Applying for a shotgun licence in the UK requires several important steps, and one of the most crucial is obtaining a GP medical report. This document provides the police firearms licensing team with essential information about your medical history and current health status. Understanding what’s involved and how to prepare can make the process smoother and increase your chances of a successful application.
What Is a GP Medical Report for Shotgun Licences?
A GP medical report is a medical assessment completed by a qualified GP (General Practitioner) as part of your shotgun certificate application. The report helps police licensing departments determine whether you’re medically fit to safely possess and use a shotgun. It’s a mandatory requirement under UK firearms legislation and must be completed using the official form provided by your local police force.
The GP will review your medical records and assess whether you have any conditions that might affect your ability to safely handle firearms. This includes both physical and mental health considerations.
Why Is a GP Medical Report Required?
The GP medical report serves as a safeguarding measure to protect both you and the public. Police firearms licensing officers need to ensure that anyone granted a shotgun certificate:
- Has no medical conditions that could impair judgement or physical capability
- Is mentally stable and doesn’t pose a risk to themselves or others
- Isn’t dependent on alcohol or drugs
- Has no history of violence, self-harm, or suicidal ideation
The report helps licensing officers make informed decisions based on professional medical opinion, ensuring firearms only reach those who can use them responsibly.
What Information Does Your GP Need to Provide?
When completing your GP medical report, the doctor will be asked to disclose:
Mental Health History: Details of any depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, or other psychiatric conditions, including treatment received and current status.
Substance Misuse: Any history of alcohol or drug dependency or misuse.
Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy, blackouts, seizures, dementia, or other conditions affecting consciousness or cognitive function.
Relevant Physical Conditions: Disabilities or conditions that might affect your ability to safely handle a shotgun.
Current Medications: Particularly those that might affect judgement, coordination, or behaviour.
Recent Consultations: Any significant medical events or treatments in recent years.
The GP will also indicate whether they believe you’re fit to possess a shotgun certificate based on their professional assessment.
Two Options for Getting Your GP Medical Report
When it comes to obtaining your GP medical report, you typically have two options:
Option 1: Using Your Own GP Practice
You can approach your registered GP surgery directly to complete the medical report. However, this option often comes with challenges:
- Long waiting times: Many GP surgeries have lengthy waiting lists for non-urgent appointments
- High fees: GP practices can charge anywhere from £100 to £150 or more for completing firearms medical reports
- Limited experience: Not all GPs are familiar with firearms licensing requirements
- Delays in processing: Busy practices may take weeks or even months to complete the paperwork
Option 2: Using a Specialist Firearms Medical Service
An increasingly popular alternative is to use a specialist firearms medical service. These dedicated providers:
- Faster turnaround: Typically complete reports within 3 working days after receiving your medical records
- Competitive pricing: Often charge fixed fees (around £60) which is considerably less than many GP practices
- Expert knowledge: GMC-registered doctors who specialise in firearms medicals and understand licensing requirements
- Streamlined process: Handle all communication with your GP practice to obtain your medical records
- Nationwide coverage: Many services operate clinics across the UK for convenience
Specialist services work by obtaining your medical records from your registered GP (with your consent) and then having a qualified firearms medical doctor complete the assessment and report.
How to Prepare for Your GP Medical Report
Whether you choose your own GP or a specialist service, proper preparation ensures your GP medical report is completed accurately and efficiently.
1. Gather Required Documentation
Before starting the process, collect:
- The official GP medical report form from your police force (usually provided with your application pack or available on their website)
- Your shotgun licence application reference number
- Details of any relevant medical history you want to discuss
- A list of current medications
- Your GP practice details (name, address, and contact information)
2. Complete the GP Consent Form
If using a specialist firearms medical service, you’ll need to download and complete a GP consent form. This authorises them to request your medical records from your registered GP practice. Ensure you:
- Fill in all sections accurately
- Sign and date the form
- Provide your GP practice details correctly
- Upload or submit it as instructed
3. Be Honest and Transparent
Complete honesty is essential when discussing your medical history. Attempting to conceal information can result in your application being refused and may constitute a criminal offence. Remember that GPs have access to your full medical records, so any omissions will likely be discovered.
If you’ve experienced mental health difficulties in the past but have since recovered and received appropriate treatment, this doesn’t automatically disqualify you. What matters is your current state of health and stability.
4. Understand the Timeline
The process typically involves several stages:
- Medical records request: Your consent form is sent to your GP practice requesting your medical records (this can take up to 28 days)
- Follow-up: After 14 days, a follow-up request is typically sent to chase progress
- Report completion: Once medical records are received, the report is usually completed within 3 working days
- Total timeframe: From start to finish, expect 2-4 weeks in most cases
5. Keep Your GP Practice Details Up to Date
Ensure your registered GP practice details are current. If you’ve recently moved or changed practices, update your registration before applying. Outdated information can cause significant delays in obtaining your medical records.
What Happens During the Medical Assessment?
When completing your GP medical report, the assessing doctor will:
- Review Your Medical Records: Thoroughly examine your medical history provided by your GP practice
- Assess Relevant Conditions: Evaluate any physical or mental health conditions that might affect firearms safety
- Consider Treatment History: Review any medications, therapies, or treatments you’ve received
- Make a Professional Judgement: Determine whether you’re medically fit to hold a shotgun certificate
- Complete the Official Form: Fill in the required documentation for your police force
The assessment is based on your medical records rather than requiring you to attend an in-person examination in most cases, though some services may offer consultations if needed.
Common Medical Concerns That May Affect Your Application
Understanding what might raise concerns can help you prepare. Common medical issues that may affect shotgun licence applications include:
Mental Health Conditions:
- Active depression or anxiety requiring ongoing treatment
- Bipolar disorder or mania
- Psychotic illnesses or schizophrenia
- Personality disorders
- History of suicidal thoughts or self-harm
- Acute stress reactions
Neurological Conditions:
- Epilepsy or seizure disorders
- Dementia or cognitive impairment
- Conditions causing loss of consciousness
- Blackouts or fainting episodes
Substance Misuse:
- Current or recent alcohol dependency
- Drug abuse or addiction
- Ongoing substance misuse treatment
Medications:
- Psychotropic medications affecting judgement
- Sedatives or medications causing drowsiness
- Any medication that significantly impairs cognitive function
However, having one of these conditions doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Each case is assessed individually, considering factors like:
- How long ago the issue occurred
- Treatment received and its effectiveness
- Current stability and time without symptoms
- Professional medical opinion on your fitness
What Happens After Your GP Medical Report Is Completed?
Once your GP medical report has been completed, the next steps are:
Receive the Report: You’ll typically receive the completed report by email or post within 3 working days after the doctor receives your medical records
Review the Document: Check that all information is accurate and the report is signed by a qualified medical practitioner
Submit with Your Application: Attach the medical report to your shotgun licence application when submitting to your local police firearms licensing department
Direct Submission Option: Many specialist services can email the report directly to your police force if you provide the correct email address and request this service
Await Police Processing: The police will review all aspects of your application, including the medical report, before making a decision on your licence
Costs and Pricing for GP Medical Reports
Understanding the costs involved helps you budget for your shotgun licence application:
Traditional GP Practices: £100 to £150+ (varies significantly between practices, not covered by NHS as it’s a private service)
Specialist Firearms Medical Services: Typically around £60 (fixed fee, often more competitive than GP practices)
BASC Member Discounts: Some services offer discounts for British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) members
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Shotgun licence application fee (paid to police force)
- Security requirements (gun cabinet, locks)
- Any follow-up medical assessments if required
The lower cost and faster service of specialist providers often makes them an attractive option for many applicants.
Tips for a Successful Application
To maximise your chances of obtaining a favourable GP medical report:
Maintain Good Health Records: Keep your GP informed of any health changes and attend regular check-ups when needed.
Demonstrate Stability: For mental health concerns, a period of stability (typically 3-5 years without symptoms or significant treatment) is usually required.
Choose the Right Service: Consider whether your own GP or a specialist firearms medical service is best for your circumstances.
Act Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Start the medical report process well before you plan to submit your full application.
Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all forms are completed correctly with accurate GP practice details to avoid delays.
Follow Up Proactively: If using your own GP and experiencing delays, contact them to check on progress.
Be Patient with GP Record Requests: Your GP practice has up to 28 days to release your medical records, and this is often the longest part of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About GP Medical Reports
How much does a GP medical report for a shotgun licence cost?
Costs vary between £100-£150+ at traditional GP practices, while specialist firearms medical services typically charge around £60. The lower cost of specialist services makes them an increasingly popular choice.
How long does it take to get a GP medical report?
Using a specialist service, you can typically receive your completed report within 2-4 weeks total, with the report itself completed within 3 working days of receiving your medical records. Traditional GP surgeries may take significantly longer due to appointment waiting times.
Can I see what’s written in my medical report?
Yes, you have the right to request access to your medical records and reports under UK data protection legislation.
What if my GP refuses to release my medical records?
GP practices are generally obligated to release medical records when proper consent is provided. If issues arise, a specialist service will typically contact you after 28 days to help resolve the situation with your practice.
Will past mental health issues automatically disqualify me?
Not necessarily. Each case is assessed individually. Past mental health issues that were successfully treated and haven’t recurred for several years (typically 3-5 years) may not prevent you from obtaining a licence.
Do I need to attend an appointment for the medical report?
In most cases, the assessment is based on your medical records and doesn’t require an in-person appointment. However, some services may offer consultations if needed or requested.
Can the report be sent directly to the police?
Yes, many specialist firearms medical services can email your completed report directly to your police force’s firearms licensing department if you provide the correct email address and request this service.
What should I do if my application is refused on medical grounds?
You have the right to appeal the decision. You can provide additional medical information or wait until your circumstances change before reapplying.
Understanding the Role of Specialist Firearms Medical Services
Specialist firearms medical services have become an essential part of the UK firearms licensing landscape. These services:
Employ GMC-Registered Doctors: All assessments are completed by fully qualified, registered medical practitioners who specialise in firearms medicals.
Understand Firearms Legislation: Doctors working in this field have extensive knowledge of UK firearms law and police licensing requirements.
Offer Nationwide Coverage: With clinics and services available across the UK, you can access professional firearms medical assessments regardless of your location.
Streamline the Process: By handling all communication with GP practices and completing reports quickly, they remove much of the administrative burden from applicants.
Provide Insurance and Compliance: Reputable services carry appropriate professional indemnity insurance and comply with all relevant medical and data protection regulations.
Offer Continuity: Many firearms enthusiasts use the same service for initial applications and subsequent renewals, providing continuity of care.
Preparing for Renewal Applications
If you’re renewing an existing shotgun certificate, the GP medical report process is similar but may be simpler:
- You’ll still need a current medical report (previous reports aren’t transferable to renewals)
- The process is the same whether applying for a grant (first-time application) or renewal
- Some applicants find renewals faster as their medical history is already established
- Maintaining good health and stability between applications strengthens renewal applications
Always indicate clearly on your application form whether you’re applying for a grant or renewal, as this information helps ensure correct processing.
Conclusion
Obtaining a GP medical report is a vital step in your shotgun licence application, but it doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful. Whether you choose to use your registered GP practice or a specialist firearms medical service, understanding the process and preparing properly will help ensure a smooth experience.
Specialist firearms medical services offer significant advantages in terms of cost (typically around £60), speed (reports completed within 3 working days of receiving medical records), and expertise. With GMC-registered doctors who understand firearms licensing requirements, these services provide a streamlined alternative to traditional GP practices.
Remember to:
- Start the process early to allow time for medical record requests
- Be completely honest about your medical history
- Provide accurate information on all forms
- Choose the option that best suits your timeline and budget
- Follow up proactively if experiencing delays
The GP medical report requirement exists to ensure responsible firearms ownership and community safety. By approaching it with proper preparation and honesty, you’ll be well-positioned for a successful shotgun licence application.
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing an existing certificate, taking the right steps now will bring you closer to enjoying shooting sports, countryside management, or whatever legitimate purpose your shotgun certificate serves.