Return to practice

Frequently asked questions

• I hold a UK qualification, what do I need to do?

  If you hold a UK qualification and were previously on the HCPC Register, you need to apply through their readmission route. 

  Please visit the HCPC website for more information on how to apply for readmission, including: 

  • the return to practice requirement for different periods out of practice 
  • the price of readmission to the register 
  • details on how long the process will take 
  • Links to the readmission application forms

• I qualified outside of the UK, how do I join the register?

  If you completed your professional training outside of the UK and have never been registered with the HCPC before, you need to apply via their international route. 

  For more information and to check if you are eligiblie for registration, please see here. 

• I was registered via the CPSM or HPC, what should I do?

  If you were previously registered via the CPSM or HPC (now known as the HCPC), you need to contact the HCPC to check your eligibility for the readmission route. This is important because: 

  • if you have been out of practice for less than two years, you may be able to join the HCPC register immediately. 
  • if you have been out of practice for more than two years, you may need to update your skills and knowledge. 

  Learn more about the return to practice requirements here. 

• I have been out of practice for a long time, do I need to update my skills?

  If you have been out of practice for between 2 - 5 years, you will need to undertake a minimum of 30 days of skills and knowledge updating. 

  For more than 5 years out of practice, you must spend a minimum of 60 days updating your professional knowledge and skills. 

  To learn more, please see here. 

• I have been working in a related field, do I need to still update my skills?

  If you have been off the HCPC register but have been working in a related role, eg, PACS manager, systems specialist, you may be able to register without undertaking a period of updating skills and knowledge.

  Contact the registrations department at the HCPC to discuss your options:

  • [email protected]
  • [email protected]
  • +44 (0)300 500 4472 

• I have been working overseas, do I need to update my skills?

  If you hold a UK qualification but have been practicing overseas, you can apply for readmission without undertaking a period of updating skills and knowledge. 

  Contact the registrations department at the HCPC to learn more:

  • [email protected]
  • [email protected]
  • +44 (0)300 500 4472 

• I have more questions, who can I contact?

  Please contact our Professional Officers Sue Johnson and Spencer Goodman if you have any questions / want to talk through your individual circumstances. 

  To book an appointment, please email [email protected] or use our contact us form.