FCC Consumer Guide: Video Description

Availability of video description

FCC rules require local TV station affiliates of ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC located in the top 60 TV markets (see list below) to provide 50 hours per calendar quarter (about 4 hours per week) of video-described prime time and/or children's programming.

• Local TV stations in markets smaller than the top 60 also may provide video description. Check with your local TV stations.

• Many Public Broadcasting System stations also provide video description on a number of programs. Check with your local PBS station.

The top five non-broadcast networks - Disney Channel, History, TBS, TNT and USA - must provide 50 hours per calendar quarter (about 4 hours per week) of video-described prime time and/or children's programming.

• Subscription TV systems (offered over cable, satellite or the telephone network) with 50,000 or more subscribers must carry video description.

• Subscription TV systems with fewer than 50,000 subscribers also may provide video description. Check with your subscription TV provider.