CBS News airs on channel 2 in most U.S. markets, but the exact channel number depends on your cable or satellite provider and your location
If you have cable or satellite TV, CBS News is almost always on channel 2 — that is the standard assignment across the country. However, some providers place it on a different number. The fastest way to find it: open your TV guide or search "CBS" in your cable box. If you use an antenna, CBS News broadcasts on a VHF channel that varies by city; use an online tool like TVFool.com to enter your address and see which channel CBS uses in your area.
If you do not have cable or satellite, you can stream CBS News through Paramount Plus, the CBS News website, or the CBS News app. Paramount Plus carries the live CBS News broadcast, plus on-demand segments and full episodes of CBS News programs like 60 Minutes and CBS Evening News. The CBS News app and website are free and let you watch breaking news and clips without a subscription.
Key Takeaways
- CBS News is channel 2 on most cable and satellite systems, but you should check your provider's guide to confirm the exact number in your area.
- If you have an antenna, use TVFool.com or a similar tool to find which VHF channel CBS broadcasts on in your city.
- Paramount Plus streams the live CBS News broadcast and full episodes of CBS News programs with a subscription.
- The CBS News website and mobile app offer free access to breaking news, clips, and some full episodes without requiring a subscription.
Finding CBS News on Cable and Satellite
On cable systems like Comcast, Charter, and Cox, CBS News is almost always channel 2. On satellite providers like DirecTV and Dish Network, it is also typically channel 2, though some regional variations exist. The simplest way to confirm is to use your provider's on-screen guide: press the Guide button on your remote, then search for "CBS" or scroll to channel 2.
If you cannot find it using the guide, call your cable or satellite provider's customer service line. They can tell you the exact channel number and, if CBS News is not showing up, help you troubleshoot a signal or subscription issue. Keep your account number handy when you call.
Using an Antenna to Watch CBS News
CBS News broadcasts over the air on a VHF channel that changes depending on where you live. In some cities it is channel 2, in others it might be channel 4, 5, or 7. To find the right channel for your address, visit TVFool.com, enter your zip code, and look for the CBS station listed in the results. The site will show you the channel number and signal strength you can expect with an antenna.
Once you know the channel, use your TV remote to scan for channels (usually called "Auto Tune" or "Channel Scan" in your TV settings). Your TV will find all available broadcast channels in your area, including CBS News. You may need to rescan if you move or if CBS changes its broadcast frequency, though that is rare.
Streaming CBS News on Paramount Plus
Paramount Plus carries the live CBS News broadcast during the day and evening, plus full episodes of CBS Evening News, CBS Mornings, 60 Minutes, and other CBS News programs. You need a Paramount Plus subscription to watch the live feed and most full episodes. Paramount Plus offers a free tier with ads and a paid tier without ads; both include CBS News content.
To watch, open the Paramount Plus app or website, search for "CBS News," and select the live stream or the program you want. The live feed updates throughout the day, so you can tune in whenever news breaks. If you do not have Paramount Plus, you can start a free trial to test it out, though you will need to provide a payment method.
Free Options: CBS News Website and App
The CBS News website (cbsnews.com) and the CBS News mobile app (available on iOS and Android) let you watch breaking news clips, full stories, and some full episodes at no cost. You do not need to create an account or enter payment information. The free content includes live breaking news alerts, video stories organized by topic, and archives of recent broadcasts.
The free app and website do not include the full live broadcast stream — that requires Paramount Plus. However, they are useful if you want to catch up on specific stories, watch clips during the day, or get breaking news notifications on your phone. The app also lets you customize which news topics appear first, so you can prioritize the stories that matter to you.
What to Do If You Cannot Find CBS News
If you have cable or satellite and CBS News is not showing up on channel 2, first check whether your subscription includes local channels. Some basic cable packages do not carry local broadcast stations. If your package should include CBS, restart your cable box by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. This often fixes signal or guide issues.
If the problem persists, contact your provider's customer service. Have your account number and the model of your cable box ready. They can check whether CBS News is available in your area, whether your account includes it, and whether there is a technical issue on their end. If you use an antenna and cannot find CBS News, try rescanning for channels or moving your antenna to a different location in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CBS News the same as CBS Evening News?
No. CBS News is the news division that produces many programs. CBS Evening News is one specific program that airs in the evening. Both are available on Paramount Plus and the CBS News app, but they are different broadcasts.
Can I watch CBS News on Paramount Plus without paying?
Paramount Plus offers a free trial, but after that you need a subscription. The CBS News website and app offer free clips and some full episodes, but the live broadcast stream requires Paramount Plus.
What if my cable provider does not carry CBS News?
This is rare, but if it happens, you can watch through an antenna (if CBS broadcasts in your area), the CBS News website, the CBS News app, or Paramount Plus. Contact your provider to ask why CBS News is not included and whether you can add it to your package.
Can I record CBS News on my cable box?
Yes, if your cable or satellite provider offers a DVR service. Use your remote to navigate to CBS News on channel 2, then press the Record button. Check your provider's guide for instructions specific to your box model.