If you’re applying for a firearms or shotgun licence—whether it’s your first time or a renewal—you’ll need to provide medical information as part of your application.
But how far back should those medical notes go? And why does it matter?
At ShootCert, we’re often asked this question, so let’s clear up the confusion and explain exactly what’s required, why we require it, and how things will work moving forward.
First-Time Applicants: Your Complete Medical History
If you’re applying for a firearms or shotgun licence for the first time, ShootCert requires a complete medical history from birth to the present day. This allows our medical professionals to assess your full health background and ensure there are no concerns—past or present—that could affect your ability to safely possess a firearm.
A full medical history isn’t just a bureaucratic box-tick. It’s essential for making informed decisions that help protect the public, shooting communities, and applicants themselves. Some medical conditions, even if historic, may have long-term relevance, especially in cases involving mental health or substance use. We believe that a comprehensive view ensures fairness, consistency, and above all, safety.
Renewals: Complete History or As Much as Possible – Until November 2026
For licence renewals, we currently require your complete medical history, or as far back as is practically possible. We understand that for some older applicants, it may not be possible for a GP practice to supply every single record dating back decades. In such cases, we work with whatever is reasonably available, while maintaining our commitment to a thorough and fair assessment.
However, this transitional policy is only in place until November 2026.
After November 2026: 10-Year History for Renewals, Full Life for First-Time Grants
From November 2026, every gun owner in the UK will have had at least one medical certificate completed—whether by ShootCert, their own GP, or another registered provider. From that point on, our policy will change slightly:
First-time grants will still require a full life history.
Renewals will require at least the last 10 years of medical records.
This updated standard brings consistency across the board and aligns with national expectations as medical certification becomes a universal part of gun ownership.
The Importance of Unredacted Medical Notes
One of the most crucial elements of this process is the integrity of the information we receive. Medical records must be unredacted and complete. Any redaction—especially when done by the applicant—could inadvertently (or deliberately) remove vital information that’s relevant to the decision-making process.
ShootCert has a clear policy: we will only accept medical notes sent directly from the GP practice. This prevents any risk of interference, editing, or omissions by the applicant, and ensures we receive the records in their original, unaltered form.
This isn’t about mistrust—it’s about safeguarding a process that underpins public safety. The licensing of firearms is a serious matter, and transparency is key. When decisions are based on partial or redacted records, lives can be put at risk.
Working With GP Practices
We understand that some GP practices are unsure of what’s required or may be reluctant to release full records. ShootCert can help facilitate this process and provide clarity to practices where needed. Ultimately, supplying accurate and complete information is in everyone’s best interest.