Do you need a face‑to‑face appointment for your Shotgun Medical Report?
When applying for or renewing a UK shotgun certificate, you must provide a medical report completed by a GMC‑registered doctor. This requirement comes from strengthened Home Office statutory guidance designed to ensure consistent and safety‑focused firearms licensing.
So… do you need a face‑to‑face appointment?
In most cases, no.
There is no legal requirement for an in‑person appointment. Doctors are required to provide factual medical information based on your GP records—not carry out a physical examination—unless there is a clear clinical need.
For most applicants, the process is handled completely remotely.
What the law requires:
- A GMC‑registered doctor must complete your medical report.
- The police cannot process your application without this report.
- The report must be based on a review of your GP medical records, confirming relevant conditions or stating none are present.
- Doctors provide facts only; the police decide whether you are suitable to hold a certificate.
Why are remote assessments accepted?
Remote assessments are widely accepted because:
- Firearms medicals are record‑based, not physical examinations.
- Your GP records provide clear evidence regarding mental health, neurological conditions, or substance misuse.
- The Home Office focuses on receiving verified information, not physical checks.
When might a face‑to‑face appointment be needed?
- Your GP records are unclear or incomplete
- A doctor needs clarification to provide accurate information
- A specific condition genuinely requires direct assessment
These cases are very rare.
Why Use a Private Provider Like Shotgun Medicals?
✔ Faster Turnaround Times
GP surgeries often have long waiting times or may decline to complete firearms medicals. Private providers specialise in them, meaning quicker processing.
✔ No Face‑to‑Face Appointment Required
The entire report can usually be completed online, without stepping foot in a clinic.
✔ Firearms Medical Specialists
Professionals who understand exactly what police forces expect, reducing delays and ensuring your report is correct the first time.
✔ Clear Pricing & Nationwide Service
No hidden fees, no NHS delays — just a smooth, efficient process.
For almost all applicants, shotgun medical reports are:
- Fully compliant when completed remotely
- Efficient and straightforward
- Accepted by police forces nationwide
With Shotgun Medicals, you can complete your entire medical report quickly, remotely and without any face‑to‑face appointment — making the process simple, stress‑free, and fully compliant.