YouTube is raising the minimum age for solo live streaming to 16 years old, a change set to take effect on July 22, 2025. This new rule means creators aged 13 to 15 will no longer be allowed to stream alone and must have an adult visibly present during their live broadcasts. The platform aims to tighten safety measures for younger users and clarify who can participate in live streaming.
New age restrictions for live streaming on YouTube
Previously, YouTube allowed users as young as 13 to live stream alone, provided they followed specific rules. Children under 13 already had to stream with an adult present. This adult accompaniment requirement now extends to all creators aged 13 to 15. If these younger creators attempt to stream without an adult, YouTube may turn off their live chat and temporarily restrict their account’s live streaming features. Repeated violations could lead to streams being removed or even account termination.
On its Help support page, YouTube explained that creators under 16 who want to continue live streaming must grant an adult access to their channel as an editor, manager, or owner. This allows the adult to start the stream and be visibly involved. The platform emphasises that adults co-streaming with minors must be present and actively participating.
Why YouTube is changing its live streaming rules
The update reflects growing concerns about child safety and harassment risks during live streams. YouTube has long restricted live streaming for users under 13, but extending these rules to teens aged 13 to 15 marks a firmer stance on protecting minors. The platform warns that anyone violating the new age limit risks having their live chat disabled, losing live streaming access temporarily, or facing account termination if they try to circumvent restrictions by using another channel.
YouTube’s TeamYouTube account also confirmed that creators affected by the new rules will receive email notifications if their streams are taken down. The company has not publicly explained why the policy is changing, but the move is part of broader efforts to create safer online environments for younger users.
This policy change will impact many young creators who have built large audiences but now need adult supervision to continue live streaming. It also signals YouTube’s commitment to more precise boundaries and better protections for minors engaging with live content on the platform.