What Movies does BBC iPlayer have in 2024?
BBC iPlayer offers a variety of films to watch online in USA. Whether you are looking for the best BBC romance movies, thrillers, comedies, or drama, you can find something to suit your mood and taste in BBC iPlayer films category.
Here’s the list of the best films on iplayer 2024 in the USA.
Halloween | Lady Bird |
The Company You Keep | Make Me Famous |
Before I Go to Sleep | Soldier |
Cardiac Arrest | The Damned United |
King of Thieves | The Shawshank Redemption |
The Omen | King Kong |
The Last Right | The Ones Below |
Does BBC iPlayer Show Live Sports?
Yes, you can stream live sports videos, radio, highlights, and text commentary for all today’s live sports and upcoming events on BBC iPlayer. Here we have listed down the Sports to watch live on BBC iPlayer.
What’s New on BBC iPlayer to watch in February 2024?
Here’s a list of some amazing BBC titles for February 2024:
What Channels Can You Watch on BBC iPlayer in USA?
BBC iPlayer free service also offers live and catch up TV from all of BBC channels. Now you don’t need to worry about where to watch The Gold. You can stream BBC One in USA live online on BBC iPlayer.
Here we have compiled a list of all BBC channels available on iPlayer to watch in USA:
Channels on BBC iPlayer |
|
BBC One | BBC Two |
BBC Three | BBC Four |
CBeebies | CBBC |
BBC News | BBC Parliament |
BBC Alba | S4C |
BBC Scotland | Radio1 |
What Devices does BBC iPlayer USA Work on?
BBC iPlayer is compatible with a wide range of devices. BBC iPlayer offers a large variety of HQ shows, radio shows, and movies free of advertisement and is also available on all major devices.
This flexibility allows you to enjoy British content on your preferred device anytime and anywhere.
You can download BBC iPlayer app in USA on the following supported devices:
PlayStation 5 | Chromecast | Smart TV |
Wii U | Phillips | PlayStation 3 |
Xbox | Boxee | Samsung |
Ubuntu | OS X | Amazon Firestick |
LG Smart TV | Apple TV | Roku |
Windows | Android Nvidia Shield | Sony |
PC | PS5 | iOS devices |
NOW TV Box | Android devices | Amazon Fire TV |
How to Download BBC iPlayer App in USA?
To download the BBC streaming app USA on your device, you must follow this BBC iPlayer download hack, which requires you to connect to ExpressVPN first, and then using a different Google account, visit the Play Store and get the BBC iPlayer app, or else the app won’t show up on your regular account.
How to Download BBC iPlayer App in USA on Android?
BBC iPlayer USA Android app is not available in the Google Play store. You must create a new Google account and set your location in the UK.
Follow the steps below to download BBC iPlayer app in USA on Android:
- Subscribe to a premium VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app on your Android device.
- Connect to a UK server (Recommended: East London server).
- Sign in to Google Play Store with two or more different accounts on your Android device.
- Open the VPN app, go back to the Play Store app, and search for BBC iPlayer.
- Without closing the Play Store, switch to another account.
- Now, search again for the BBC iPlayer app, and this time, the app will appear on the screen to download and install.
- Voila! Now you can start watching BBC iPlayer in USA.
By following the steps above, you can easily stream BBC iPlayer in Australia on Android in USA.
How do I download BBC iPlayer on iOS?
Wondering how to get BBC iPlayer app in USA on iOS devices. Follow these steps to get the BBC iPlayer USA iPhone app:
- Open the VPN app (we highly recommend ExpressVPN) and connect to any server in the UK.
- Go to “Settings” on your iOS device (iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch) and then click on your Apple ID profile.
- Now tap on the “Media and Purchases” option > select “Country/Region” > tap “Change Country or Region” > select “United Kingdom” and then on the “Terms and Conditions” page, tap “Agree.”
- Now, enter all the required details, and for the UK locations, you can provide any address and number from the internet since Apple does not verify it.
- Once your region changes to the United Kingdom, head to App Store and search for the BBC iPlayer app.
- Now download BBC iPlayer in USA on your iPhone and enjoy streaming British content.
How can You Watch BBC iPlayer in USA on Chromecast?
Can I get BBC iPlayer in USA? Yes, if you want to view BBC iPlayer on Chromecast in US then follow the seven steps outlined below to make this feasible using the best BBC iPlayer VPN ultimately:
- A reputable BBC iPlayer VPN subscription is necessary (Recommended: ExpressVPN).
- Install the VPN app on your streaming device and then sign in.
- Connect to one of the UK servers using your VPN (Recommended: East London server).
- Search for “BBC iPlayer” on your device’s “Google Chrome browser” and go to the website.
- Sign in to the BBC iPlayer website, or create a new account if you don’t already have one.
- You may now view any content on iPlayer that you want. To access the “playback screen,” go to the “Cast Icon” menu.
- To cast a video, choose the name of your “Chromecast device” from the list that appears, and then enjoy viewing BBC iPlayer on Chromecast.
By following the steps above, you can easily stream BBC iPlayer on Chromecast in USA.
How to install BBC iPlayer on Firestick in USA?
How to use BBC iPlayer in US? Here’s how can you stream BBC iPlayer online on Firestick in US:
- Turn your Fire Stick on and select the Apps from the Unknown Sources option. Ensure that it is turned on. You can find the option under Settings > Device > Developer Options.
- You must download and install the Downloader app if you don’t already have it.
- Open the VPN app (we highly recommend ExpressVPN), and connect to any server in the UK.
- Launch the VPN application and pick a UK server.
- If “Apps from Unknown Sources” is enabled, restart the Amazon Fire Stick.
- Install the BBC iPlayer app by searching for it from the store.
- Start the BBC iPlayer app and log in with your credentials.
- Start streaming BBC iPlayer on Firestick in USA.
How do I Watch BBC iPlayer on Roku in USA?
BBC iPlayer Roku app is available in Channel Store. However, to watch BBC iPlayer on Roku in the US, you will require a British-origin account first.
Follow these steps once you create a BBC iPlayer USA Roku account.
- Start by resetting your Roku device.
- Now, configure a VPN on your router and establish a VPN connection to a British server (we recommend ExpressVPN for Roku users).
- Unite your Roku device with the TV and sign-up with your UK account.
- Now go to Channel Store, search for iPlayer, and install it.
- Once the iPlayer is installed on Roku > Launch the app > Sign in to your account and enjoy BBC iPlayer USA on Roku.
Note: After setting up a VPN on your router, make sure that the Roku is connected to the same router connection. Otherwise, iPlayer will not allow you to access the content.
How to Watch BBC iPlayer on Smart TV in USA?
How to watch BBC in USA? Here’s how to watch the BBC iPlayer on Smart TV in USA:
- First, You need to change your smart TV region to the UK.
- Now, set up a VPN on your router and connect it to a UK server (Recommended: ExpressVPN).
- Connect your smart TV with the same internet connection on which you set up a VPN.
- Please search for the BBC iPlayer app and add it to your channel list.
- Now open the BBC TV app and Log in to your account.
- Now you can watch BBC iPlayer in USA on your Smart TV.
By following the steps above, you can easily stream BBC iPlayer on Smart TV in USA.
How do I Get BBC iPlayer on Apple TV in USA?
To watch BBC iPlayer on Apple TV in the USA, you must switch your App Store region to the United Kingdom.
This is because the BBC iPlayer USA Apple TV app is unavailable, and you can only download the app from the UK region App Store because of content rights. Here’s how to get BBC iPlayer on Apple TV in USA:
- Connect Apple TV to the TV.
- Now go to “Settings” on Apple TV -> Select “General” option -> Select “Region” option and select United Kingdom.
- Now go to “App Store” and seek the “BBC iPlayer TV app,” download it.
- Now set up a VPN on your router (we recommend ExpressVPN).
- Now connect Apple TV to a VPN via router.
- Open the BBC iPlayer app, log in to your account, and start streaming BBC iPlayer on your Apple TV in the USA.
By following the steps above, you can easily stream BBC iPlayer in Australia on Apple TV in USA.
How to Fix if BBC iPlayer is Not Working in the US?
If you are unable to watch BBC iPlayer in the US and wondering, why is BBC iPlayer not working with VPN? We recommend that you implement the following troubleshooting tips to get around BBC iPlayer Proxy Error:
- Clear your browser’s cache, cookies, and history before trying to stream iPlayer again.
- Turn off your phone’s GPS service.
- Reconnect the VPN to a different server.
- Reach out to your VPN provider’s customer support team.
Moreover do check our detailed guide if BBC iPlayer does not work with a VPN.
FAQs
is BBC iPlayer available in USA?
Can you watch BBC iPlayer in the US without a VPN?
Is it illegal to use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in USA?
Is BBC iPlayer free in USA?
Can I use a free VPN for BBC iPlayer in the USA?
Can you watch BBC iPlayer without the app in USA?
Can I Watch BBC One in America?
Wrapping It Up!
This wraps up our guide on how to stream BBC iPlayer in the USA. With one of the above-mentioned VPNs and steps, you can easily get BBC iPlayer in USA.
While all the listed VPN providers are fully capable of granting you access to BBC iPlayer in USA, if we had to pick the most reliable, optimized, fast, and efficient VPN for the job, it would be ExpressVPN.
Does BBC iPlayer cost money? No, the best part is that BBC app cost is none. Feel free to comment in case you have more questions on how to get BBC iPlayer in USA?