How to Complete a Declaration of Voluntary Surrender for a UK Professional Licence

If you’ve ever held a professional licence in the UK—whether you’re a healthcare worker, solicitor, teacher, or work in another regulated profession—you may find yourself in a situation where you want, or need, to give up that licence voluntarily. This is called a Declaration of Voluntary Surrender.

But what exactly does that mean? And how do you go about it?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know in simple language. We’ll explain what voluntary surrender is, why someone might do it, and how you can complete the process the right way. So whether you’re stepping away from a career, taking a break, or responding to an ongoing investigation, we’ve got you covered.

What Is a Voluntary Surrender of a Licence?

Let’s start with the basics. Surrendering your licence voluntarily means you’re choosing to give up your professional registration or authorisation to practise in your field.

Think of it like putting your driving licence through the shredder—on purpose. It doesn’t mean you’re admitting fault, but it might mean you’re stepping away from your profession, temporarily or permanently. And just like returning a rental car, this has to be done officially and properly.

Why Would Someone Choose to Surrender Their Licence?

There are actually quite a few reasons people choose this route. Every situation is different, but here are some common examples:

• Retirement – You’re done working and ready to enjoy your free time.
• Career Change – You’ve decided to pursue a new path and no longer need the licence.
• Personal Reasons – Illness, family care, or moving abroad might make it hard to continue practising.
• Regulatory Investigation – In some cases, professionals may choose to surrender their licence if there’s an investigation into their conduct or performance.

It’s important to note: surrendering a licence while being investigated doesn’t automatically make the investigation go away. Regulators may still proceed depending on the circumstances.

What Is the Declaration of Voluntary Surrender Form?

To make your surrender official, you’ll need to fill out a specific form called the Declaration of Voluntary Surrender. This form is published by many UK regulators, and you can find the government version online here.

This form is typically used when someone no longer wants to hold or maintain their professional licence. Once submitted and accepted, it means you’re no longer authorised to legally practise your profession in the UK.

Before You Fill It Out: Things to Consider

Before signing any official form, you should think carefully. Ask yourself:

• Is this the right time? Could your situation change in the future where having your licence would be helpful?
• Do you understand the consequences? Giving up your licence may have long-term effects, especially if you want to re-register later on.
• Can you undo it? Some regulators make re-registration difficult. You might need to meet new qualifications or complete assessments.
• Is there an investigation ongoing? If so, it’s best to speak with a legal or regulatory adviser before proceeding.

Have doubts? It might be worth speaking with a professional association rep or legal adviser before sending the form off.

How to Complete the Declaration of Voluntary Surrender Form

Let’s walk through the process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to fill out the declaration.

Step 1: Download the Right Form

Head to the official government website where the form is available: Download the Declaration of Voluntary Surrender form.

Each profession might have a slightly different version, so make sure you’re using the correct form for your regulatory body (like GMC for doctors, NMC for nurses, etc.).

Step 2: Fill in Your Details

You’ll need to provide:

• Your full name
• Registration number or licence ID
• Your profession (e.g. Dentist, Social Worker, Solicitor)
• Reason for surrender (though this may be optional depending on the regulator)

Be honest. The details you provide ensure the regulator processes your request accurately.

Step 3: Make the Declaration

Here’s where you officially declare that you want to surrender your licence. This includes:

• A statement confirming that you are surrendering the licence voluntarily
• Acceptance that you will no longer be able to practise in your professional capacity
• An understanding that surrendering does not prevent regulatory action from continuing or starting

It’s kind of like formally saying, “I’m stepping away, and I get what that means.”

Step 4: Sign and Date the Form

No surprises here—but don’t forget this step! Unsigned forms won’t be processed.

Step 5: Submitting the Form

Once you’ve completed and signed the form, send it to the correct department of your professional regulator. The form or your regulator’s website will usually have submission instructions—either mail it in or email a scanned copy.

Don’t know where to send it? Contact your regulator’s customer service team. They’ll point you in the right direction.

What Happens After You Submit It?

Once your form is received and processed:

• Your name will typically be removed from the public register.
• You’ll lose the legal right to practise your profession under that licence.
• If a regulator accepts your surrender during an investigation, the investigation might still go on or a record of it may remain.

Some regulators will send you a confirmation notice. If you don’t hear back, follow up within a couple of weeks to make sure it’s gone through.

Can You Reapply Later?

Reapplying after surrendering a professional licence can be tricky—but not impossible.

Think of it like leaving a gym membership. Coming back later might involve fees, paperwork, or a new health check.

Different regulators have different re-registration rules. Some may require:

• Training refreshers
• Competency assessments
• Character and reference checks
• Paying a fee

In cases where you surrendered your licence while under investigation, reapplying might be more complicated.

Always check with your regulator if you’re thinking about returning to the profession down the road.

Quick Tips Before You Submit

Here are a few friendly reminders:

• Keep a copy of your signed form for your records.
• Follow up a few weeks after submission if you haven’t received confirmation.
• Make sure your contact details are current in case the regulator needs more info.

Conclusion: Think It Through — But Don’t Stress

Giving up your professional licence is a big deal—but sometimes, it’s the right call. Whether you’re retiring, pivoting to a new career, or just need time away, completing the Declaration of Voluntary Surrender is a formal and respectful way to close a chapter of your professional life.

Hopefully, this guide has helped explain the process in a clear way. Remember, take your time, ask questions, and if necessary, seek professional advice before making your final decision.

Ready to start the process? Grab the official form and read more details here:

Read More: Declaration of Voluntary Surrender form (UK Government)