How to manage your GMC Registration 

  • February 25, 2023
 

The GMC is the public body that maintains the official register of medical professionals with the UK. Once a doctor has gained full GMC registration, there are a number of actions they may take to maintain their registration and keep their information up to date.  

In this blog we will be looking at the how to manage your registration and the different options you have if you need to change your status on the register. 

Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for. 

Maintaining your Registration

In order to manage and maintain your registration and licence to practise, you need to meet certain requirements and keep your information up to date. 

The details you need to keep up to date include your address, email, designated body or suitable person (for revalidation purposes) and your direct debit details. This can all be managed through GMC Online

To change your address, your name or your name and gender status, you will need to complete forms which can be found on the GMC website.  

Please note that to change your name and gender status, there is an application process involved. 

Revalidation

All doctors on the GMC’s medical register with a licence to practise must go through a process called revalidation.  

Revalidation allows you to demonstrate that you: 

  • are keeping your knowledge up to date 
  • provide a good level of care 
  • are fit to practise and no concerns have been raised about you 

The process of revalidation differs slightly, depending on your revalidation connection type, which you can check using the GMC’s connection tool

Doctors with a connection – most doctors have a connection and will revalidate their registration and licence every five years, by having annual appraisals based on the GMC’s core guidance for doctors: Good medical practice. All doctors working in the UK must have a designated body and will be given a five yearly recommendation from their responsible officer or suitable person, based on which the GMC would make a decision. 

Doctors without a connection – you may not have a connection for example because you are not practising in the UK. In this case, you would similarly revalidate through a process of annual appraisals based on Good medical practice, annual returns submitted to us as well as a five-yearly assessment. The GMC would make a revalidation decision based on the outcomes of these activities. 

Doctors in training – these doctors would revalidate through meeting the requirements of their UK training programme and the GMC would make a decision based on a recommendation from the responsible officer of their training body. 

Full details on revalidation can be found on the GMC website

Please note, if you fail to comply with the requirements of registration, including appraisals, this puts your licence to practise at risk.  

Changing your Status on the GMC Register

If you're no longer practising medicine or enter into work that doesn’t require registration or a licence to practise, you can apply to give up your whole registration or just your licence. 

You can choose to give up either your registration or just your licence. Which of the two options is best for you will depend on your circumstances and we will go into more details on this below. 

Giving up your licence or registration is not final, and you can apply to restore it again when you're ready. 

The table below will allow you to understand whether it would be better for you to relinquish your registration, your licence or both, based on some considerations you may have. 

Relinquish your Registration

If you give up your licence only, you will still be able to prove your good standing with the GMC to other organisations, but you will pay a reduced annual retention fee. You will not be able to practise medicine in the UK. 

Relinquishing your registration (voluntary erasure) means that your name will remain on the GMC register but with the status ‘Not registered – Having relinquished registration’ 

You can request to give up your registration up to three months in advance, but if you hold full registration with a licence to practise, you will still need to take part in revalidation until your registration ends.  

Providing Medical Services

If you have provided medical services in the 5 years prior to giving up your registration, you will need to send the GMC a provision of medical services statement, from your employer to confirm you provided a medical service if you have used your medical knowledge and skills as part of your work. 

The form can be downloaded from the GMC website and should be completed by the individual, body, or organisation where you most recently provided these services, anywhere in the world. This includes unpaid and voluntary work, or any other sort of arrangement, whether it be formal or informal. 

Details of what should be accounted for in the form can be found here

Fees

There is a processing fee which applies when giving up your registration. If your application is received by the GMC: 

  • before your annual retention fee (ARF) is due, you will be refunded any unused part of your ARF. 
  • after your ARF is due, you will have to pay the outstanding balance before the GMC will end your registration. 

The fee is £10, but effective 1st April 2023, this will be changed to £0. 

Relinquish your Licence

If you give up your registration, you will not have to pay an annual retention fee. You will not be able to practise medicine in the UK. 

Giving up your licence but keeping your registration means you're able to prove your good standing with the GMC to other organisations. You will not however be able to practise medicine in the UK. 

Some things to bear in mind if you give up your licence: 

  • It’s your responsibility to establish that you do not need a licence for your work. 
  • You’re still bound by the principles of Good medical practice if you keep your registration without a licence. 
  • You must tell your employer and those who contract and use your services that you’ve given up your licence. 

You can apply to give up your licence to practise through your GMC Online account, through the ‘My Registration’ section and you will not need to provide any evidence or documentation. 

Full details of the documentation needed to reinstate your licence can be found here
 
Fees

There is a processing fee which applies when giving up your licence to practise. The fee is £10, but effective 1st April 2023, this will be changed to £0. 

Restore your Licence to Practice

If you were up-to-date with revalidation when you gave it up, it is relatively straightforward to have it restored. 

From 2016 to 2017, it took on average 22 days for licence restoration, and you can apply for restoration up to three months in advance. 

You'll need to send the GMC: 

  • evidence to confirm your identity 
  • statements from organisations you have most recently provided medical services to 
  • certificates of good standing from any other regulators you’ve been registered with in the past five years 

You might also be asked to attend an identity check, but the GMC will confirm this once your application has been granted and your licence restored. 

Please note, if you were not up-to-date with revalidation when you relinquished your licence, you will be given a new revalidation submission date, and you will need to meet any requirements you failed to meet when you withdrew your licence. 

You can apply to restore your licence to practise through your GMC Online account, through the ‘My Registration’ section, then ‘My Applications’. 

Fees

There is a processing fee which applies when restoring your licence to practise. The fee is £10, but effective 1st April 2023, this will be changed to £0. 

Sources

https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/information-for-doctors-on-the-register/maintain-your-registration 

https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/information-for-doctors-on-the-register/revalidation 

https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/changing-your-status-on-the-register/restoration-to-the-register 

https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/changing-your-status-on-the-register/giving-up-your-licence-to-practise 

https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/changing-your-status-on-the-register/giving-up-your-registration-and-licence-to-practise  


Getting started

We hope this article gives you a clearer picture of the different ways you can manage your GMC registration.  

If you are looking to restore your registration or licence, get in touch with our team for support in finding your perfect role in the NHS and relocating to the UK – we’re always happy to help. 

Read more useful articles on exams, NHS jobs and salaries in our IMG Resources library. 

For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below: 

            

 

Relevant Jobs

99,532 - £107

An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (or equivalent) are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.

  • Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.

  • Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.

  • Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.

LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of heritage and modern living.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

105,504- 139,882

An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.

  • Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.

  • Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.

  • Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.

LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

  • Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

    • Document gathering and checking

    • COS and Visa Application support if applicable

    • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

    • Travel arrangements

    • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

105,504 to 139,882

An NHS district general hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in skin cancer and minor skin surgery. The Dermatology department comprises a team of locum consultants, an experienced Specialty Doctor, and a Biologic Nurse Consultant, supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) or SCE are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Full GMC registration and significant experience in general dermatology and minor surgery, are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in skin cancer management and dermatological surgery should apply. The salary will be between £109,725 and £145,478 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Deliver high-quality general dermatology services, including urgent and routine outpatient clinics.
  • Participate in subspecialty clinics, particularly for skin cancer diagnosis, management, and surgery.
  • Contribute to departmental management, teaching, and supervision of junior doctors and medical students.
  • Support service development and clinical governance through audit, guideline development, and education initiatives.

LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND

???????This hospital is situated in the north of England, with popular residential areas including vibrant cities and picturesque countryside locations. Urban dwellers may enjoy city life in places like Sheffield or Leeds, while rural enthusiasts might prefer the surrounding villages and national parks. The region offers great schools, excellent transport connections, and a wide variety of leisure activities for all lifestyles. Historically significant for its industrial roots, the area remains a vital and evolving part of British heritage and modern living.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
105,504- 139,882

An NHS cancer centre in Northern Ireland is seeking a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with a specialist interest in Upper GI and Breast cancers. The department includes 11 oncology consultants and is supported by a team of middle grade doctors and specialty trainees. This position is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with FRCR or European Specialist Registration.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should have full GMC registration and at least 6 years of postgraduate experience in Clinical Oncology. The salary for this role is between £88,799 and £119,723, dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Manage patients with Upper GI and Breast cancers across inpatient and outpatient settings.

  • Engage in tumour site-specific MDTs and contribute to treatment planning and decision-making.

  • Support the training and mentoring of oncology registrars and junior doctors.

  • Contribute to service development, teaching, and clinical governance.

LIFE IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Based in the north-west region of Northern Ireland, this location offers both city and rural living, with access to scenic countryside, the coast, and neighbouring towns. The area features well-rated schools, convenient transport infrastructure, and rich opportunities for cultural, historical, and recreational pursuits. It’s a growing destination for healthcare professionals seeking balance between professional development and quality of life.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?*

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

  • Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking

  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable

  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

  • Travel Arrangements

  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

107,144 - 142,369
An NHS teaching hospital in Scotland is looking for a Consultant Haematologist with an interest in Thrombosis and Obstetrics Haematology. The Haematology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath qualifications are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Deliver Haematology services across multiple NHS hospital sites, with inpatient care based at the main centre.
  • Conduct outpatient clinics, lab-based diagnostics, MDT participation, and administrative responsibilities.
  • Participate in the on-call rota (1 in 8), including weekend ward rounds and lab duties.
  • Support the development of junior doctors and engage in audit, research, and quality improvement.
LIFE IN SCOTLAND

The hospital is based in the central belt of Scotland, with urban living options like Glasgow and more rural choices such as the Clyde Valley. The region offers a good range of schools, strong public transport, and plenty of leisure activities for both professionals and families. Historically rich and industrially significant, this area has evolved into a hub for modern healthcare delivery and research.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
  • Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

Search Vacancies

Ask a question

Check your salary

error: Content is protected !!