How to Go Live on TikTok
Quick answer
Tap the Create button, swipe the bottom carousel to LIVE, add a title, then tap Go LIVE. You need at least 1,000 followers and must be 18 or older. If the LIVE tab does not appear, you have not met one of those requirements yet.
Step by step
- 1
Open the TikTok app and tap the Create button
It is the plus icon in the center of the bottom bar.
- 2
Swipe the bottom carousel to LIVE
The carousel under the record button lists Camera, Templates, and LIVE. The LIVE tab only shows if your account qualifies.
- 3
Add a title for your stream
Keep it short and specific. The title shows in the For You feed and in LIVE discovery, so it decides who taps in.
- 4
Set a cover image and adjust settings
Pick a cover, choose effects or filters, and toggle comment settings or moderators from the settings icon before you start.
- 5
Tap Go LIVE
A short countdown runs and your stream starts. Followers get a notification and your profile shows a LIVE badge.
- 6
End the stream when you are done
Tap the X in the corner and confirm. TikTok then shows viewer and gift analytics for the session.
Worth knowing
- You need 1,000+ followers and must be at least 18 to go live.
- Streaming from a computer requires TikTok LIVE Studio and its own separate eligibility.
Doing this for a brand, not just an account?
Live sessions reward accounts that show up on a schedule, and a planned content calendar is what keeps a weekly LIVE slot from slipping.
Common questions
How many followers do I need to go live on TikTok?
The standard requirement is 1,000 followers, plus a minimum age of 18. TikTok has tested lower thresholds in some regions, but 1,000 is the number to plan around.
Why is the LIVE option not showing for me?
Either you are under 1,000 followers, your account age does not meet the 18+ requirement, or you have recent community guideline strikes. There is no manual application to unlock it early.
How long can a TikTok LIVE last?
Streams can run for several hours, and most creators end well before any cap matters. Session length is not the constraint; keeping viewers engaged is.
Can I go live on TikTok from a desktop?
Yes, through TikTok LIVE Studio for Windows, which supports screen sharing and overlays. It has its own eligibility check, so access on mobile does not guarantee access there.