How to Find Your NHS Number: 4 Free Ways (2026 Guide)
Your NHS number is on most letters the NHS sends you, in the NHS App, and on file at your GP surgery. Here is how to find it, and when you actually need it.
Updated · 5 min read
Try it with your own numbersNHS Take-Home Pay CalculatorThe quickest way to find your NHS number is to log in to the NHS App and open your profile, where it appears under your name. You can also find it on most letters the NHS has sent you, or ask your GP surgery. All of these are free, and you do not need your NHS number to get NHS care.
What is an NHS number?
Your NHS number is a unique 10-digit number, usually written in three groups, such as 485 777 3456. It helps health and care staff match you to the right health record.
You get one soon after birth, or the first time you receive NHS care. If you have never used the NHS, you are given one when you register with a GP surgery, and it appears in your registration letter. It stays with you for life, except in a few cases such as adoption or gender reassignment.
How to find your NHS number
There are four free ways to find it.
1. In the NHS App
If you already use the NHS App, this is the fastest way:
- Log in to the NHS App.
- Go to Profile from the home screen.
- Your NHS number is shown under your name and date of birth.
You can also see it by logging in to your account on the NHS website. If you manage someone else's health services in the app, it does not show their NHS number, so use one of the other methods for them. New users need to set up an NHS login first, which involves proving who you are with photo ID.
2. On letters and documents from the NHS
Your NHS number is printed on most paperwork the NHS sends you. Look on:
- appointment letters from a hospital or clinic
- referral letters
- test results
- prescriptions
- your GP registration letter
It is usually near the top, next to your name and date of birth.
3. From your GP surgery
You can ask your GP surgery by phone, online or at reception. To protect your privacy, they may ask you to prove who you are first, for example with a passport or driving licence.
4. For a baby or child
Babies are given an NHS number soon after birth. Check your child's personal child health record (the "red book") or letters about their checks and vaccinations, or ask your GP surgery.
If you cannot find it anywhere
If you have no NHS letters, do not use the NHS App and are not registered with a GP, the answer is to register with a GP surgery near where you live. In England, registering is free, and the NHS says you do not need ID, proof of address or an NHS number to do it. If you have had NHS care before, the surgery will find your existing number. If not, you will be given a new one, and it will be in your registration letter.
What about the online "Find your NHS number" tool?
The NHS website used to have an online service that sent your number by email, text or letter. It now says this service is no longer available.
Be careful with other websites offering to find your NHS number, especially if they ask for a fee. Finding it is always free, and you should never give bank details to get it.
Do you need your NHS number?
Usually not. The NHS website is clear that you do not need it to use NHS services: staff can find your record from your name, date of birth and address. It is still handy when registering with a new GP or dentist, filling in hospital forms, or contacting a hospital about an appointment. If you are refused care because you do not know it, you can make a complaint.
Scotland and Northern Ireland use different numbers
| Nation | Number | Format |
|---|---|---|
| England, Wales, Isle of Man | NHS number | 10 digits |
| Scotland | Community Health Index (CHI) number | 10 digits, starting with your date of birth (DDMMYY) |
| Northern Ireland | Health and Care (H&C) number | 10 digits |
In both nations the number appears on health service letters, and your GP practice can tell you what it is.
NHS number vs National Insurance number
These are often confused, especially by people starting their first NHS job. Your NHS number is for your health records and is 10 digits with no letters. Your National Insurance number is for tax and benefits, mixes letters and numbers (such as QQ 12 34 56 C) and comes from HMRC. NHS payroll uses your National Insurance number, which is on your payslip and P60.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find my NHS number online?
Yes, through the NHS App or your NHS website account, where it is shown in your profile.
Is my NHS number on my payslip?
No. NHS payslips show your National Insurance number and an employee or assignment number, not your NHS number. Our guide to reading your NHS payslip explains every line.
I have lost my medical card. Do I need a new one?
No. Medical cards with NHS numbers are no longer sent out in England, and you do not need to replace a lost one. Your number is still on your record and can be found in the ways above.
Starting a new NHS job?
If you have just started working in the NHS, check your first payslip carefully too. Our take-home pay calculator shows what you should receive each month after tax, National Insurance and pension. If your deductions look wrong, our tax codes guide explains what your code means.
Sources
Checked on Wednesday 14 October 2026:
This guide explains the general rules for staff in England using 2026/27 figures. It is not financial advice. Your employer, payslip or NHS Pensions statement has the final word on your own pay.