Appraisal vs revalidation: what is the difference?
Written by Dr Sudhir Tapase, GMC appraiser · Published 3 November 2026
Doctors often use “appraisal” and “revalidation” as if they were the same thing. They are linked but separate.
- Appraisal is an annual discussion between you and a trained appraiser about your whole practice.
- Revalidation is the GMC’s decision, usually every five years, on whether you keep your licence to practise.
Appraisal feeds into revalidation. It is not the same thing.
The GMC says every licensed doctor must revalidate to show they are fit to practise and maintain their licence to work in the UK. It supports doctors to reflect on their practice, helps them improve care and gives patients confidence that doctors are up to date.
Every year you meet an appraiser who has been trained to carry out appraisals for revalidation, to review and discuss your work. The GMC says you must have an annual appraisal that:
- has Good medical practice as its focus;
- covers all your UK medical practice; and
- is with an appropriately appointed and trained appraiser.
You collect and reflect on six types of supporting information, and agree a plan for the next year. See our revalidation checklist.
If you have a designated body, your responsible officer (RO) watches that you are engaging with the process. Usually every five years, the RO tells the GMC whether you are up to date and fit to practise. Based on that, the GMC decides whether you keep your licence. Your appraisals are an important part of the evidence behind the RO’s recommendation.
Doctors without a connection to an RO or suitable person follow a similar process, with annual appraisals. They must also give information directly to the GMC through an annual return and sit a five-yearly assessment. See how to revalidate without a responsible officer.
| You | Your appraiser | Your RO | The GMC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appraisal | Collect information, reflect, attend | Run the meeting, check your information | Makes sure you have access to appraisal | |
| Revalidation | Engage with the process | Recommends, usually every five years | Decides on your licence |
The GMC says that if you don’t take part in revalidation, it may take steps to withdraw your licence.
The GMC says revalidation isn’t the route for raising concerns about a doctor’s practice, which should be addressed as soon as they arise.
GMC, What is revalidation?; Revalidation requirements for doctors.