Google-owned YouTube is raising the minimum age for going live on the platform, having officially (but quietly) confirmed the change via its YouTube Help support page. YouTube doesn’t mention the reason for this change, but it wouldn’t be surprising if it had something to do with concerns over child safety. Once this change takes place, creators on YouTube will need to be at least 16 years old if they want to live stream on the platform. This includes the Android app and iOS app in addition to the webpage. As of right now, you only need to be 13 to go live on YouTube.
These new age restrictions mention that users under the new minimum age trying to live stream on YouTube could face penalties if caught. Penalties could include temporary loss of the ability to live stream. YouTube could also impose lighter penalties, such as losing access to live chat or other features. Chances are the penalty will change on a case-by-case basis. Likely depending on whether or not it was a first offense.
The minimum age for live streaming on YouTube will go up on July 22
For now, YouTube’s age restrictions for live streaming will remain the same. Beginning July 22, however, creators under the age of 16 will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian to continue going live on the platform. “If you’re under 16 and an adult is willing to live stream with you, you can give the adult access to your channel as an editor, manager or owner,” YouTube says.
This is bound to be a drastic change for some creators. This exact reason is also likely why YouTube isn’t making the change until late July. That’s almost a month from now, which should give younger creators time to get accustomed to the new rules. In other words, it should give them enough time to prepare for the change. Whether that’s figuring out new stream schedules or altering the flow of content. Creators under the new minimum age will also need to ensure that a parent is “visibly present” in the stream. YouTube is very clear on that point.
