How to register with a GP surgery
You can register with a GP in England online in about 15 minutes, and you don't need ID or proof of address. Here's how, plus what to do if a surgery says no.
- Time
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 6
- Checked
What you’ll need
- Your name, date of birth and address
- Your NHS number, if you know it (optional)
- Details of your previous GP, if you had one
Safety first
- In an emergency call 999. If you need urgent help and aren't registered, use NHS 111.
Step by step
-
Step 1: Find surgeries near you
Use the NHS website's Find a GP service and enter your postcode. It shows which surgeries cover your address and whether they're accepting new patients.
Next: step 2 -
Step 2: Choose one and register online
Many surgeries let you register online through the NHS website, which takes about 15 minutes. Otherwise ask the surgery for a registration form (often called a GMS1) or fill it in on their website.
Next: step 3 -
Step 3: Know what you don't need
You don't need ID, proof of address or proof of immigration status to register, and you don't need an NHS number, though it helps find your records. Anyone in England can register with a GP and get free GP care.
Next: step 4 -
Step 4: Wait for confirmation
The surgery will confirm when you're registered. Your medical records will be moved over from your previous GP automatically. You may be offered a new-patient health check.
Next: step 5 -
Step 5: Set up the NHS App
Once registered, the NHS App lets you book appointments, order repeat prescriptions and see parts of your record, depending on your surgery.
Next: step 6 -
Step 6: If you're refused
A surgery can refuse if its list is closed, you live outside its area, or you were removed from its list before. It must explain why in writing within 14 days. Try another surgery, or contact your local integrated care board (ICB), Healthwatch or Citizens Advice for help.
Tips
- Register as soon as you move, before you're ill.
- You can register with a surgery near work instead of home, but home visits and some community services may not be available.
- Staying somewhere for up to 3 months? Ask to register as a temporary resident.
This guide covers England. In Scotland see NHS inform, in Wales see NHS 111 Wales, and in Northern Ireland see nidirect for how to register.
Questions people ask
Do I need to register to see a GP?
You can be seen as a temporary resident or for emergency treatment, but registering gives you full ongoing care.
Can I register a baby or child?
Yes, the same way. Babies are often registered after their birth is registered.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026. We wrote this guide in our own words, using:
- NHS: How to register with a GP surgery (nhs.uk)
- NHS: Find a GP (nhs.uk)
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