To add PBS Passport to your LG Smart TV, you need to install the PBS app and sign in with your Passport account credentials. This process unlocks exclusive PBS shows and documentaries, but only works on TVs running webOS 23 or higher.
What you need to add PBS Passport to your LG Smart TV
PBS Passport is not a separate app on LG Smart TVs; you access all Passport content through the main PBS app. Before you begin, check your TV's operating system. The PBS app is supported only on LG TVs running webOS 23 and higher, which includes models released in 2023 and some 2022 models that can update to webOS 23. If your TV was released in 2021 or earlier, or is a 2022 model that cannot update to webOS 23, the PBS app will not install. In that case, you can still watch PBS Passport by using a streaming device like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick, or if you enjoy British dramas you might also add acorn TV to LG smart TV for a different streaming option. You'll know your TV is compatible when you see the PBS app available in the LG Content Store, which confirms your system meets the requirement.
Install the PBS app from the LG Content Store
- Press the Home button on your remote control to open the home screen.
- Navigate to the LG Content Store icon (often labeled "Apps" or "Store") and select it.
- Use the search function (magnifying glass icon) and type "PBS" or "PBS Video app."
- Select the PBS app from the search results, then choose "Download" or "Install."
- Wait for the app to finish downloading and installing on your TV.
Once installed, the PBS app will appear on your TV's home screen. If you don't see the app in search results, double-check that your TV meets the webOS 23 requirement and that your region is set correctly in the LG Content Store settings.
Sign in to your PBS Passport account
- Open the PBS app from your LG Smart TV's home screen.
- On the app's main screen, look for the sign-in or activate device option and select "Sign In."
- Using the on-screen keyboard and your remote, enter the email address and password associated with your PBS Passport account.
- Select "Sign In" to complete the process.
After signing in successfully, the app will recognize your Passport membership. This lets you browse and stream exclusive content like full seasons of your favorite shows, which are otherwise locked behind the Passport paywall. If you don't yet have a Passport account, visit the official PBS website to subscribe, then return to these steps.
Start watching PBS Passport shows
Once signed in, browse the PBS app's library on your LG Smart TV. Look for content marked with a Passport badge or labeled as exclusive; these are the shows and documentaries your subscription unlocks. You can create a personalized watchlist to save episodes for later, and all Passport content streams without commercial interruptions. This gives you ad-free access to PBS's deepest catalog, including specials and documentaries not available to non-members. The app updates frequently with new releases, so check back regularly for fresh programming. This ensures you never miss a new episode or exclusive premiere as soon as it becomes available. Simply select any Passport-eligible show and start streaming immediately.
