Our Frequently Asked Questions page provides clear answers regarding the firearms medical certification process.

Whether you’re wondering about the steps for obtaining a medical report, the timeline for assessments, or the specific requirements for firearms licence applications, this page covers the key information needed.

It also addresses the role of your GP, the fees involved, and what to expect when using ShootCert’s services, ensuring transparency and ease throughout the application process.

Displaying 1 - 6 of 6

ShootCert does not offer a telephone enquiry service. Handling enquiries in writing keeps communication clear, accurate and traceable, while helping our team respond efficiently.

If you are an existing applicant, please use the feedback form in your Progress Dashboard. This is the fastest way to contact us about your application and ensures your message is linked directly to your case.

If you are not yet a customer, or you are contacting us on behalf of a GP practice, police force or another organisation, please use our contact form and select the appropriate option.

 

This FAQ relates to: Before you apply with ShootCert, During your application, After you have received your certificate


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.

 

This FAQ relates to: After you have received your certificate


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.

 

This FAQ relates to: After you have received your certificate


If you believe part of your report is inaccurate or unexpected, let us know which section you’re concerned about and why. We’ll check the original medical notes and explain exactly where the information came from. If it’s our error, we’ll correct and re-issue your report. If the issue lies within your GP records, you may need to request an amendment directly with your GP practice.

Read the full guidance here: https://www.shootcert.co.uk/information-disputes/

 

This FAQ relates to: After you have received your certificate


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. Please read our Cancellation and Refund Policy Terms (Section 10).

Please read the full guidance here: https://www.shootcert.co.uk/refunds-and-cancellations/

 

This FAQ relates to: Before you apply with ShootCert, During your application, After you have received your certificate


We handle your data with care and security at every stage:

  • Digital records: Your medical notes are stored securely for around 10 years so we can respond if the police ever need to check a certificate.
  • Hard copies: Paper notes are kept for about 1 month, then securely shredded.
  • Application data: Your application details are archived securely in line with our Privacy Policy

 

This FAQ relates to: After you have received your certificate


ShootCert Pricing

  • Our application fee is £79+VAT
  • If you require our Print & Post add-on service (ideal if you don’t have a printer) +£20+VAT
  • If you require a hard copy medical certificate posted to you, +£5.95+VAT (included in our Print & Post service).

FAQs last updated: 15 July 2026