eGDCRegistration for dentists with a recognised qualification from overseas
This page provides information on registration for the following dentists:
- dentists who have never been registered in the UK and who wish to apply for registration with the GDC and
- who have a dental qualification awarded outside the EEA (including the UK) and
- where the qualification is recognised for registration by the GDC.
Is my qualification recognised?
Your qualification must be listed as a recognised qualification for you to register with the GDC. If your qualification is not listed, you will need to pass the overseas registration exam (ORE) before you will be able to register.
Find out if your qualification is recognised
How do I apply?
If your qualification is recognised, you can apply for registration online via eGDC by selecting 'Apply to register'. Please note, you will be asked to complete the route to registration questionnaire.
Following completion of the online application process, you will be issued with a personalised application form to download, print, sign and submit along with your supporting documents.
Please refer to our English language controls, for types of evidence we are likely to accept.
Please review our health self-certification guidance.
Please send your complete application and supporting documentation to:
The Registration Team - new applications
General Dental Council
1 Colmore Square
Birmingham
B4 6AJ
Reasonable adjustments
Reasonable adjustments are available to applicants who might find using the online eGDC route to registration difficult. Please get in touch to request a reasonable adjustment.
What happens next?
You will only be registered once we have received your completed application form, and relevant supporting documents. We will contact you if there are any problems with your application form so please ensure you provide correct contact details where you can definitely be reached.
An original registration certificate will be sent to your address upon successful inclusion to the register. Your full name, qualification and your GDC registration number will appear in the register.
Once registered, you must have professional indemnity to practise in the UK. Please remember that it is illegal to practise dentistry until you have registered and been issued with a GDC registration number.
How long will it take?
The GDC has a statutory maximum of 12 weeks from receipt of a completed application to register a dentist. Please ensure you have completed the form correctly and that you have included all requested documents, as incomplete forms will take longer to process.
You will be sent an automated email acknowledging the receipt of your application within 10-15 days of receiving your application.
You will then be contacted by email within four weeks once your application has been processed, either to request payment if your application is considered complete, or to request further information in order to consider your application as complete.