Firearms Medical Reports – Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers common questions about firearms and shotgun medical reports for UK police force licensing. Find clarity on the assessment process, turnaround times, and independent medical verification requirements.
Is a medical report required in my police force area?
An increasing number of UK police forces now require a medical report when you apply for or renew a shotgun or firearms certificate. Some forces require a medical report for all applications. Others only request one if you declare a relevant medical condition, or your GP notifies the Firearms Licensing Unit of a medical concern. Currently, most police forces across England, Wales and Scotland require medical verification, and it is widely expected that this will become standard across all UK forces. Your local Firearms Licensing Unit will confirm their specific requirements.
Why is a firearms medical report necessary?
Since 1 November 2022, legislation requires applicants for firearms and shotgun certificates to provide medical information to the police. The purpose of the medical report is to ensure that anyone granted access to firearms does not have medical conditions that could impact safe possession. This includes certain mental health conditions, neurological disorders, or substance misuse concerns. The report supports the police in making an informed safeguarding decision.
What does the firearms medical assessment involve?
The process involves a qualified GP reviewing your full medical record to identify any relevant conditions, including:
- Acute stress reactions following trauma
- Depression or anxiety disorders
- Suicidal thoughts, intent, or self-harm history
- Dementia
- Bipolar disorder, psychosis or mania
- Personality disorders
- Neurological conditions (e.g. MS, Parkinson’s, Epilepsy)
- Alcohol or drug misuse
The doctor provides a factual report based solely on your medical records. No opinion or recommendation about your suitability is given. The report is then submitted either to you or directly to your police force, depending on local force requirements.
Who decides whether I am granted a licence?
Only your local police force can grant or refuse a firearms or shotgun certificate. Our role is strictly limited to providing a factual medical report. We do not make recommendations and do not influence the licensing decision. The final decision rests entirely with the Firearms Licensing Unit.
Who obtains my medical records?
With your written consent, we request your full medical records directly from your GP surgery. Many Firearms Licensing Units prefer this method as it provides a complete and reliable record. It also means you do not need to chase your GP surgery yourself, unless they contact you to verify the request. This administrative work is included within your fee.
What records are required?
A full medical history is required, including:
- GP consultation records
- Specialist reports
- Hospital correspondence
- Historic records (including Lloyd George cards)
A summary print-out alone is not sufficient. GP surgeries are permitted up to 30 days to provide records, although many respond sooner.
How long does the process take?
- GP surgeries have up to 30 days to release your records
- Once received, your report is usually completed within 3 working days
- Many reports are finalised same day due to our capacity
Overall turnaround times depend largely on how quickly your GP surgery provides records.
Will everything in my medical file be disclosed?
Only information relevant to firearms licensing will be included in the report. If a relevant condition is identified, your Licensing Officer may discuss this with you. In some cases, they may request further clarification from your own GP or a specialist. Only the police determine the outcome.
How much does the medical report cost?
The fee for a firearms or shotgun medical report is £72.99. Payment is taken at the time of application.
Can I receive a refund?
Refunds may be available in certain circumstances. Please review our Terms and Conditions prior to applying for full details of our refund policy.
Why use an independent firearms medical service?
Many NHS GP surgeries do not provide firearms reports, as this work falls outside their NHS contracts. Where GP surgeries do offer the service:
- Waiting times can be lengthy
- Fees can vary significantly and are more expensive than a private medical report
- The service is treated as non-NHS private work
We specialise in firearms medical reporting and understand the importance of timely completion. The doctor completing your report does not need to know you personally, as the assessment is based entirely on your full medical records.
How is my data handled?
Your data is processed in accordance with UK GDPR. We retain records for no longer than five years to meet legal and regulatory requirements. After this period, data is securely destroyed. Your information is only used for the purpose of completing your medical report and fulfilling legal obligations.
Will a firearms marker be added to my GP record?
Yes. Once your report is completed, we notify your GP surgery that a firearms marker should be added to your medical record, in line with Home Office guidance. This allows your GP to inform police if a relevant medical condition arises in the future.
Can I apply online?
Yes. The quickest way to apply is via our secure online referral form. Paper applications are also accepted by post if preferred.
Do I need to see the doctor in person?
No. The assessment is conducted through a review of your full medical records. There is no requirement for a face-to-face appointment.
Can I apply with a paper application form ?
Yes. We offer the ability to apply with a physical application pack rather than online. Please note this process takes a little longer and once the team have received your application through the post, we will be in touch with the next steps. You can find the paper application form across our website or download here