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TikTok LIVE Rules & Setup
TikTok LIVE is real-time streaming — powerful for engagement and monetization, but with strict rules because nothing can be edited once you're live.
Eligibility
- You must be 18 or older (age may be verified with ID/selfies).
- You need a minimum follower count — typically ~1,000 followers, but this varies by region and account standing.
- Your account must be in good standing (no serious Community Guidelines violations).
- Accounts under review or with repeated violations may have LIVE features restricted.
Ways to go LIVE
- Mobile app — tap Create (+) → LIVE. Simplest option.
- TikTok LIVE Studio (Windows) — official desktop app; requires applying for access.
- OBS Studio — stream via Server URL + Stream Key provided by TikTok (macOS, Windows, Linux).
- TikTok web — "Go LIVE" option on desktop browser where available.
Rules specific to LIVE
- No pre-recorded streams — streaming recordings is not recommended and can be flagged; stay on camera and interactive throughout.
- Copyright — never stream movies, TV, sports broadcasts, pay-per-view, or other creators' content. Avoid screen-capturing/TV-casting video sources entirely.
- Topics to avoid — sexual content or innuendo, hate speech, harassment, personal information exposure, dangerous acts.
- You're responsible for everything — including third-party tools like voice-to-text or comment overlays. If a tool reads out a harmful comment, you're accountable. Monitor your tools.
- Multi-guest LIVE — you're responsible for guests; rule-breaking guests get removed and you may lose guest features.
Safety & moderation tools
- Set an "About me" description and clear room guidelines before going live.
- Use audience controls (18+ only), keyword filters, comment controls.
- Add moderators to help manage chat; you can mute, block, or report viewers.
- Pause the LIVE if you need to step away rather than leaving dead air.
Source: TikTok LIVE help center & LIVE Safety Guide. Requirements vary by region.