NHS England » Apply for a licence as an independent provider

The guidance contained on this page relates to independent providers only. You should read the Licensing application guidance: for independent providers before starting the online application form.

Online application

There are two stages to the online application process:

Enter your CQC provider ID number and confirm your provider’s:

If you provide commissioner requested services, you will need to supply additional information at this stage.

Our licensing team will then send you a PIN and passcode.

Once you have received your passcode and PIN, enter these and your CQC provider ID to authenticate your account.

You can then set up a username and password to access the whole application form.

You will need to complete and submit the application form, using the Licensing application guidance: for independent providers to help you.

You will normally get a decision on your application within 20 working days of submitting it, unless queries or concerns are raised.

You can save time by applying for your CQC registration and your NHS provider licence through a single application form.

The streamlined process is only for organisations applying as a new service provider for both the registration and licence.

Do not use this route if you are:

You can find guidance on the joint application process and an application form on the CQC website.

There is currently no fee for applying for or maintaining an NHS provider licence.

If you hold a licence, you can log on to the licensing portal to:

For enquiries relating to the licence application process, please contact our licensing team at NHSI.Licensing@nhs.net.