How to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA [Updated February 2024]

Avatar of Amelia Warner
Last Updated by on February 8, 2023

Is BBC iPlayer available in USA? No, BBC iPlayer is not available in USA, but you can watch BBC iPlayer in USA by using a reliable VPN. We Recommend ExpressVPN.

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It is a top-notch English streaming service in the UK. You can watch your favorite series on the BBC iPlayer, like Peaky Blinders Season 6 and Gentleman Jack Season 2.


How to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA 2024

  1. Subscribe to a VPN service (We recommend ExpressVPN).
  2. Download and install its App.
  3. Visit its official website, create your account, and start streaming the BBC iPlayer in USA.


Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA?

BBC iPlayer is a top-notch British streaming service limited to UK residents only, as its content is geo-restricted because of licensing and copyright agreements.

So whenever you try to access BBC iPlayer Outside the UK, you see the message below.

BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to right issues.

adult swim geolocation error

So now the question is, is it possible to watch BBC iPlayer in USA? The answer is YES! All you need is a top-notch VPN connection with the fastest servers in the UK to ensure uninterrupted streaming. We recommend you use ExpressVPN to watch BBC iPlayer in USA.


3 Best VPNs to Access BBC iPlayer in USA [Quick Overview February 2024]

  1. ExpressVPN It comes with lightning fast VPN connection to ensure you Ultra HD streaming from anywhere at any time. You can access 3000+ global servers, including 20+ location servers in the US. In addition to this, you can save up to 49% on its 1-year plan, cutting the original cost to only $6.71/month.
  2. Surfshark Features smart DNS to unblock streaming platforms and channels that don’t support the app. You can access 3200+ global servers at low prices, including 20+ US servers. So you will always have something to watch when the cost is $2.30 a month. In addition, you can get an 82% discount on its 2-year plan and an unlimited device connection.
  3. NordVPN It ensures reliable VPN connection & buffer-free streaming from anywhere. With many servers, you can stream restricted content without violating your privacy. The subscription comes with easy access to 5000+ global servers, including 1970+ servers in the US. In addition, a huge 68% discount is available on its 2-year plan, so you will only need to pay $3.71 a month.


How to Choose the Best VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

When it comes to finding a VPN for watching BBC iPlayer in USA, there are many options to find the absolute best VPN for BBC iPlayer in USA, and we looked for the following important features:

  • A VPN that can consistently get around BBC iPlayer geo-restrictions & able to access other popular streaming sites.
  • VPN service with a large server network and the most reliable UK servers available.
  • Top-notch encryption and security features.
  • Does not log user activity.
  • A VPN with user-friendly, easy-to-use smartphone and desktop apps.
  • Multi-Platform compatibility (Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, etc.

Top Choice VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA [Detailed Guide February]

Below we have prepared a list of VPNs that are our top choices for watching BBC iPlayer in USA.


ExpressVPN — Best VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

  • Ultra-Fast speed with unlimited bandwidth for bufferless streaming.
  • 3000+ Servers in 90+ Countries, including 20+ location servers in US.
  • Comes with five simultaneous device connections
  • Compatible with Windows, MacOS, iOS, Smart TV, Linux, and more.

ExpressVPN has incredible server speed to ensure smooth and high-quality streaming from anywhere. It has 3000+ optimized servers installed in 90+ countries and 20+ location servers in the US only. It comes with Ultra fast connection speed, allowing users to have top-quality streaming without error.

Its high-speed servers can easily unblock geo-restricted streaming platforms, encrypt your data, bypass the IP tracking system, and provide unlimited bandwidth for bufferless streaming.

Regarding device compatibility, ExpressVPN has a dedicated VPN app designed for all compatible devices and routers. It offers five simultaneous device connections that you can run on macOS, iOS, Android, Fire devices, browsers, gaming consoles, routers, smart TVs, and more.

Now, let's talk about its price!

Its yearly subscription will cost you $6.67/month, with an extra three months for free. Furthermore, you can connect up to 5 simultaneous devices with a single subscription.


unblock bbc iplayer with expressvpn

Unblock BBC iPlayer in USA with Expressvpn


Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with all streaming sites
  • Connect up to 6 devices
  • It works in China & UAE
  • Follows Zero Log Policy
  • 7-day free trial

Cons

  • A bit costly service


Surfshark — Low-Cost VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

  • Comes with SmartDNS to unblock content on non-native devices
  • 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including 20+ location servers in the US.
  • Compatible with Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux,  smart TVs, and more
  • Offers minimum price of about $2.30/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark's minimum price tag makes it the most wallet-friendly VPN for streaming. It is equipped with 3000+ global servers in 100 countries, including 20+ location servers in the US. Surfshark stands out among all is non, but it's a Smart DNS server that enables users to access geo-restricted content without a native app.

Moreover, a Surfshark subscription ensures unlimited device connection on all compatible devices, whether Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, smart TVs, or more.

Regarding price, you can expect to have $2.30/month, saving 82% on its two-year plan along with two extra months. It offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, ultra HD streaming, Unlimited bandwidth, and Zero log policy, all wrapped under its modest pricing plan.


unblock bbc iplayer with surfshark

Unblock BBC iPlayer in USA with Surfshark


Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with all streaming sites
  • Connect up to 6 devices
  • It works in China & UAE
  • Follows Zero Log Policy
  • 7-day free trial

Cons

  • Poor Customer Support
  • Some user experience low speed


NordVPN — Reliable VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

  • NordLynx Protocol to help boost streaming experience
  • 5000+ Servers in 60 Countries including 17 location servers in the US.
  • Comes with 6 simultaneous device connections.
  • Compatible with Android, Windows, iOS, Linus, Smart TVs & Routers.

When it comes to reliability, you won't find any other option better than NordVPN!

Apart from its giant web of VPN servers, including 17 server locations in the US, NordVPN has recently launched NordLynx. This new-generation VPN protocol provides an improved connection for an uninterrupted streaming experience.

NordVPN has SmartPlay integration that unblocks various content with its IP spoofing feature. Like Surfshark, NordVPN incorporates its dedicated SmartDNS service that can easily unblock geo-restricted content on devices with no native app.

You can connect Nord with almost all devices, including windows, macOS, Android, Apple, Smart TV, Xbox, PS series, and more. The cost will drastically reduce if you opt for its two-year plan, which will cost you $3.49/per month, six device connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.


unblock bbc iplayer with nordvpn

Unblock BBC iPlayer in USA with Nordvpn


Pros

  • 5000+ global servers
  • Secure VPN System
  • Zero Logs Policy
  • Works in China and the UAE
  • 24/7 Live Chat Support
  • Military grade Encryption
  • Private DNS System

Cons

  • Little Expensive
  • No app for router


Can I Watch BBC iPlayer in USA with a Free VPN?

In the United States, a free VPN can unblock BBC iPlayer. We would never recommend using a free VPN service because they have limited servers and a large user base.

In addition, these free VPNs provide poor speeds when streaming the BBC in the United States or any other geo-blocked service.

Also, even if you discover a free VPN that can unblock BBC iPlayer in USA, you will experience extreme buffering and poor video quality because free VPNs have data limits.

So for that reason, we strongly recommend using a paid VPN service to avoid potential risks.


Best streaming service alternatives for BBC iPlayer

There are more than 25 alternatives to BBC iPlayer for various platforms, including iPhone, iPad, Online/Web-based, Android, and Android Tablet.

Of course, the best alternative is Netflix. However, it’s not free, so you can try Apple TV if you want a free alternative. Also, other great paid apps like Hulu, Disney+, HBO Now, Amazon Prime Video, etc.


How to watch BBC iPlayer for free?

BBC iPlayer is totally free of charge; to begin streaming your favorite shows on BBC iPlayer in USA, you simply need to subscribe to a trusted VPN and create a BBC iPlayer account. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.


How to Subscribe to BBC iPlayer in USA?

Follow this guide to subscribe to BBC iPlayer in USA or anywhere else.

  1. Start by subscribing to a credible VPN of your choice. ExpressVPN is our top recommendation.
  2. Install and download the ExpressVPN app on your device.
  3. Connect to a UK server from the list of servers in the VPN app.
  4. Visit BBC iPlayer’s official website or app.
  5. Go to the sign-in option.
  6. Now click on the ‘Register’ option.
  7. It will take you to the signup page, where you must fill in your personal information.
  8. After providing the above information, Use SW1A 1AA for London, E1 OAA for East London, and E16 2JE for Docklands as postal codes.
  9. Once you have provided all the details, select the “Register” option, verify your email, and you have successfully subscribed to BBC iPlayer in USA.

bbc iplayer sign up page

Based on your age, they will ask for the following information.

If you’re over 18 and in the UK

You only need to provide your email address, postcode, and password.

If you’re between 13 and 18 and in the UK.

You only have to provide your email address, password, and date of birth.

If you’re under 13

They will ask you for a username (in place of an email address), password, and date of birth.

If you’re in Ireland or outside the UK

They will ask for your age, email address, country, and password.

If you’re in Ireland or outside the UK and under 16

A BBC account will not allow you to subscribe to the child-specific content available in the UK. In addition, it will not let you create a BBC account outside the UK, but luckily using a VPN, you can do that.


How much does the BBC iPlayer cost?

BBC iPlayer is a totally free-of-cost streaming service that lets you watch live and recorded television from all the BBC stations.

BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Four, CBBC, BBC News, and Radio 1 are all included. Unfortunately, the BBC iPlayer is only available to citizens of the United Kingdom.

However, by subscribing to a premium VPN, you can stream BBC iPlayer in USA or anywhere in the world.


Is BBC iPlayer not working with VPN?

Please proceed with these steps one at a time to troubleshoot the problem and see why BBC IPlayer isn’t working. Make sure the issue has been resolved after each step. If not, move on to the next step.

  1. Open your VPN’s server selection menu and connect to a new UK server. If it still doesn’t work, try at least one more server.
  2. Clear Your Tracking Cookies You can usually find this under a settings tab labeled something like “Privacy & Security” (Firefox and Chrome), “Clear Browsing Data” (Edge), or “Manage Website Data” (Safari). Next, select the option to clear all cookies.
  3. Try fully closing your browser, reopen it and check access to BBC iPlayer again.
  4. Open your VPN app and navigate to its settings. Enable the “leak protection” option or “IPv6 leak protection.”
  5. Match your device time zone with the UK, and The UK uses Greenwich Mean Time (UTC+0) or British Summer Time (UTC+1), depending on the time of year.
  6. If you are using a smart TV or smartphone, try installing your VPN on a computer and then load BBC iPlayer on your desktop browser.

Does Smart DNS proxy work with BBC iPlayer?

Yes. You can use the Smart DNS service to stream BBC iPlayer, from abroad but aren’t able to install a VPN; you can use the Smart DNS service.

Plenty of these can unblock BBC iPlayer, but it’s important to remember that DNS services aren’t able to encrypt your data the way a VPN does.

Also, depending on where you want to watch, you will need to manually modify your DNS settings whenever you want to switch locations.


Is it legal to stream BBC iPlayer in USA?

Yes. It is legal to watch BBC iPlayer in USA using a VPN. But, you need to be covered by a TV license if you watch or record programs as they’re being shown on TV or live on an online TV service, or download or watch any BBC programs on BBC iPlayer.

This pertains to any device or provider you use.

Without a TV license, BBC iPlayer will attempt to stop you from streaming abroad using its advanced VPN-detection features. If BBC iPlayer discovers that you’re using a VPN, you’ll just be asked to turn it off.

However, we have not heard instances of anyone having their account banned for watching this streaming service using a VPN in the USA.


Devices Compatible With BBC iPlayer in USA

BBC iPlayer is available on all major devices, so if you want to download BBC iPlayer app in the US or anywhere outside UK on your device, then here’s how you can do it:


For Android users

  1. Open ExpressVPN App on your Android device.
  2. Connect to a server in the United Kingdom.
  3.  Sign up for a new Google account and log in.
  4. Search for BBC iPlayer App in the Play Store.
  5. Install it and sign up for a free account.
  6. Congratulations, BBC iPlayer, is now available on your Android device.

For iOS Users

  1. Begin by changing your Apple ID region to the United Kingdom in Settings > Network.
  2. Open ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
  3. Connect to a server in the United Kingdom.
  4. Search for BBC iPlayer in the Apple App Store.
  5. Install the App and log in to your account to start streaming your favorite shows.

For Roku Users

  1. Download and install ExpressVPN and connect it to your Wi-Fi router.
  2. Connect to the UK server.
  3. Now insert your Roku stick into your smart TV through the HDMI port.
  4. Turn on your device and select BBC iPlayer on Roku home screen, and you are good to go

For PS3/PS4 Users

  1. Set up your console.
  2. Launch ExpressVPN App.
  3. Log in to connect with the UK server.
  4. Go to the category of TV/Video Services.
  5. From the list of alternatives, look for "BBC iPlayer."
  6. Select "Get" from the drop-down menu.
  7. BBC iPlayer has now been added to your "My Channels" list.

For Xbox Users

  1. Set up and open your Xbox.
  2. Download ExpressVPN.
  3. Log in to connect with the server in UK
  4. From the Xbox menu, select "My games & apps."
  5. Search for "BBC iPlayer" in the "Xbox Store."
  6. That's it! Click the "Install" button.

For Kodi Users

  1. Install a VPN that is compatible with Crackle TV. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect your Kodi device to your VPN.
  3. Download the VPN software to your computer, save it to a USB stick, and plug it into your Kodi device.
  4. On your Kodi device, go to Settings, System Settings, and Add-ons.
  5. Now toggle on Unknown Sources.
  6. Install the VPN app on your Kodi device. Connect to a server in the United Kingdom after that.
  7. Go to Kodi's home screen by turning on your TV.
  8. Lastly, install the BBC iPlayer add-on on Kodi to start watching.

For Firestick Users

  1. Start up your Firestick and go to Search.
  2. Switch to unknown sources and download ExpressVPN, then connect to the UK server.
  3. Enter the word "BBC iPlayer" and press enter.
  4. The 'BBC iPlayer app for Fire TV Stick' will appear in the search results.
  5. The App will be downloaded after you click 'Get.'
  6. After the BBC iPlayer app has been installed, open it.
  7. Open the BBC iPlayer app and sign up/log in with your credentials.
  8. Now you can start watching BBC iPlayer on Firestick.

For Apple TV Users

  1. Choose a VPN service that allows you to use Smart DNS. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Find your Smart DNS addresses, go to your Apple TV's Settings menu, and select Network at the bottom of the page.
  3. Choose your Network by pressing the Wi-Fi button.
  4. Then go to DNS Configuration and choose Manual Configuration.
  5. Connect your Apple TV to a UK server by typing in your DNS address and restarting it.
  6. On your Apple TV, you are done and download and install the BBC iPlayer app.

For Smart TV Users

  1. Download and install a premium VPN. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect to a UK-based server
  3. Go into your Wi-Fi router's admin.
  4. Connect it to your VPN network.
  5. Download the BBC iPlayer app on your smart TV, and create a free account to start watching.

For PC Users

  1. On your computer, download and install a premium VPN. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect to a UK-based server.
  3. Go to the BBC iPlayer website, sign up for an account, or log in.
  4. If you're still having trouble watching BBC iPlayer, delete your cookies and cache before logging in.

What if I don’t have the BBC iPlayer app installed?

If you don’t have the BBC iPlayer app, you can still access it by visiting the website. To stream BBC iPlayer, please visit bbc.co.uk/iplayer.

When using the website on your smartphone or tablet, you can:

  • Play on-demand programs via WiFi or mobile data.
  • Play live TV channels via WiFi or mobile data.

What to Watch on BBC iPlayer USA?

For your convenience, we have prepared a list of the Best BBC iPlayer movies, TV shows, channels, and top titles that you can watch in the USA by using a credible VPN:


BBC iPlayer Channels

  • BBC One (Live Stream)
  • BBC Two
  • CBBC
  • BBC Four
  • BBC News
  • Cbeebies
  • BBC Three
  • BBC Scotland
  • S4C
  • BBC Parliament
  • BBC Alba
  • Radio 1

Best BBC iPlayer Shows

  • The Missing
  • I May Destroy You
  • Life on Mars
  • Responsible Child
  • The Salisbury Poisonings
  • Traces
  • Torchwood
  • Moving On
  • The Fades
  • Don’t Take My Baby
  • The Luminaries
  • Harlots

Best BBC iPlayer Movies

  • The Remains of the Day (1993)
  • All Is True (2018)
  • Horrible Histories: The Movie (2019)
  • King of Kings (1961)
  • Into the Woods (2014)
  • Shrek: The Ghost of Lord Farquaad (2014)
  • The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
  • The Lion King (1994)
  • The Beguiled (2017)
  • Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)
  • When Eight Bells Toll (1971)
  • The Imitation Game (2014)
  • Funny Girl (1968)

BBC iPlayer Upcoming Shows on February 2024

  • HAPPY VALLEY
  • WATERLOO ROAD
  • THIS TOWN
  • SILENT WITNESS
  • SHUGGIE BAIN
  • BOILING POINT
  • MAYFLIES
  • THE WOMAN IN THE WALL
  • CHAMPION
  • TEN POUND POMS
  • TWO TONE (working title)
  • CALL THE MIDWIFE
  • THE GOLD
  • RAIN DOGS
  • BEST INTERESTS
  • GREAT EXPECTATIONS
  • MARIE ANTOINETTE

In which country is the BBC iPlayer available?

Only UK residents have access to BBC iPlayer. British ex-pats living in the US, Australia, Canada, Germany, UAE, or Spain cannot watch any content on BBC. However, by using a premium VPN, you can access BBC iPlayer.


FAQs on BBC iPlayer in USA


Is BBC iPlayer available in USA?

No, but you can access BBC iPlayer in USA using a reliable VPN, and we recommend ExpressVPN.


Can I watch BBC iPlayer abroad?

Yes, you can watch BBC iPlayer abroad. You have to download and set up a VPN on your router or computer. Our top recommendation is ExpressVPN.


Is it illegal to use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer?

No, using a VPN to stream BBC iPlayer is not illegal. On the other hand, using a VPN is against BBC iPlayer’s Terms of Service. However, this does not make it illegal. If you’re detected using a VPN, the worst that may happen is that BBC will suspend your account.


How do I make a BBC iPlayer account outside the UK?

It is not difficult to create an account outside the UK. Visit bbc.co.uk to sign up for a new account. However, insert the United Kingdom in the field where it says “Country”. You must also find a UK postal code online.


How can BBC iPlayer know I’m not in the UK?

Because your IP address is not British, the problem goes away when you set up a VPN and change your IP address to a British IP address. Now BBC iPlayer can not detect your country.


Will BBC iPlayer know that I have a VPN?

BBC iPlayer has invested many resources in preventing VPN use. As a result, the VPN can no longer unblock the content if the servers are blacklisted or blocked. However, BBC iPlayer cannot detect VPNs such as ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, etc.


Is BBC iPlayer free?

Yes, BBC iPlayer is a free service. However, you must purchase a VPN subscription if you want to watch BBC iPlayer from the USA. Our top recommendation is ExpressVPN.


How can I watch BBC iPlayer in USA?

Thanks to VPNs, people in the United States and worldwide can now watch BBC iPlayer. Install a VPN on your network or computer, connect to a server in the UK, establish an account on BBC iPlayer, and watch your favorite shows.


Is BBC Available on DirectTV?

The BBC news channel is available in more than 200 countries. In the US, you can watch the BBC on various cable TV providers, and DirectTV is one of those providers.


How do I bypass BBC iPlayer restrictions?

BBC iPlayer is a top-notch British streaming service limited to UK residents. However, with the help of a premium VPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions in the US or anywhere globally. ExpressVPN is our ‌#1 recommendation.


What else can I use a VPN for?

Besides unblocking BBC iPlayer, a VPN can also unblock numerous other streaming services, such as Netflix US, HBO, Hulu, Disney+, and Prime Video.


Can you watch BBC iPlayer without the internet?

Yes, you can watch programs wherever you are by downloading them from the BBC iPlayer, whether at home or on the go. So even if your broadband is buffering or you do not have access to a Wi-Fi connection, you can still enjoy your favorite shows on BBC iPlayer in USA.


Can you have more than one user signed in?

Yes, you have. BBC iPlayer allows you to create up to four profiles on each device.


Can you watch BBC iPlayer in USA?

No, you cannot watch BBC iPlayer in USA because it is geo-restricted. However, by using a VPN, you can access BBC iPlayer in USA or anywhere abroad.


Wrapping It Up!

You can watch BBC iPlayer without any interruption in the USA. To watch your favorite British content, you must subscribe to VPNs such as ExpressVPN, SurfShark, or NordVPN. The best part is that they all offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

We have covered every detail you need to know about watching BBC iPlayer in USA. However, if you still face difficulties, please leave your questions regarding BBC iPlayer or VPN in the comment section below!


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