Applying for a firearms licence in the UK requires several steps, and one of the most critical is obtaining a firearms medical report. This report confirms that the applicant does not have any medical condition that could pose a risk if they were to own a firearm. At SimplyMedicals, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals through the process, and we know that delays or rejections often come down to simple, avoidable mistakes. In this post, we’ll walk through the most common pitfalls applicants face during the firearms medicals process—and how to avoid them.
Incomplete or Delayed Medical Information
One of the main reasons for delays in firearms medicals is the failure to submit a complete and accurate medical history. When applying for a firearms or shotgun certificate, your GP must provide a factual report detailing any relevant physical or mental health issues. However, GPs are not always contractually obligated to complete these reports quickly—or at all.
Tip: Use a private medical service like SimplyMedicals to speed up the process. We have experience liaising with GPs and can often access medical records faster than the applicant alone. Make sure you submit your signed consent form promptly so we can begin the process without delay.
Misunderstanding What’s Considered a Relevant Condition
Many applicants are unsure which medical conditions are flagged during the assessment. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and neurological disorders like epilepsy are particularly scrutinised by licensing authorities. Even if these conditions were historical or treated successfully, they must still be disclosed.
Tip: Don’t guess—disclose. Hiding or forgetting to mention a condition can lead to automatic refusal or revocation of a licence. Instead, provide accurate dates, diagnoses, and any supporting information that shows your condition is well-managed or no longer active.
Waiting Too Long to Start the Medical Process
The firearms application process is time-sensitive. The police require your completed medical report as part of the application or shortly afterward. Waiting until the last minute can lead to delays in processing your application or even a rejection due to incomplete documentation.
Tip: Begin the firearms medical process as soon as you know you’re applying for a licence—or at least 4–6 weeks before your planned submission date. SimplyMedicals can typically complete your medical within a week once we receive all the required documents.
Final Thoughts
The firearms medical assessment doesn’t need to be stressful or time-consuming. At SimplyMedicals, we offer fast, compliant firearms medicals that meet police requirements. Our experienced clinicians work efficiently to ensure you receive a thorough and accurate report without unnecessary delay.
If you’re preparing for your firearms licence application, avoid the common pitfalls by booking your firearms medical with SimplyMedicals today. With the right support, the process can be smooth, swift, and stress-free.
Ultimately, It all starts with your firearms medical .
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