DIRECTV Stream Free Trial Explained + How To Activate in December 2025
Welcome, fellow TV fanatics and deal hunters! As December 2025 rolls in, bringing with it holiday movie marathons and the heat of the NFL playoff race, getting your entertainment setup just right is a top priority. Let's be honest, though—finding the absolute best price on premium live TV can feel like channel surfing in the dark.
If you are hunting for a DIRECTV Stream free trial, the landscape has shifted significantly this month. DIRECTV has not only rebranded its streaming options but has also launched a completely new, permanently free tier called MyFree DIRECTV. Whether you are looking to test-drive the full premium experience for five days or want a cost-free way to watch reality TV and news without a credit card, this guide is your secret weapon for navigating the new options.
Top DIRECTV Promo Codes
DIRECTV Streaming Free Trial
Free 5-day trialStart streaming DIRECTV and save $30 over three months. Try free for 5 days. Your card may be charged a temporary hold. Additional fees and taxes may apply. Some exclusions may apply.
DIRECTV Premium TV Experience
Try it free for 5 daysStart streaming DIRECTV and get a 5-day free trial. Some exclusions may apply. The offer ends December 31, 2025.
DIRECTV Streaming Entertainment Package
5-Day Free TrialStart streaming the DIRECTV Entertainment Package and gain access to 90+ channels. You can try it free to 5 days.. Your card will be charged a temporary hold during trial period. Some exclusions may apply. This deal ends March 31, 2025.
DIRECTV Streaming Choice Package
5-Day Free TrialStart streaming the DIRECTV Choice Package and gain instant access to over 125 channels. New residential customers can get a free 5-day trial started today. Your card will be charged a temporary hold during trial period. After the trial, service renews monthly unless canceled. Some exclusions may apply. This offer expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Ultimate Package
5-Day Free TrialStart streaming the DIRECTV Ultimate Package and gain instant access to over 160 channels. New residential customers can get a free 5-day trial started today. Your card will be charged a temporary hold during trial period. After the trial, service renews monthly unless canceled. Some exclusions may apply. This offer expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Signature Package Without a Device
$30 offGet $30 off you select a qualifying Signature Package without a device at DIRECTV. You can also try ir free for 5 days with the the DIRECTV Free Trial. Some exclusions may apply. This offer expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Premier Package
$480 off over 2 yearsStart streaming the DIRECTV Premier Package with the DIRECTV Gemini device to save $480 over two years. You will get $20 off for 24 months, making it $149.99 per month. This package includes top-rated premium networks like HBO Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax. Some exclusions may apply. Cancel anytime. This deal expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Ultimate Package
$360 off over 2 yearsStart streaming the DIRECTV Ultimate Package with the DIRECTV Gemini device to save $360 over two years. You will get $15 off for 24 months, making it $109.99 per month. This package includes more sports & movies like CBS Sports Network, Discovery Family, FX Movie Channel, NHL Network, STARZ Encore, and more. Some exclusions may apply. Cancel anytime. This deal expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Choice Package
$240 off over 2 yearsStart streaming the DIRECTV Choice Package with the DIRECTV Gemini device to save $240 over two years. You will get $10 off for 24 months, making it $84.99 per month. This pack includes specialty sports networks. Some exclusions may apply. Cancel anytime. This deal expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Entertainment Package
$120 off over 2 yearsStart streaming the DIRECTV Entertainment Package with the DIRECTV Gemini device to save $120 over two years. You will get $5 off for 24 months, making it $84.99 per month. Unlimited streams for unlimited screens are available. Cancel anytime. This deal expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Deal
$30 off over 3 monthsStart streaming DIRECTV and save $30 over the first three months. You will get instant access to the entertainment you want. New residential customers may qualify for a free 5-day trial. After the free trial, service renews monthly unless canceled. Some exclusions may apply. This offer ends March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Choice Package
$30 off for 3 monthsStart streaming the DIRECTV Choice package and $30 off over a three month period. The price reflects $10 off for three months. This package includes specialty sports networks and more. This offer applies to new residential customers only. Cancel anytime. This deal expires March 31, 2026.
DIRECTV Streaming Ultimate Package
$30 off for 3 monthsStart streaming the DIRECTV Ultimate package and $30 off over a three month period. The price reflects $10 off for three months, making is $114.99 per month. This package includes channels like CBS Sports Network, Discovery Family, FX Movie Channel, NHL Network, STARZ Encore, and more. This offer applies to new residential customers only. Cancel anytime. This deal expires March 31, 2026.
Does DIRECTV Have a Free Trial?
Yes, and for December 2025, you actually have two distinct options depending on what you want to watch.
1. The Classic 5-Day Free Trial (Premium Packages)
If you want to watch live sports, local channels, and premium networks, DIRECTV offers a 5-day free trial for its paid subscription packages (Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier).
- What you get: Full access to 90–185+ channels, unlimited Cloud DVR, and regional sports networks (with eligible plans).
- The Catch: You must provide a credit card. If you do not cancel before the 5th day, you will be automatically charged for the first month.
- Bonus: This trial often includes preview access to premium add-ons like Max, Paramount+ Premium, and STARZ.
2. The NEW "MyFree DIRECTV" (No Credit Card Needed)
Launched recently, MyFree DIRECTV is a FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) service.
- What you get: Access to 130+ channels including Court TV, MovieSphere, Comedy Dynamics, and select seasons of shows like Duck Dynasty and America's Got Talent.
- The Benefit: No credit card is required—just an email address. It is free forever, not just a trial.
- The Catch: This does not include major live sports (like ESPN) or local network affiliates (ABC/NBC/CBS).
How to Sign Up for the DIRECTV Stream Free Trial
Signing up is easy, but you need to be careful with your selection to ensure you get the trial you want.
- Visit the DIRECTV Website: Navigate to the specific "Stream" or "App" section.
-
Choose Your Path:
- For the 5-Day Premium Trial: Select a package (Entertainment, Choice, etc.). You will be prompted to create an account and enter payment info.
- For MyFree DIRECTV: Look for the "Join for free" link. You will only need to enter your email and create a password—no credit card required.
- Download the App: The service has been consolidated. Whether you are on the free tier or a paid trial, you will use the DIRECTV App on your Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or smartphone.
- Start Watching: Your access is immediate.
What Does DIRECTV Stream Cost After the Trial?
DIRECTV positions itself as a premium option, offering more channels and sports than competitors like Sling or YouTube TV. Here is what you can expect to pay once your trial (and introductory discounts) end:
|
Package |
Standard Price |
Best For |
Key Channels |
|
MyFree DIRECTV |
$0.00 |
Casual Viewers |
Court TV, Tastemade, Reality reruns |
|
Entertainment |
~$89.99/mo |
Essentials |
ESPN, TNT, CNN, HGTV + Locals |
|
Choice |
~$108.99/mo |
Sports Fans |
Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), MLB Network |
|
Ultimate |
~$119.99/mo |
Movie Buffs |
FX Movies, NHL Network, CBS Sports |
|
Premier |
~$164.99/mo |
The "Works" |
Includes Max, Showtime, Starz, Cinemax |
Note: Prices are subject to change. New customers often get $30-$40 off these prices for the first 3 months.
How the DIRECTV Stream Free Trial Compares to Competitors
When you look at the landscape of live TV streaming, DIRECTV Stream occupies a solid middle ground with its 5-day free trial. While it isn't the longest offer on the market, it provides full access to 90–185+ channels depending on your package, making it the premier choice for testing out Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) that are often missing from other providers.
If sports coverage is your main priority, however, you might also consider the Fubo free trial, which typically runs for a slightly longer 7 days. Fubo is fantastic for international soccer and NFL coverage, but keep in mind that it lacks Turner networks (TNT and TBS), which can be a dealbreaker for NBA and NHL fans compared to DIRECTV's comprehensive lineup.
For users who prioritize a robust cloud DVR and a simple interface, the YouTube TV free trial is often the biggest rival. YouTube TV's trial length is famously unpredictable, fluctuating wildly between 5 and 21 days depending on the specific user and the time of year. While its DVR is top-tier, its channel count generally lags behind DIRECTV's upper-tier packages.
On the other hand, if you are looking for maximum entertainment value beyond just live channels, the Hulu free trial for its Live TV plan is worth a look. Be warned, though: at just 3 days, it is the shortest trial in the industry, giving you very little time to evaluate the service, even if it does include the massive value of the Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle.
Finally, budget-conscious cord-cutters often look for a Sling TV free trial, but they are becoming increasingly rare. Unlike DIRECTV Stream's consistent 5-day offer, Sling TV has largely moved away from free trials entirely, opting instead to entice new users with deep discounts—usually 50% off—on their first month of service.
Ultimately, if you need a "try before you buy" experience that includes your local sports teams and traditional cable favorites without a long-term commitment, DIRECTV Stream's 5-day pass remains one of the most reliable options available.
Troubleshooting: Why Can't I Find the Free Trial?
If you don't see the 5-day trial offer, check the following:
- Are you a returning customer? The 5-day trial is for new subscribers only. If you have used your email or credit card with DIRECTV Stream before, you won't be eligible.
- Are you looking at Satellite? Satellite packages often require a 2-year contract. Ensure you are selecting the "Bring your own device" or "Streaming" option to get the 5-day trial and no-contract flexibility.
What Other DIRECTV Deals Are Available This December?
When it comes to DIRECTV, you might be hunting for a traditional "promo code" to plug in at checkout. But here's an insider tip: DIRECTV's best offers are rarely codes at all. Instead, they package their most valuable savings into automatic discounts and reward offers that are applied when you sign up. The real key is knowing what's available and how to get it. This December, the promotions are heavily focused on giving new customers a fantastic welcome package, combining upfront bill savings with valuable bonuses.
Top Tier Deals for New Customers
If you're new to DIRECTV, you're in the driver's seat for the best deals. These offers are designed to be as enticing as possible, and they deliver some serious value right from the start.
- Up to a $200 VISA Reward Card. This is the headliner deal for anyone switching providers. When you sign up for a CHOICE, ULTIMATE, or PREMIER package with a 24-month agreement and activate a Gemini device, DIRECTV will send you a VISA Reward Card. Our advice? This is one of the best ways to offset your initial costs, as it's essentially cash back in your pocket.
- Up to $45 Off Your First Month. To give you some instant gratification, DIRECTV knocks a significant chunk off your first bill. The discount is automatic and varies by package: you'll see $40 off Entertainment, $35 off Choice, $40 off Ultimate, and a generous $45 off the Premier package.
- 3 Months of Premium Channels on the House. Get a taste of the good life with three free months of Max, Paramount Plus Premium, STARZ, Cinemax, and MGM plus. This offer is included with most packages. Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder for about a week before the trial ends. If you don't want to keep them, you'll need to cancel to avoid being charged the standard monthly rate.
- 4 Free Months of Spotify Premium. In a fantastic lifestyle perk, new residential customers who are also new to Spotify Premium get four months of ad-free music listening. You'll get an email with redemption instructions after you activate your service, making your holiday playlists sound even sweeter.
Savings Strategies for Everyone
Whether you're a new or existing customer, there are a few more clever ways to save that go beyond the initial sign-up offers.
- Earn up to $500 a Year in eGift Cards. DIRECTV's refer-a-friend program is quite generous. For each eligible person you refer who signs up for service, you'll get a $100 eGift Card. You can earn up to $500 in rewards per calendar year, making this a great way to lower your effective bill just by spreading the word.
- Introductory Pricing on Genre Packs. If you want to customize your channel lineup without upgrading to a pricier tier, consider the Genre Packs. For example, the MyEntertainment pack is currently offered at an introductory rate of just $29.99 per month for the first two months, giving you a low-cost way to try out more content.
- Discounts for Military and Veterans. If you or your spouse is a military member or veteran, be sure to check for discounts available through the AT&T Signature Program. This can unlock special pricing not available to the general public.
Key Things to Know About DIRECTV Deals and Trials
Navigating the world of DIRECTV promotions can be simple once you understand how they work. Unlike some retailers that rely heavily on a constant stream of coupon codes, DIRECTV focuses more on package deals, long-term promotional pricing, and valuable reward offers. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions deal seekers have.
What Is the DIRECTV Refer-A-Friend Program?
DIRECTV has a referral program where you can earn a $100 eGift Card for each new customer you refer who signs up for service. You can earn up to $500 in eGift Cards per year, making it a lucrative way to lower your costs if you have friends or family in the market for a new TV provider.
Can I Get a Deal by Bundling DIRECTV with Other Services?
Absolutely. Bundling is one of the most effective ways to save. You can bundle DIRECTV television service with AT&T Internet or AT&T Wireless to receive a monthly discount on your total bill. This is a great option if you're looking to streamline your home services and save money at the same time.
Can I Access DIRECTV on the Go?
Yes. The DIRECTV app allows you to stream live TV, watch on-demand content, and access your DVR recordings from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, whether you're at home or on the move.
Additional Savings Tips and Tricks For DIRECTV This December
Getting the best price on DIRECTV is about more than just finding one good deal; it's about using a combination of strategies to maximize your savings from every possible angle. With a little know-how, you can significantly reduce your monthly bill and get the most value out of your service.
Become a Master Negotiator
For existing customers, the single most powerful savings tool is calling DIRECTV and asking for the "retention" or "loyalty" department. Your goal is to negotiate a new promotional rate. Be polite, explain that your bill is higher than you'd like, and mention that you're looking at competitor offers from DISH or YouTube TV. More often than not, the retention agent has the power to apply discounts and credits that aren't advertised anywhere else to keep you as a customer.
Take Full Advantage of New Customer Offers
If you're new to DIRECTV, don't leave any money on the table. Make sure you sign up for a package that qualifies for the VISA Reward Card (typically CHOICE or higher). This offer alone can be worth up to $200. Combine this with the automatic discount on your first month's bill and the three-month free trial of premium channels for a massive upfront value boost.
Always Bundle if You Can
If you use or need internet and/or mobile phone service, bundling with AT&T is a no-brainer. This is one of the easiest and most consistent ways to get a recurring monthly discount on your DIRECTV bill. The savings can be substantial over the course of a year, and it simplifies your billing.
Refer Your Friends and Family
Don't underestimate the power of the Refer-A-Friend program. Earning a $100 eGift Card for each person who signs up is a fantastic return. If you can successfully refer just a few people a year, you could easily cover the cost of several months of your own service.
Join the DIRECTV PERKS Loyalty Program
It costs nothing to join DIRECTV PERKS, and it's a simple way to get a little something extra for being a loyal customer. You can earn tokens to redeem for movie rentals, enter exclusive contests, and get access to other members-only benefits. It's a small but consistent way to add value to your subscription.
Time Your Purchase Around Major Sales Events
Patience can pay off. If you're not in a rush, consider waiting to sign up until a major holiday or sales event like Black Friday or Cyber Monday. DIRECTV often rolls out its most aggressive offers during these periods, which could mean a larger reward card or a steeper discount on your package.
Go Paperless and Use Autopay
This is one of the simplest tricks in the book. By enrolling in both autopay and paperless billing, DIRECTV will often apply a small but consistent monthly discount to your bill. It only takes a few minutes to set up and saves you money every single month.
Look for Niche and Partner Discounts
Always check for discounts related to your affiliations. DIRECTV has partnerships that provide special pricing for military members and veterans. In the past, they've also had offers for AAA members. It never hurts to ask a sales representative if any discounts apply to you.
Final Verdict: Is the Trial Worth It?
Absolutely. With the consolidation of the app and the launch of MyFree DIRECTV, you have zero risk. We recommend signing up for the MyFree tier first to test the app interface. If you like how it works, upgrade to the Choice package 5-day trial to test out the live sports and local channels. Just remember to set that alarm on your phone for Day 4 so you can decide whether to keep it or cancel! Be sure to read the fine print and understand the full terms and conditions of any offer before you sign up, especially regarding contract lengths and what happens after a promotional period ends.
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