Manage Local Channels

 

What are local channels?

Local channels include CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox, PBS, and more. Local channels are available in most, but not all, areas where DIRECTV offers service. These channels broadcast live regional sports, local weather, local news, and other programming many customers rely on.

Don’t watch these channels? If you get your service via a home satellite dish and local channels are available in your area, you can choose an eligible package without local channels for a reduced price on your bill.

If you want to add them back, you can do so any time—they’ll be available to watch soon.

Need to check which local channels are currently available in your area?

It’s easy to check which local channels are currently available in your area. Just enter your zip code here for a complete listing of local channels. If you see channels listed for your zip code that aren’t showing up in your menu, refreshing your receiver might fix the problem. Here’s how to refresh your receiver.

Heads up!
Local channel availability is based on your billing ZIP Code and market area. However, if you receive your DIRECTV through your community (such as your building manager, HOA or via your rent) or as a courtesy service (such as a free account for demonstration), your local channel availability is based on the building’s service address.

Add or remove local channels from your current package

If they’re available in your area and if you get your DIRECTV service via home satellite dish, it’s easy to add or remove local channels from your current package.

1. Sign in and go to TV Package.
2. If local TV channels can be removed from your signature package, locates and select Remove locals and follow the prompts.
3. Afterward, your package name will display with No Locals and your new monthly base price.
4. To add local channels back, select Add locals and follow the prompts. 

Note: Have a Spanish language package? Please call 866.391.0406 to remove or add local channels (for eligible packages), or to switch to a new package.

Add or remove local channels when switching packages

Interested in a new package? It’s easy to view and switch packages, with or without local channels.

1. Sign in and go to TV Package.
2. If your current package has local channels, all available packages will be shown with local channels.
3. If you don't currently have local channels, packages will be shown without local channels. 
4. Choose the package you want by selecting SWITCH.
5. Follow the prompts.
6. Your new package will move to the top and become your package.

Using an over-the-air antenna to get free local channels

For clear signal and easy navigation to local channels via your DIRECTV device, choose a satellite package that includes them if available in your area. As an alternative, you can buy and install an over-the-air (OTA) antenna to view broadcasts from local TV stations that may be available in your area.

Antennas only work for local channels if you have a strong signal in your area. Any obstructions (buildings, trees, mountains) between your antenna and the broadcast signal may impact the quality of signal received.

Antennas work best with a clear line of site to the broadcast source. You can find information on using an over-the-air antenna here.

Watching local channels when you travel

Going to another city? No problem—you can still watch local channels on the DIRECTV app if your package includes them. Make sure you enable location services on your mobile device. You’ll see available local channels in the guide from both your home location and the area you’re currently in. However, you’ll only be able to watch local channels in the area you’re currently in.

Channel troubleshooting

If your Guide isn’t showing the right channels:

1. Press Home on your remote.
2. Open Settings > General > System Summary.
3. Make sure your ZIP Code is correct.
4. Go to Location > Location Status and toggle OFF.
5. Press the red button on the side of your device to restart it.
6. Toggle your Location Status ON after you restart.

Licensing agreements and local channels

Access to local networks depends on licensing agreements between DIRECTV and carriers who hold the broadcast rights to these channels. When licensing agreements expire and are being negotiated, there can occasionally be periods of time when some or all local channels aren’t available in certain areas.

If you’ve been impacted by a loss of channels and think it may have to do with a contract negotiation, visit TVPromise.com and enter your zip code for status updates. If you’re impacted, you may qualify for a credit on your DIRECTV bill.