How to Go Live on TikTok: A Guide

TikTok is full of fun and addicting features, but did you know that you can also go live on TikTok? It’s a great way to build connections and interact with your followers in real time. Not to mention, it’s one of the best ways to attract new followers, so if you’re looking to get TikTok famous, going live is an absolute must.

Read on to discover exactly how to go live on TikTok, the requirements you need to meet (like how many followers on TikTok) to go live, and when to do it to see optimal results.

Here's How to Go Live on TikTok

You may have heard that you need to reach a certain number of followers before you can host a TikTok livestream. So how many followers do you need to go live on TikTok?

In order to have access to the livestream function, you must be at least 16 years old and have at least 1,000 followers.

How do you go live on TikTok once you meet these requirements?

Step 1: Open up the TikTok app.

Step 2: Tap the plus sign at the bottom of the screen, as you would to record a new TikTok.

Step 3: Under the record button, you’ll see options like “60s”, “15s”, and “Templates”. Scroll to the left to select the “LIVE” option.

Step 4: Use your profile picture as a cover photo or upload a new one. Add a catchy title—your followers will see this in their notifications, so make sure it intrigues them and encourages them to join.

Step 5: Add any effects or filters you’d like to use.

Step 6: Press the “Go LIVE” button.

When and Why Should I Go Live on TikTok?

When you go live, your followers get an in-app notification, as well as a push notification (if enabled). Livestreams with a large audience may get recommended in a dedicated section on the app and on the For You page.

This is why it’s important to get as many of your followers watching your livestream as possible. The best way to do this is to go live when your followers are most active—you can check this in the app’s analytics section.

Check when your followers are most active.

Many creators go live immediately after posting a new TikTok. This has two benefits:

If someone watches your livestream, they’ll be more likely to check out your profile and watch your latest TikTok, boosting its views.
If someone comes across your new TikTok while you’re still livestreaming, they’ll be able to see that you’re live and join in from the For You page.

Users can see if you’re live when watching your TikToks.

This means that going live on TikTok gives you more chances to get discovered by new followers. Apart from that, it’s a great way to connect with TikTok users in a casual way, without a time limit. You can answer questions, discuss ideas for new videos, show more in-depth content, or take them behind the scenes.

If you’re over 18, TikTok also allows users to send you virtual gifts during your livestream, which can later be exchanged for cash!

Why Can't I Go Live on TikTok?

If you’re not seeing the “Live” option on your app, your account may not meet the requirements (your age, how many followers) to go live on TikTok. If you’ve just recently reached the 1,000 follower threshold, you may need to wait a few days for the changes to take effect. Log out and log back in, or reinstall your app.

Happy livestreaming!

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Written By

Sayana Lam

Sayana is a musician, writer and graphic designer based in Toronto, Canada.