You can watch PBS for free using a digital antenna, the official streaming app, or a web browser. Because PBS is a public broadcaster, you do not need a paid cable subscription to access live local stations or recent on-demand episodes.
Use an Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna
In most regions, you can pick up your local PBS broadcast directly through the airwaves.
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Connect a Digital Antenna to your television’s coaxial port.
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Run a channel scan through your television settings.
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Watch live television broadcasts without an internet connection, account login, or monthly bill.
Download the PBS App
The PBS App provides free access to both live local broadcasts and a rotating library of Video-on-Demand (VOD) content.
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Device Support: Download the app on a Smart TV (Samsung, Vizio), a streaming device (Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV), or a mobile device (iOS, Android).
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Account Setup: You must create a free PBS account website pbs.org/tv or sign in using a Google, Facebook, or Apple login to activate the app.
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Live TV: The app includes a Livestream of your local station based on your current geographic location.
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On-Demand: You can stream most new episodes for free for about two weeks after their initial air date.
Stream on Your Web Browser
If you prefer watching on a computer, you can stream directly from the PBS website.
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Navigate to PBS.org using an updated Web Browser like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.
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Sign in with your free account to watch the live local feed or catch up on recent episodes.
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Stream PBS KIDS
PBS provides a separate, dedicated platform entirely for children’s programming.
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Download the PBS KIDS Video App on your mobile device or television, or visit pbskids.org on a computer.
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Stream the live 24/7 channel and thousands of on-demand videos.
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You do not need to create an account or sign in to watch PBS KIDS content.
These methods give you immediate, free access to current broadcasts and recent episodes. If you eventually want to watch older seasons or the complete historical archive, you will need PBS Passport. This is a premium benefit provided to viewers who donate to their local station. Start with the free app or an antenna, and only consider the paid upgrade if you want deeper access to the catalog.
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FAQs
Do You Need an Account to Watch?
To use the main PBS App, you must create a free PBS account or sign in using a Google, Facebook, or Apple login. However, you do not need an account to watch children’s shows on the PBS KIDS Video App or website.
Can You Watch Live Local Television?
Yes. The PBS App and website offer a Livestream of your local station. The platform uses your device location or IP Address to determine your geographic region and connect you to the correct local broadcast.
Why Are Some Episodes Locked?
PBS holds digital distribution rights for a limited time. You can typically stream new episodes for free for about two weeks after their original television broadcast. After this window closes, the episodes move behind a paywall and require PBS Passport, a premium benefit for local station donors.
Can You Download Shows for Offline Viewing?
No. PBS does not allow you to download video files to your device. You must maintain an active Internet Connection or Wi-Fi Network to stream any live or on-demand content.
Does the App Work Outside the United States?
No. PBS restricts its streaming media to the United States and its territories due to international licensing agreements. If you travel abroad, the platform blocks your access to the Livestream and on-demand videos.