Registering with your GP & activating the NHS App

A step-by-step guide for patients — no photo ID required

🔒 No photo ID needed
GP surgery step NHS App step Your action
Phase 1 — Get online access from your GP
1

Contact your GP surgery

Call, visit in person, or send an email and ask to be registered for online services. This is a standard request — any receptionist will know what you mean.


They will likely ask you to write down your Name, DOB, email and a brief message "requesting online services" on paper, and that you hand it in at the surgery. (Clarify this with your GP)

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2

Verify your identity with the GP

The surgery will confirm you are a registered patient. No photo ID is required for this step. They may ask a few security questions (date of birth, address, NHS number if you have it).


Note: You must be registered for online services before you can request your linkage details (the next step) but your experience may vary.

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3

Receive your linkage details — keep these safe!

The surgery will give you three pieces of information, on paper or by email:

● Linkage key (also called a passphrase)
● ODS code (your surgery's unique code)
● Account ID

You will need all three in Step 6. Store them somewhere safe.

Phase 2 — Set up the NHS App
4

Download the NHS App & create an NHS login

Search for "NHS App" on the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android). Install it, then tap Create an NHS login and register with your email address.

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Step 5 — verify your identity: choose one route
5a

No photo ID route ✓

Answer security questions online based on your personal details, or use a face scan (biometrics) via your phone camera. No documents needed.

5b

With photo ID (optional)

If you do have a passport or driving licence, you can scan it in the app to verify faster.

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6

Link your GP surgery in the app

Go to Your health > Connect your GP inside the NHS App. Enter the linkage key, ODS code, and account ID you received in Step 3.

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7

You're in! 🎉

You can now book appointments, order repeat prescriptions, view your medical records, and see test results — all from your phone.

📞 If the no-ID route fails: Call NHS login support on 0300 303 5678. They can verify your identity manually over the phone — no photo ID required for this either. Lines are open Monday–Friday.

⚠️ Please note: this is a last resort option and not a guarantee. The support team will do their best to help, but outcomes may vary depending on your individual circumstances. Every person's experience may differ.