How to Get an NHS Number: Quick and Easy Steps

NHS GP at hand

Online GP appointments

24/7 video/ telephone consultations

Same day access to doctors*

Fast, easy access. Rapid response time

Rapid response time

Prescriptions sent to your pharmacy

In clinic appointments available across five London locations

Register for an NHS Number

If you’ve recently moved to the UK or are new to the NHS, you may be wondering how to get an NHS number and register with a GP near you. Your NHS number is a unique code that connects you to your medical records and allows you to receive free healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS). At GP at hand, we make it easy to register with a GP online and get your NHS number fast.

Your NHS number is a unique 10-digit identifier used across the UK healthcare system. It helps doctors, hospitals, and clinics access your medical history quickly and securely. You’ll need it to:

  • Book GP or hospital appointments
  • Order prescriptions
  • Access your vaccination records
  • View your medical history on the NHS App

If you’ve never received NHS care before, you’ll be issued an NHS number when you register with a GP.

Non-urgent advice: Step 1: Register with a GP to Get an NHS Number

The easiest way to obtain an NHS number is by registering with a GP practice. You don’t need proof of address or immigration status to do so — just provide your personal details and, if possible, some form of ID such as a passport or visa.
At GP at hand, our digital-first registration process takes only a few minutes. You can complete everything online — no paperwork, no waiting in queues.

Once registered, we’ll handle everything with NHS England to ensure your NHS number is created or linked to your record automatically.

Register with GP at hand online today and get your NHS number quickly — no hassle, no delays.

Non-urgent advice: Step 2: How Long It Takes to Receive Your NHS Number

After you register with a GP, your NHS number is typically generated within a few days. If you already have one from previous NHS care, it will be linked automatically.

At GP at Hand, we keep the process smooth and transparent. You’ll receive confirmation from us once your registration is complete, and you can start using our services right away — even before your NHS number arrives.

Sign up with GP at hand for a faster registration process and immediate access to NHS GP services.

Non-urgent advice: Step 3: How to Find Out Your Existing NHS Number

If you’ve previously used NHS services, you may already have an NHS number. You can easily find it by:


1. Checking any NHS correspondence, such as appointment letters or prescriptions

2. Using the official Find your NHS number tool

3. Logging into the NHS App


When you register with GP at hand, our system automatically connects your existing NHS record to your new GP registration.

Non-urgent advice: Step 4: Access Your Medical Records Through the NHS App

Once your registration is complete, download the NHS App to access your health information anytime, anywhere. Through the app, you can:

1. View your medical history and vaccination record
2. Order repeat prescriptions
3
. Book or manage appointments
4
. Get health advice and symptom checks

After registering with GP at Hand, you’ll also enjoy 24/7 virtual consultations and easy access to our five modern London clinics for in-person care.

Register now with GP at Hand and start managing your NHS healthcare online.
Start Registration

Why Choose GP at hand?

At GP at hand, we combine traditional NHS care with cutting-edge technology to make healthcare faster, smarter, and more accessible.

Here’s what makes us the preferred choice for patients across London:

  • Same-day GP appointments (online or in-person)
  • Virtual consultations via video from anywhere in the UK
  • Five convenient London clinics for face-to-face care
  • Fast registration — get your NHS number and start care quickly
  • 24/7 access to trusted NHS doctors

Whether you’re new to the UK or looking to switch GP practices, GP at hand is your easiest route to getting your NHS number and accessing top-quality care.

Register with GP at hand today
Register Now

Non-urgent advice: Latest news

World Suicide Prevention Day – 10 September 2025
Theme: Changing the Narrative on Suicide | Action: Start the Conversation
Talking about suicide saves lives. One conversation can make a difference.

If at immediate risk: Call 999 | For urgent support: Samaritans 116 123 or NHS 111

See all our latest updates here >

Non-urgent advice: You and your General Practice

You and your general practice (YYGP) has been developed to help patients understand what to expect from their general practice and how they can get the best from their GP team. The YYGP document published by NHS England can be found here.
GP Clinic location
About GP at hand
Dcotors

Our GP clinic locations

You can choose from any of our five state-of-the-art clinics, across London.

About GP at Hand

We offer fast access to NHS GPs through 24/7 video or telephone consultations and more.

Meet our team

Our specialist team includes GPs, Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Pharmacists, Nurses, Mental Health Practitioners and Physios.

Non-urgent advice: What is GP at Hand?

GP at Hand is an NHS GP practice.

We provide appointments to our registered patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can book a video or telephone appointment with any of our team of experienced clinicians, including: 

GPs
Advanced Nurse Practitioners
Nurses, Pharmacists
Mental Health Practitioners
Physiotherapists

Most issues can be dealt with without needing to visit our practice – we are the pioneers of digital-first primary care in the UK and our clinicians are highly trained and experienced with digital consultations.

For those occasions when you do need to be seen in person, you can choose from any of our state-of-the-art clinics across London. Located within easy reach of transport hubs, our clinics are purpose-designed to ensure you get the best experience and care.