Licensing rounds

We hold offshore and onshore licensing rounds, inviting applications from companies and making awards to those bids that promise to maximise economic recovery of the UK’s oil and gas resources.

The 31th Offshore Licensing Round

On 10th July 2018, we invited applications for licences in the 31th Offshore Licensing Round. Applications will be accepted up to 14.00 on the 7th November 2018 through the LARRY system on the Energy Portal. 

Update 8 August 2018 - As set out in the Round Opening Press Notice for the 31st Offshore Licensing Round, the OGA offered companies the opportunity to propose additional blocks in more mature areas, for possible inclusion where applicants intend to commit to a substantial firm work programme.  The OGA has considered the proposals received and has added a further 13 blocks or part-blocks to the acreage available for applications in the 31st Offshore Licensing Round.  Further details can be found in the updated Questions and Answers.

Dates of previous and indicative timings for future licence rounds

Dates of previous and indicative timings for future offshore licence round events, covering a five year total period,are detailed below:-

30th Offshore Licensing Round

On 25 July 2017, we invited applications for licences in the 30th Offshore Licensing Round.  The round closed for applications on 21 November 2017. On 23 May 2018 we announced the offer of awards in the 30th Offshore Licensing Round.

29th Offshore Licensing Round

On 27 July 2016, we invited applications for licences in the 29th Offshore Licensing Round. The Round closed on 26 October 2016. On 23 March 2017 we announced the offer of awards in the 29th Offshore Licensing Round.

2016 Offshore Supplementary Round

On 6 December 2016, we invited applications for licences in the Offshore 2016 Supplementary Round.  

28th Offshore Licensing Round

On 6 November 2014, we invited applications for licences in the 28th Offshore Licensing Round.