What Happens During a Firearm Medical? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applying for a firearm or shotgun licence in the UK can feel a little overwhelming, especially if it is your first time. One part of the application process that often raises questions is the firearm medical. Many applicants are unsure what the appointment involves and whether they need to prepare anything beforehand.
The good news is that firearm medical is a straightforward process. The purpose of the assessment is simply to ensure that there are no medical conditions that could affect safe firearm ownership. Below is a step-by-step guide explaining what usually happens during a firearm medical appointment.
1. Completing the Medical Form
Before your appointment, you will usually receive a medical form from your local police licensing department. This form is part of your firearm or shotgun licence application.
During the appointment, the doctor will go through this form with you to make sure all sections are completed correctly. You may be asked basic questions about your personal details and medical background to ensure the information is accurate.
If any sections have already been completed by you or the licensing authority, the doctor will review them and confirm that everything is in order.
2. Reviewing Your Health History
The next step involves a review of your general medical history. The doctor may ask questions about:
- Past medical conditions
- Current health issues
- Medications you are taking
- Any history of neurological conditions such as seizures or blackouts
This is a routine part of the process and helps the doctor understand your overall health. In most cases, this is simply a discussion rather than a physical examination.
3. Mental Health Considerations
Mental health is an important part of the firearm licensing assessment. The doctor may ask questions about your mental health history, including whether you have experienced conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.
This does not mean that having a past mental health condition automatically prevents you from obtaining a licence. The doctor’s role is simply to assess whether there are any concerns that might affect safe firearm ownership.
Being honest during this stage is important, as it allows the doctor to provide an accurate assessment for the licensing authority.
- Completing the Medical Form
- Reviewing Your Health History
- Mental Health Considerations
- GP Records Review (If Required)
- Doctor Completing the Certificate
4. GP Records Review (If Required)
In some cases, the doctor may need to review your GP medical records to confirm your medical history. This helps ensure that the information provided during the appointment matches your official health records.
If you already have access to your medical records through the NHS App or your GP surgery, you may be asked to bring them to the appointment. This can make the process quicker and easier.
Not every appointment requires a full GP record review, but having access to your records can be helpful.
5. Doctor Completing the Certificate
Once the review is complete, the doctor will fill out the medical certificate required for your firearm or shotgun licence application.
The certificate confirms whether there are any medical concerns relevant to firearm ownership. This document is then submitted to the police licensing department as part of your application.
In many cases, the process is completed during the same appointment, making it quick and convenient for applicants.
6. Motor Medicals – Firearm Medicals
Motor Medicals offers firearm and shotgun licence medicals with experienced GMC-registered doctors across the UK. During the appointment, the doctor will review your medical history and complete the required certificate for your firearms licence application.
Motor Medicals provides appointments at multiple clinic locations, making it easy to find a suitable time and place for your medical assessment.
To book your firearm medical, visit www.motormedicals.com or call 0161 241 9622 to arrange your appointment.
Book your Medical Today
Book your firearm medical today with experienced GMC-registered doctors. Quick, reliable appointments to complete your license application without delays.
