How to go LIVE on TikTok.
Discover how to go LIVE on TikTok, what TikTok LIVE actually is, what requirements you need to meet, and how you can make your LIVE sessions stand out with custom banners from Adobe Express.
Let’s be honest – scrolling on TikTok is fun. But going LIVE? That’s where the real magic happens. TikTok LIVE is more than just a streaming feature – it’s a powerful way to connect with your community in real time. And whether you want to host a Q&A, show your creative process or promote a product, going LIVE on TikTok can boost your visibility, deepen engagement and, yes, even grow your follower base.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to go LIVE on TikTok, what requirements you need to meet, and how to make your streams more interactive and visually appealing. You’ll also learn how to use Adobe Express to add stunning banners to your TikTok LIVE sessions – no design skills needed.
So, ready to hit that “Go LIVE” button? Let’s go.
TikTok LIVE: First steps to start a LIVE stream.
Let’s take it a step back and look at what TikTok LIVE has to offer. TikTok LIVE allows viewers and creators to interact in real time. With an interaction rate 5 to 10 times higher than other platforms and 25% of users making purchases after viewing TikTok content, live streaming has become an excellent tool for increasing visibility and fostering authentic connections.
But what else does this powerful tool have to offer? When you use TikTok LIVE as a creator, you have access to LIVE features such as various effects, moderation, LIVE gifts, multi-guest hosting and other settings. As a TikTok user – or in this case, LIVE viewer – you can support your favourite creators by watching their LIVE videos, participating in the chat, reacting to their LIVE content with virtual gifts, subscribing to their LIVE communities, and much more. But please note: TikTok LIVE as well as gift features are currently not available everywhere.
You are already familiar with TikTok LIVE and have your smartphone, your idea and maybe even your ring light ready for action? Before you go live, there are a few things you should know – for example, how many followers you need and what your set up should look like.
Let’s start with the four basic requirements you need to meet to go LIVE on TikTok:
- You must be at least 18 years old to go LIVE.
- You must be at least 18 years old (or 19 in South Korea) to send or receive gifts during a LIVE session.
- Your account needs at least 1,000 followers to unlock the LIVE feature (may vary across regions).
- You must have no recent “Community Guidelines” or “Terms of Service” violations.
If that’s all settled, let’s look at some essential steps before starting a TikTok LIVE stream:
TikTok Live Studio offers customisation options for your stream. For example, you can add overlays or branding elements and switch between different scenes during your stream. This allows you to create a dynamic viewing experience for your audience while setting yourself apart from other streamers.
But while you want to stand out from other streamers, your content should be as consistent as possible to ensure your recognisability. With the Adobe brand kit, you can store your logo, colours and fonts in one place and (re)use them for different content pieces. For example, for impressive TikTok videos when you’re not LIVE streaming.
However, viewers do not always behave as you would like them to. With the TikTok moderation tools, you can delete inappropriate comments and block users who make such comments. This ensures that both you and your viewers can enjoy your LIVE stream in a pleasant atmosphere.
Now we know what requirements there are and what measures you should take or consider before going LIVE for the first time. Let’s now take a look at how to go LIVE.
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How to go LIVE on TikTok step-by-step.
You’ve got your equipment, you’ve got your content and you’re good to go? Then here’s how to go LIVE on TikTok.
- Open TikTok and tap the “+” icon at the bottom of your screen.
- Swipe to the “LIVE” tab at the bottom navigation.
- Choose a title for your live session – something catchy and clear. This is what viewers will see in the LIVE feed. Here you can also add filters and effects to further customise your LIVE stream.
- Tap “Go LIVE” to start broadcasting to your followers in real time.
That’s it. Once you’re LIVE, users can join, comment, and send you virtual gifts. And when you’re done, you can choose to save your LIVE session as a replay.
What’s TikTok LIVE Studio?
Want to take your streaming experience one step further? LIVE Studio is TikTok’s own software that lets you stream from your PC. If you create gameplay or reaction videos, or use multiple cameras, TikTok LIVE Studio is the way to go.
But please note: So far, TikTok LIVE Studio is available for Windows only.
Tips for engaging TikTok LIVE sessions.
It’s one thing to go live – it’s another to keep people watching. Here are some tried-and-tested tips to make your TikTok LIVE streams more engaging:
- Have a plan: Even if you want to keep it casual, having a rough outline helps you stay on track.
- Create a visually appealing setup: We said it once, we’ll say it again. Good lighting, clear audio, and an uncluttered background go a long way.
- Promote your LIVE beforehand: Use Stories, TikTok videos or cross-platform posts to let your audience know when you’ll be LIVE.
- Use LIVE themes: Try weekly formats like “Ask Me Anything”, “Behind the Scenes” or “LIVE Tutorials”.
- Start strong: The first few seconds are key. Greet your audience, say what the LIVE is about, and set expectations.
- Be interactive: Ask questions, respond to comments, use polls (if available), and shout out usernames.
And remember, consistency is key. The more you go live, the more your audience knows when and why to tune in.
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(To pull in manually curated templates if needed)
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(Horizontal/Vertical)
Width
(Full, Std, sixcols)
Limit
(number of templates to load each pagination. Min. 5)
Sort
Most Viewed
Rare & Original
Newest to Oldest
Oldest to Newest
Premium
(true, false, all) true or false will limit to premium only or free only.
Create a custom banner for TikTok LIVE with Adobe Express.
Want to take your TikTok LIVE to the next level visually? Especially if you have a promotion running, a TikTok banner is just the right eye catcher for it. Adobe Express makes it easy to create custom TikTok banner that grab attention – even if you’ve never touched motion design before.
Here’s how to use Adobe Express to make a banner for your TikTok LIVE:
- Open Adobe Express.
- Enter “phone wallpaper” in the search window. Adobe Express automatically suggests the correct format, 1080 x 1920 pixels.
- Select a template or start from scratch.
- Now you can customise your design and change the font and colours or add icons and design elements. We recommend choosing a transparent background so your banner doesn’t cover the entire screen and its content.
- Once you’re happy with your design, save and download it.
- Now go to TikTok LIVE. Before hitting that Go LIVE button, click on “effects”. You can choose from TikTok effects or upload your customised banner.
- And you’re good to go. Have fun!
Good to know.
How do I go LIVE on TikTok?
To go live on TikTok, open the app, tap the “+” icon, swipe to the “LIVE” option, add a title and tap “Go LIVE”. You’ll need at least 1,000 followers and be over 18. With TikTok LIVE Studio you also have the option to go LIVE on your desktop.
How many followers do I need on TikTok to go LIVE?
You need a minimum of 1,000 followers on TikTok to unlock the LIVE feature. Another requirement is that you must be at least 18 years of age.
What is TikTok LIVE Studio?
TikTok LIVE Studio is a desktop app that lets you stream directly from your PC. It supports screen sharing, overlays, and custom scenes – ideal for professional live streams.
How do I get verified on TikTok?
TikTok verification is based on account activity, authenticity, completeness and media presence. You can apply in the TikTok app via “Settings > Account > Verification”. You’ll find more information in our article “How to get verified on TikTok”.
Can I use Adobe Express for free?
Yes, Adobe Express offers a free plan with professional templates and extensive photo and video editing tools. With this version, you also have access to thousands of images, videos, and royalty-free fonts, including some generative AI credits – ideal for creating content for TikTok LIVE or other platforms.