GMC reference numbers

  1. Summary
  2. Registration and licensing requirements
  3. Pre-employment checks
  4. What to check
  1. GMC reference numbers
  2. A doctor’s identity
  3. Doctors with restrictions on their practice
  4. Doctors working overseas

What is a GMC reference number? 

When doctors first make contact with us we give them a seven digit reference number. They keep this throughout their professional career. This reference number is their unique identifier.

Check the GMC reference number

Just because a doctor has a reference number, it does not mean the doctor is currently on the register.

It's important you check the doctor's registration and licence to practise details with us.

You also need to make sure you have the correct GMC reference number and it belongs to the doctor you want to employ.

Displaying names and GMC reference numbers

A doctor should share their reference number with patients and the public, in line with Paragraph 83 of Good medical practice. 

You can help your doctors do this by displaying their registered name and GMC reference number wherever possible. 

Examples are:

  • on stationery
  • on door signs
  • on name plates
  • on websites.

Read our guidance for doctors about names and GMC reference numbers.

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