Identity checks

This guidance provides information for doctors about our pre-registration identity checks.

This guidance was most recently updated in October 2007.

1. Introduction

Pre-registration identity checking has been introduced in response to the UK's growing problem with identity theft. It is just one of many initiatives the GMC is undertaking to improve the rigour of our registration processes. A photograph will be taken during your identity check and this will be made available to employers so that they can be assured of your identity when you start work. You will also provide us with your signature for our records.  As well as assisting employers, these measures will help prevent anyone stealing your identity in the future. 

All applicants for registration and restoration (following a period outside medical practise or in medical practise outside the UK) must complete an identity check.

Please note that the application process is not complete until you have attended an ID check and provided us with a copy of your signature.

2. Evidence of identity

You will need to present your current passport or if you are an EEA National your passport and/or national identity card (provided it clearly states your nationality). Please note that certified copies are NOT acceptable.

3. Evidence retained by the GMC

We will:

• Take and retain a photograph of you
• Take and retain a copy of your signature
• Hold details from your passport
• Disclose your photograph on request to employers and others (only for identity purposes)

4. Applying for registration or restoration following a period outside medical practice in the UK

We appreciate that you may have previously held registration and that we may have your historical registration details. The photograph taken during your identity check will be made available to employers so that they can be assured of your identity when you start work. It will also help prevent anyone stealing your identity.

5. Sponsored doctors

If you are sponsored by an approved organisation you can contact them for more information about how and when you can complete your identity check or alternatively contact us.

6. Where will these checks take place?

At our London office which is open from 08.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday excluding bank holidays. The address is Regent's Place, 350 Euston Road London, NW1 3JN.

Show me a map of how to get to the London office (opens in a new window).

Identity checks can also take place at our Manchester office. The address is 5th Floor, St James's Buildings, 79 Oxford Street Manchester, M1 6FQ.

Show me a map of how to get to the Manchester office (opens in a new window).

7. Can I go to another GMC office?

No, at the moment identity checking can only be undertaken at our London or Manchester office. But we intend in the future to provide facilities for identity checking at our other UK offices.

8. How do I arrange an identity check?

The best way to arrange an identity check is in our secure web portal, MyGMC, in the My Appointments section, where you can see what appointments are available and choose a time to suit you.

If you are applying for registration or restoration, please wait until we contact you and invite you to book an identity check BEFORE you book.

To enter MyGMC, you will need your GMC reference number and your PIN and password.

Login to MyGMC (opens in a new window).

If you do not have a PIN and password, please contact us.

Alternatively, you can book an appointment using our enquiry form (opens in a new window) or you can contact us.