Specialist or GP registration only for doctors who hold a Recognised Specialist Qualification under three years old

Published 16 May 2024

This is for doctors who want to join the Specialist or GP Register.

Am I eligible to apply?

You may be eligible to apply for entry onto the Specialist or GP Register if you have a been awarded a specialist or GP qualification on our Recognised Specialist Qualification list. 

You must check your qualification is on our list of recognised specialist qualifications, and that:

  • The title of it is exactly the same as the one in our list, and;
  • it meets the qualification specifications or further requirements in the list. 

There is guidance on further information you will need to provide in your application if you qualification was awarded more than three years ago. 

Translating documents that are not in English

For every document that is not in English, you must provide a copy in the original language and a complete and accurate English translation.

All translations must include the contact details of the translation service or translator. This should be attached to the translation, and your documents must be stamped and signed by the translation service.

Who can translate my documents?

We strongly advise your translations are done by:  

  • court or council appointed translators or
  • reputable commercial translation services. 

Before you use any commercial translation service, you should check that:

  • it has a generally recognised professional accreditation or
  • it has a membership with a relevant professional or trade association.

In the UK, professional associations of translators include:

All three provide online directories of their members which you may find helpful.

How do I apply?

Once you have checked you hold a recognised specialist qualification, you’ll need to have your recognised specialist qualification independently verified before we can grant your registration. Read about what primary source verification means for you.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you should log in to GMC Online and make your application for entry onto the Specialist Register. 

I don’t hold full registration

You'll need to make an application for full registration with a licence to practise and entry onto the Specialist Register at the same time.