The two-year window between PLAB 1 and GMC registration
There are two separate two-year rules, both counted from the exam date (the pass date). You must PASS PLAB 2 within two years of passing PLAB 1. Then your GMC registration should be APPROVED within two years of your PLAB 2 exam date. If it isn't, the GMC asks for additional evidence of your knowledge and skills — it doesn't say you automatically have to retake the exam.
Who this applies to
- Doctors planning their timeline from PLAB 1 pass through to GMC registration.
- Doctors whose PLAB 2 sitting has been delayed by travel, health or visa issues.
Key requirements
| PLAB 1 to PLAB 2 | Pass PLAB 2 within two years of PLAB 1 |
|---|---|
| PLAB 2 to registration | Registration approved within two years of PLAB 2 |
| After two years from PLAB 2 | GMC asks for additional evidence of knowledge and skills |
Steps
1. Log both deadlines
Record both dates as soon as you have them.
2. Front-load parallel steps
Start EPIC verification and prepare identity documents in parallel with PLAB 2 study.
3. Apply as soon as you pass PLAB 2
Approval takes time, so apply within months — not close to two years after PLAB 2.
Common failure points
- Sitting PLAB 2 late and then delaying the GMC application while waiting for a job.
- Counting from the result date instead of the exam date.
- Treating two years after PLAB 2 as an application deadline — it's when registration should be approved.
Official sources
Every fact above should be confirmed against the controlling source before you act on it.