What is an RMG Licence? The Complete UK Guide for Competition Businesses

If you’re running or thinking about launching a competition platform like Rafflemaster Competitions, you’ve probably heard the term RMG Licence.

But what does it actually mean — and do you need one?

Let’s break it down clearly 👇

What Does RMG Stand For?

RMG stands for Real Money Gaming.

However — and this is important — an “RMG Licence” is NOT an official UK gambling licence issued by the government.

Instead, it usually refers to:

👉 Approval from advertising platforms like Facebook/Instagram (Meta)
👉 Permission to promote competitions, raffles, or prize-based offers

These platforms require verification to ensure your business is legitimate before allowing ads.

Official UK Gambling Licence (The One That Matters)

In the UK, real gambling licences are issued by the:

👉 UK Gambling Commission

🔗 https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/

If your business offers true gambling services, you must apply for an official licence here:
👉 https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/service/apply-for-an-operating-licence

What is a Remote Gambling Licence (Actual UK Law)?

A Remote Gambling Licence is required if you:

• Offer online betting, casino, or bingo

• Take money for games of chance

• Allow users to gamble via website, app, or phone

👉 UK definition of remote gambling:
https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences

👉 Legal explanation of remote gambling:
https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/authorities/guide/page/la-bulletin-october-2019-feature-article-remote-gambling-almost-everything

In simple terms:

If users stake money and the outcome is based on chance → you need a licence.

Do Competition Websites Like Rafflemaster Need One?

This is where Rafflemaster sits differently 👇

Many UK competition sites operate under Prize Competition Law, not gambling law.

You typically DO NOT need a gambling licence if:

✔ You include a skill-based question
✔ You offer a free entry route (postal entry)
✔ The outcome isn’t purely chance

This keeps the platform outside traditional gambling regulations.

What the “RMG Licence” Means for Your Business

For competition businesses, an RMG licence usually means:

👉 Approval from Meta (Facebook & Instagram) to run ads
👉 Proof your business is compliant and legitimate
👉 Protection against ad account bans

Without this approval, platforms can restrict or shut down your ads.

RNG, Fairness & Compliance

For licensed gambling businesses:

• Games must use Random Number Generators (RNGs)

• Systems must meet strict technical standards

• Results must be independently tested

👉 UK technical standards:
https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/licensees-and-businesses/guide/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards

Why This Matters for Players

Understanding RMG and licensing helps users:

✔ Know if a site is regulated gambling or a competition platform
✔ Understand fairness and transparency
✔ Play with confidence

Rafflemaster’s Position

At Rafflemaster Competitions, we operate within UK legal frameworks by:

• Using skill-based entry formats

• Offering free entry routes

• Promoting responsible participation

• Maintaining transparency across all draws

We are building a brand based on trust, fairness, and long-term sustainability.

Final Thoughts

👉 An RMG Licence (Meta approval) is about advertising
👉 A Remote Gambling Licence (UKGC) is about legal gambling

They are NOT the same thing — and understanding the difference is key to running a compliant competition business.

Helpful Resources

• UK Gambling Commission: https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/

• Apply for a Gambling Licence: https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/service/apply-for-an-operating-licence

• Gambling Laws & Guidance: https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/licensees-and-businesses

Rafflemaster Competitions

Play smart. Stay compliant. Build the future.