What do you do after you get your results?

What do you do after you pass?

If you pass PLAB 1 you can immediately apply to take PLAB 2 using GMC Online.

The available PLAB 2 test dates can be seen in GMC Online once you have your PLAB 1 results.  

You can't apply for PLAB 2 before the results have been issued. 

Changes to PLAB 1 validity

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we increased the amount of time a PLAB 1 pass is valid from two years to three years. This was due to the impact that travel restrictions and social distancing were having on candidates and our ability to offer places.

From 31 March 2025 this extension will end. This means:

• after this date, all candidates must pass PLAB 2 within two years of passing PLAB 1
• if you passed PLAB 1 before 31 March 2023, you will have to book PLAB 2 before your validity expires on 31 March 2025. You can book any available date based on your current validity, even if it’s due to take place after 31 March and all bookings will be honoured.

Please note that your pass date is the date you took the test, and not the date your results were issued. 

What do you do if you fail?

If you fail PLAB 1, you can book to take the exam again provided you still meet all the requirements. You can continue to attempt the exam until you have failed it four times.

If you’ve failed the exam four times, you can apply for one final attempt. You will need to demonstrate evidence of additional learning over a 12 month period and make an application to us.

Can you have your results checked?

No, this is a service we no longer offer. After reviewing our processes, we’re confident that our marking is robust, and that a manual check won’t change the result.

However, you can still appeal your result.