Last updated: 27 August 2025
ShootCert
Medical Certificates for Shotgun/Firearm License Applications
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ShootCert Ltd operates shootcert.co.uk, which provides Medical Information Proforma Services. This page is used to inform website visitors regarding our policies with the collection, use, and disclosure of Personal Information if anyone decides to use our services. If you choose to use our service, then you agree to the collection and use of information in relation to this policy. The Personal Information that we collect is used to identify you and to provide and improve our services. We will not use or share your information with anyone except as described in this Privacy Policy. The terms used in this Privacy Policy have the same meanings as in our Terms and Conditions unless otherwise defined in this Privacy Policy.
For a better experience, while using our Service, we may require you to provide us with certain personally identifiable information, including but not limited to your name, phone number, date of birth, and postal address. The information that we collect will be used to contact or identify you.
We store your data on secure servers in the United Kingdom using compliant third party encryption methods. Emails sent to and from shootcert.co.uk containing your data are ISO27001:2013 certified and compliant with the ISB 1596 NHS Secure Email Standard.
We want to inform you that whenever you visit our website, we collect information that your browser sends to us which is called Log Data. This Log Data may include information such as your computer’s Internet Protocol (“IP”) address, browser version, pages of our service that you visit, the time and date of your visit, the time spent on those pages, and other statistics.
Cookies are files with a small amount of data that is commonly used as an anonymous unique identifier. These are sent to your browser from the website that you visit and are stored on your computer’s hard drive.
Our website uses these “cookies” to collect information and to improve our Service. You have the option to either accept or refuse these cookies and know when a cookie is being sent to your computer. If you choose to refuse our cookies, you may not be able to use some portions of our website.
We may employ third-party companies and individuals due to the following reasons:
We want to inform our Medical Information Proforma Services users that these third parties have access to your Personal Information. The reason is to perform the tasks assigned to them on our behalf. However, they are obligated not to disclose or use the information for any other purpose.
We value your trust in providing us with your Personal Information, thus we are striving to use commercially acceptable means of protecting it. But remember that no method of transmission over the internet, or method of electronic storage is 100% secure and reliable, and we cannot guarantee its absolute security.
Our Service may contain links to other sites. If you click on a third-party link, you will be directed to that site. Note that these external sites are not operated by us. Therefore, we strongly advise you to review the Privacy Policy of these websites. We have no control over and assume no responsibility for the content, privacy policies, or practices of any third-party sites or services.
Our Services do not address anyone under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personally identifiable information from children under 13. In the case we discover that a child under 13 has provided us with personal information, we immediately delete this from our servers. If you are a parent or guardian and you are aware that your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so that we will be able to do the necessary actions.
Shootcert operates as both a data controller and a data processor.
Our data protection officer is James R.
You have the right to be informed about the collection and use of your data which is outlined in the policy.
* You can contact us to request this information. If you believe that any of the information we hold about you is incorrect, please get in touch so that we can put that right.
We may update our Privacy Policy from time to time. Thus, we advise you to review this page periodically for any changes. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page. These changes are effective immediately after they are posted on this page.
If you have any questions or suggestions about our Privacy Policy, do not hesitate to contact us.
Version 1.1 Updated 21 Dec 2020
Last updated: 27 August 2025
Yes – it’s worth asking your GP first. Some practices will provide the report for you, though many either decline or charge a high fee.
If your GP can’t help, or their fee is unreasonable, you can apply with ShootCert, where a GMC-registered doctor will complete your medical certificate quickly and efficiently.
A Subject Access Request (SAR) is simply the legal term for asking to see the personal data an organisation holds about you. In this case, it’s how we obtain a copy of your full medical notes from your GP.
A third-party SAR is when ShootCert submits that request on your behalf—with your written permission. Learn more.
Under UK data protection law, you have the right to access this information.
No – we’ve got that covered. We’ll provide everything the police need: the signed medical consent form and our completed ShootCert medical pro forma (the last four pages of the Form 201). You simply attach these to your firearms application.
Don’t leave it to the last minute. For renewals, apply about 3–5 months before your current licence expires. This gives your GP plenty of time to send us your medical notes and keeps everything on track.
Tip: If your renewal is still a way off, sign up for our Renewal Reminder Service.
No phone line – and that’s deliberate. To keep everything clear, accurate and traceable, we handle all enquiries in writing. This means you’ll always have a record of what’s been said, and we can quickly locate previous conversations if needed.
Use the contact form on this site to get in touch – it’s the fastest way to reach us. We’ll reply by email, and in rare cases (for example, to clarify something complex) our admin or doctor may call you or your GP directly.
Almost – but not everything. You’ll need to make sure your GP acknowledges the Subject Access Request (SAR) and confirms your ID and registration with the practice.
Once that’s done, we usually handle things directly with your GP. If they need anything else – extra consent or information – we’ll email you clear instructions so you know exactly what to do.
No problem – we’ve got two easy options:
Tip: Always take some ID with you – your practice may need to confirm who you are.
Yes – if you can’t give us a GP email address and you don’t have a printer, we’ll print your pre-written consent letters and send them to your home.
You’ll then need to hand-deliver them to your GP practice. Why? Because it gets the best results, it encourages your practice to engage with the request, and it lets them confirm your identity if needed. Take some photo ID with you just in case.
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number/
You should also be able to find your NHS Number on any letter or document you have received from the NHS, including prescriptions, test results, and hospital referral or appointment letters. If you cannot find your NHS Number in these ways, use the link above or you can ask your GP practice to help you.
Find a territorial Police force:
Opens in new window: https://www.shootcert.co.uk/police-firearm-contacts/
No – we can’t accept medical notes by email. Scans or photos can’t guarantee the records are complete and unaltered. We can only use original, sealed copies sent directly from your GP (or handed to you, still sealed).
Most practices cooperate without issue – but occasionally a GP may try to charge a high fee. The BASC legal team and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) are clear: a full set of notes is not considered excessive, and charges should only apply if a request is “manifestly unfounded or excessive.”
If your GP demands an unreasonable fee, we’ll push back. We have a proven process, backed by ICO guidance, to challenge unfair charges. We’ll give you ready-made complaint letters and handle the evidence for you. It can take time, but we don’t give up – and neither should you.
Yes – but there are strict rules.
ShootCert
PO Box 1700
NORTHAMPTON
NN2 1LE
(Couriers like DHL, DPD or Evri can’t deliver to PO Boxes.)
Breaking these rules can stop our doctor from completing your certificate.
Already holding a hard copy? [See this answer instead.]
No, because you are not registered with an NHS GP service, we won't be able to obtain your medical notes. Learn more about Defence Medical Services (DMS).
Absolutely. Every ShootCert doctor is GMC-registered and holds a current licence to practise – either as a GP or on the GMC Specialist Register. This isn’t just our standard; it’s a Home Office requirement for firearms medical certificates. Learn more.
Normally, we send the certificate straight to you. You then attach it to your shotgun or firearm application and send it to your police firearms department.
In rare cases, if our doctor believes the report needs police attention, we may send a copy directly to the firearms department as well.
For both first-time and renewal applications, police firearms departments now expect your entire medical history to be checked – even for renewals. To keep things consistent and avoid delays, ShootCert requires your full record for every application.
If you’ve used ShootCert before, we only need records back to your last consultation date, plus a reasonable overlap to ensure nothing’s missed.
Our pre-written consent letters explain this clearly to you and your GP once you apply and pay.
The biggest variable is your GP – they can legally take up to 30 days to send us your notes. That’s why we always say: apply early, especially for renewals.
Once we have your notes and they’ve been checked, we’ll aim to send your certificate within 5–10 working days.
For a step-by-step timeline, see our How It Works page
Usually, no. Police guidance says our doctor must get your notes directly from your GP, so we know they’re complete and authentic.
But there are a few exceptions:
ShootCert
PO Box 1700
NORTHAMPTON
NN2 1LE
(Couriers like DHL, DPD, Evri can’t deliver to PO Boxes.)
Your notes must always be the latest full record, not just a summary.
Medical conditions that could be relevant include:
ShootCerts doctors require sight of your full medical record to enable the doctor to confirm whether you are or have been, diagnosed or treated for any relevant medical conditions, including mental health conditions. You do have the right to withhold certain information from the medical history provided, however, you acknowledge that in doing so, the completed medical proforma certificate may be considered unfit for purpose. For example:
We usually get an acknowledgement from your GP when they receive your Subject Access Request (SAR), and we’ll let you know when we do.
If there’s no acknowledgement within 10 days, or if we still haven’t received your notes by day 25, you’ll get an email from ShootCert to prompt you to follow up with your GP.
If another 5–10 days pass without progress, tell us. We’ll provide you with a formal reminder letter for your GP, highlighting their legal obligation to respond.
If you hear back from your practice at any stage, please let us know so we can update your case file.
You can use our GP Practice Finder to locate your NHS practice name and address.
We work hard to keep our emails secure and reliable. All notifications from shootcert.co.uk are sent via SendGrid to protect our domain reputation and improve delivery.
Sometimes, though, email providers can be extra cautious, and our messages may land in your spam or junk folder.
If you still can’t find them, get in touch via our contact form and we’ll happily resend anything you’ve missed.
You’ll need a medical certificate every time you apply, whether it's your first application, a renewal or a variation to your licence. According to the Home Office and BASC, a medical proforma is mandatory for all shotgun or firearm licence applications
Most firearms and shotgun certificates are valid for five years, so expect to submit a fresh medical certificate at each renewal
Since 2021, the Home Office guidance has made this requirement clear and non-negotiable: applications must be accompanied by a medical report from a GMC-registered doctor, or the application will not proceed
A firearms medical certificate doesn’t have an official expiry date, but the police expect it to be recent – usually no more than six months old when you submit it with your application.
You’ll need a new certificate every time you apply for a shotgun or firearm licence, including at renewal (normally every five years). Older certificates can’t be reused, even if nothing has changed.
Check with your local firearms department for their guidance.
Refunds are rare, but here’s how it works:
If we can’t issue a certificate because your medical history is unusually complex, we’ll refund you in full – no problem. Please see our full Terms (Section 8) on what options are available to you in this situation.
If you change your mind after paying, we can’t refund you. As soon as your payment is made, the process starts instantly – letters go out, your GP is contacted, and multiple parties are notified. Once this happens, it can’t be reversed.
We handle your data with care and security at every stage:
(about 10 minutes)
Before you start, spend a few minutes with our FAQs. They explain the process clearly and prepare you for the Subject Access Request (SAR) – the legal step that allows ShootCert to obtain your medical notes directly from your GP practice.
(about 5 minutes)
Our quick online form generates all the paperwork you need instantly.
As soon as you submit, you’ll receive a signed and personalised consent pack, including letters tailored to your chosen GP communication method.
Everything is ready to send without any extra effort.
(up to 30 days)
Your GP now has up to 30 days, by law, to send your medical notes to ShootCert. If nothing arrives by day 25, we’ll let you know and give you the tools to chase things up.
(5 – 10 working days)
As soon as we receive your records, one of ShootCert’s verifying GMC-registered doctors gets to work. Within 5–10 working days, your completed firearms medical certificate will be ready for you to attach to your licence application.
Last updated: 7 March 2025
Terms and Conditions for Firearms Medical Assessment with ShootCert.co.uk
1. Introduction
1.1. These Terms and Conditions govern the application process for a firearms medical assessment through ShootCert Ltd (“we”, “us”, “our”).
1.2. By applying for a firearms medical assessment, you (“the applicant”, “you”, “your”) agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.
2. Eligibility
2.1. You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
2.2. You must provide accurate and truthful information throughout the application process.
2.3. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet all legal and regulatory requirements for holding a firearms or shotgun certificate.
3. Application Process
3.1. All applications must be submitted via ShootCert.co.uk.
3.2. You must complete the medical assessment form fully and accurately.
3.3. We will process your application based on the medical information provided by you and your GP or medical professional.
3.4. Failure to provide required information or supporting documents may result in a delay or rejection of your application.
4. Fees and Payment
4.1. The applicable fee for the firearms medical assessment is displayed on our website and must be paid in full at the time of application.
4.2. All payments are non-refundable unless otherwise stated in these Terms and Conditions.
4.3. If additional medical records are required, you may be liable for any additional fees charged by your GP or medical provider.
5. Medical Assessment and Reporting
5.1. Our assessment is based solely on the medical information provided by you and your GP or relevant medical professional.
5.2. We do not provide a fitness-to-hold certificate but submit a factual medical report to the relevant licensing authority.
5.3. We are not responsible for the final decision made by the licensing authority regarding your firearms or shotgun certificate.
6. Accuracy of Information
6.1. You confirm that all information provided is accurate and complete to the best of your knowledge.
6.2. Any attempt to provide false or misleading information may result in the rejection of your application and may be reported to relevant authorities.
7. Processing Times
7.1. We aim to process applications within the timeframe stated on our website. However, this is subject to medical records being received in a timely manner.
7.2. We are not responsible for delays caused by third parties, including your GP or licensing authority.
8. Complex Medical Notes
8.1. In rare cases where your medical notes are highly complex and extend well beyond several hundred pages, we reserve the right to either offer you a full refund or propose an additional charge based on the complexity of the review. We can only determine the level of complexity once we have received and assessed your medical records.
8.2. The extra charge will be in addition to our standard fee and will be quoted to you beforehand in writing via email.
8.3. If you choose not to proceed with the additional charge, a full refund of the initial fee will be issued.
9. Data Protection and Confidentiality
9.1. We process your personal and medical data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
9.2. Your data will only be shared with relevant parties involved in the firearms licensing process.
9.3. For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
10. Cancellation and Refund Policy
10.1. Once an application has been submitted and payment has been made, cancellations are not permitted.
10.2. Refunds will only be issued in cases where we are unable to process your application due to an internal error on our part.
10.3. If you fail to provide required information or supporting documentation, no refund will be issued.
11. Limitation of Liability
11.1. ShootCert Ltd is not liable for any decisions made by the licensing authority regarding your firearms or shotgun certificate.
11.2. We are not responsible for any costs, losses, or damages resulting from delays in processing or rejection of an application.
11.3. Our liability is limited to the fees paid for our services.
12. Complaints and Disputes
12.1. If you have a complaint, please contact us via the details provided on our website.
12.2. We will endeavour to resolve all complaints in a timely and professional manner.
12.3. Any disputes arising from these Terms and Conditions shall be governed by the laws of England and Wales.
13. Amendments
13.1. We reserve the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time without prior notice.
13.2. Any changes will be effective immediately upon being posted on our website.
14. Contact Information
For any queries regarding these Terms and Conditions, please contact us via the details provided on our website.
By submitting your application, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.
Start typing the address beginning with a house or building number:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number/
You should also be able to find your NHS Number on any letter or document you have received from the NHS, including prescriptions, test results, and hospital referral or appointment letters. If you cannot find your NHS Number in these ways, use the link above or you can ask your GP practice to help you.