Check if you have an exemption from paying NHS costs

An NHS exemption certificate helps you to pay for your NHS costs, such as prescriptions or dental treatment.

What you can check

If you live in England, you can use this service to check if your NHS exemption:

• is still valid or will expire soon
• entitles you to free NHS prescriptions
• entitles you to free NHS dental check-ups and treatment

Exemptions you can check

• prescription prepayment certificate (PPC)
• medical exemption certificate
• maternity exemption certificate
• HC2 certificate (full help through the Low Income Scheme)
• Tax Credit exemption certificate

Exemptions you cannot currently check

• prescription exemption certificate issued by the Ministry of Defence
• HC3 certificate (partial help through the Low Income Scheme)
• hormone replacement therapy prescription prepayment certificate (HRT PPC)

This result can only be used as proof today. You'll need to check this service each time you want to use it as proof.

When you do not need to check

You're automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions and NHS dental treatment if you are:

• under 16
• 16, 17 or 18 and in full time education
• getting certain benefits or you're named on the claim as a partner or child.