How to Go Live on TikTok in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
I still remember a few years ago, the first time when I decided to go live on TikTok. I had been watching so many other creators go live for hours on TikTok, answering questions, chatting with the audience, and even making money in real time. It looked not only fun and interactive, but also like a perfect way to connect with an audience and grow an audience.
So, I opened the app, tapped the “+” button, and… nothing. Besides posting a new post or using templates, I did not see any Live option. After some searching, I finally figured out why the Live button was not showing up on my app and what I needed to do to unlock it. If you are in the same spot, do not worry. In this guide, I will walk you through exactly how to go live on TikTok, what you need to do if the feature is not showing up, plus I will add some pro tips for you to get more viewers and engagement.
Who Can Go Live on TikTok?
Unlike other platforms like Instagram, there is no minimum number of followers required for you to go live, but TikTok has a few rules you need to meet.
TikTok Live Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old (Previously, some users could go live at 16, but TikTok now limits it to 18+).
You need at least 1,000 followers (This ensures that only engaged creators can go live).
Your account must be in good standing (No recent violations of TikTok’s Community Guidelines).
Pro Tip: If you are under 1,000 followers, focus on posting consistently and engaging with others on the platform. Growing to 1,000 followers is actually quite easy on this platform when you post valuable content and viral style videos.
How to Go Live on TikTok (Step by Step)
Once you meet the requirements, going live is super easy. Here is exactly how to do it:
Step 1: Open the TikTok App
Make sure you are logged in and using the latest version of TikTok.
Step 2: Tap the "+" Button
This is the same button you use to create regular TikTok videos.
Step 3: Select "Live"
Scroll through the recording options until you find the Live button. If you do not see it, double-check that you meet all the requirements.
Step 4: Add a Catchy Title
Your live stream title should be clear and engaging so people know what to expect. Some ideas:
- "Ask Me Anything! 🎤 Live Q&A"
- "Behind the Scenes of My Content Creation 📸"
- "Let’s Chat! Drop Your Questions Below 👇"
Step 5: Choose Filters and Effects (Optional)
TikTok lets you add filters, beauty effects, and even background images before you go live.
Step 6: Hit "Go Live"
Once everything is set, tap the "Go Live" button, and you are officially streaming!
Pro Tip: It is better to go live at peak times when your followers are most active. It is usually around 7 PM - 9 PM in your time zone and weekends as well.
How to Get More Viewers on TikTok Live
What I realized in my TikTok Live journey is that going live is easy, but when you start, a lot of times there is no one interacting in your live session. People come and go, and I did not even know how to make them stay. After trial and error, trying new strategies, I finally understood how to get people to stay and interact. Here are the steps for you to boost your engagement and attract more viewers to your TikTok Live.
Promote Your Live Beforehand
- Post a TikTok video announcing that you will go live in an hour.
- Add a countdown in your TikTok Stories or pin a comment on your latest post.
- Remind your followers with a quick Instagram or Twitter post.
Have a Clear Topic or Theme
Instead of just saying “Hey, I am live”, give people a reason to stay:
- Q&A Session – Answer your followers' most asked questions.
- Behind the Scenes – Show your content creation process.
- Live Challenges – Ask followers to participate in a challenge with you.
Interact With Your Viewers
- Say hello to new viewers as they join.
- Respond to comments and questions in real time.
- Use TikTok’s guest feature to bring followers on your live.
Tip: Unlike going live on other social media like Instagram, where your live viewers are mostly just your followers, on TikTok your viewers might be more new audiences, especially when you are just starting. The more interactive your live is, the more TikTok will push your live to more people on the “For You” page.
How to Make Money on TikTok Live
Going live on TikTok is not just about engagement or growing an audience. It is also a great way to make money on TikTok. Many creators have made millions by going live, and even smaller creators make $500 to $2,000 a month just from TikTok Live.
Ways to Earn Money from TikTok Live:
TikTok Gifts and Coins – TikTok allows viewers to send you virtual gifts, which you can convert into real money.
Brand Sponsorships – You can partner with brands and promote their products during your live stream.
Promoting Your Own Products – If you sell digital products or merch, you can use live streams to promote them without spending anything on advertising.
Tip: You can encourage viewers to send gifts by setting up fun challenges. For example, “I will sing a song if we hit 1,000 likes.”
Why Can’t I Go Live on TikTok? (Troubleshooting Tips)
If you are unable to go live, do not worry. Here are some of the most common reasons, and how to fix them.
You Do Not Meet the Requirements
Solution: Keep posting and engaging until you reach 1,000 followers.
The "Live" Button is Missing
Solution: Try updating your TikTok app or logging out and back in.
TikTok Live Ban or Restriction
Solution: If you have violated TikTok’s community guidelines, you may be temporarily restricted from going live. Check your notifications for any warnings.
Pro Tip: Always follow TikTok’s rules when going live. Although growing on TikTok is quite easy, you do not want to get suspended or banned after all your hard work.
As many creators and small business owners have said, going live on TikTok is one of the best ways to connect with an audience, grow an audience, and build an online business. But consistency is the key. Just like any other social media platform, you will not become famous or rich in just one day, but if you keep posting and keep putting in the work, it might happen one day.
Quick Recap:
Need 1,000 followers and must be at least 18 to go live.
Engage your audience by responding to comments and hosting Q&A sessions.
Use lives to make money with gifts, sponsorships, and promotions.
Promote your live stream ahead of time to get more viewers.
If you meet the requirements, go on TikTok and try it now. If you have not met the requirement yet, keep posting, keep growing. Your day to go live on TikTok will come sooner than you think.