How to Find Your NHS Number

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: July 29, 2024 References

In the UK, an NHS number is a unique 10 digit code that identifies patients who are registered with the National Health Service. Anyone born in the UK after 2002 automatically receives an NHS number at birth and may continue to use it for medical care. If you do not already have an NHS number you can obtain one by registering with a GP practice.^{[1]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK

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Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Locating Your NHS Number

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Some people make the mistake of equating their NHS number with their National Insurance (NI) number. The latter is used exclusively for dealing with your tax and pension information. Take note of your NI number to make sure you do not use it by mistake for health-related concerns.
As a general rule, any official letters or documents sent to you by the NHS should also contain your NHS number. Look through your mail for official NHS correspondence. This could include appointment letters, test results, hospital referrals, or prescriptions.^{[2]
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If you can't locate your NHS number, visit your general practitioner's office to see if they can give it to you. If you are registered with them, they should have access to your NHS number and be authorized to provide it to you. It is best to show up in person instead of calling as you may be asked to show a form of I.D., like a passport or driver's license, before they will tell you the number. ^{[3]
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Call your nearest primary care trust (PCT) and ask to speak to someone dealing with patient GP registrations. They should be able to locate your NHS number for you. To find the PCT closest to you, visit the “Find Services” section of the NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk/service-search.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Getting Services without an NHS Number

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1
Obtain a number by registering with a GP's office. Any UK-born individual who registers with a GP office in the U.K. will receive an NHS number. Visit the GP's office to complete form GMS1 for family doctor services registration. You will be asked to show a government-issued photo I.D. when you submit your form.^{[4]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK

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- Visit https://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/LocationSearch/4 to locate a GP practice near you.
- Note that if you were not born in the UK, you will not be able to obtain an NHS number.
If you are visiting the UK from another country in the European Economic Area (EEA), show your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Anyone who is insured for healthcare in one of these countries can receive NHS services without charge. The spouse and minor children of an insured citizen of an EEA country will also receive NHS services free of charge.^{[5]
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Pay an NHS surcharge when you apply for an immigration visa. When you apply for a student or working visa to the UK, opt to pay the immigrant health surcharge. This fee will allow you access to NHS services with a unique IHS number. The charge is £150 to £200 per year of the visa.^{[6]
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Official UK government website
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- For instance, someone obtaining a 5 year visa will have to pay between £750 and £1000.