The 12A certificate was introduced in 2002 to replace the 12 certificate and allows those under 12 to watch a film if accompanied by a reasonable adult guardian. The 15 certificate introduced in 1982 permits those 15 and over to watch films that may contain frequent strong language but not excessive aggression or abuse, some nudity but not in detail, and violence without pain or horror. The 18 certificate also from 1982 is strictly for those 18 and over due to explicit content such as nudity, sex, and violence unless promoting harassment or illegal ideas.

1. The 12A certificate was first brought introduced by the British Board of Film Classification on 30 August 2002 and had to replace the 12 certificate. The reason for 12a is so the a reasonable adult guardian is able to accompany a 12 year old or someone under the age of 12 to go see that certain movie. 12a is advised so that guardian can watch and approve of what is allowed to be watched and what scenes are not.

2. The 15 certificate was first introduced by the British Board of Film Classification on 1 November 1982. It is used for certain movies only so that people from the age of 15 and over 15 can go watch. In 15 movies there may be frequent use of strong language however too much aggressive language and sexual abuse is prohibited, Not allowed. There also may be some nudity or sexual screening however it would not be too detailed. Also there may be violence but not so much of pain and mild horror in 15 certification.

3. The 18 certificate was first introduced by the British Board of Film Classification on 1 November 1982. It is strictly for people over the age of 18 due to the explicit material the movie that is being shown may contain. It can show as much level of nudity, sex, violence and horror unless it is sexual harassment and is promoting wrong ideas. The BBFC respect adults to choose their own movies within the law.