Applying for a firearm or shotgun certificate involves more than completing an application form. Medical information is an important part of the licensing process, and missing or incomplete information can delay an application.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a firearms medical is simply a routine check where a doctor decides whether someone is “healthy enough” to own a firearm.
In reality, the process is more specific. The doctor provides relevant medical information to the police, while the police are ultimately responsible for deciding whether an applicant is suitable to hold a certificate.
What Is a Firearms Medical?
When applying for a firearm or shotgun certificate in England, Scotland or Wales, applicants must provide medical information from their GP or another suitably qualified GMC-registered doctor.
The current Home Office guidance states that the applicant is responsible for obtaining this medical information, using the medical proforma included with the firearms application.
The doctor is asked to consider the applicant’s medical history and identify relevant conditions that could affect their ability to safely possess a firearm or shotgun.
This does not mean that the doctor is simply giving the applicant a pass or fail.
The final decision about whether a certificate should be granted belongs to the police firearms licensing department.
That distinction is important. A doctor may identify a relevant medical condition without that automatically meaning the application will be refused.
What Medical Conditions Can Cause Problems?
The Home Office guidance provides examples of medical conditions that may be relevant to firearms licensing.
These include certain mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychotic illness, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. Suicidal thoughts, self-harm or thoughts of harming others are also specifically relevant.
Neurological conditions, including epilepsy and conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and Huntington’s disease, may also need to be considered. Alcohol or drug abuse can be relevant too.
The list is not exhaustive. Doctors are expected to consider any mental, physical or neuro-developmental condition that could affect the safe possession of a firearm, either now or in the future.
Recent changes to the application process have also introduced a specific reference to neuro-developmental issues as potentially relevant medical conditions.
Having one of these conditions does not necessarily mean that you will automatically be refused. The circumstances, severity, treatment, stability and overall risk are important.
Why Are Firearms Applications Delayed?
A surprisingly common problem is not necessarily the medical condition itself — it is incomplete medical information.
The police cannot grant a firearm or shotgun certificate without the required medical information. If the information is missing, the application cannot progress and may ultimately be refused.
The process can also take longer if the doctor identifies a relevant condition and the police require additional information before making a decision.
Applicants may therefore be asked for a further medical report or specialist information. The Home Office guidance explains that additional reports may be requested where the police need more information about a relevant medical issue.
At SimplyMedicals, we provide firearms medical services for applicants who need medical information completed by a suitably qualified doctor. The aim is to make the process straightforward and ensure the appropriate documentation is completed correctly.
Before booking, make sure you know exactly which form or medical information your licensing authority requires. Having the correct paperwork from the beginning can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Most importantly, be open about your medical history. Firearms licensing is ultimately a safety process, and accurate medical information allows the police to make an informed decision about your application.
Ultimately, It all starts with your firearms medical .
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