How Long Does It Take to Register with the CQC?

What’s the Usual Timeline for CQC Registration?


From start to finish, most CQC registrations take 8 to 16 weeks. However, the exact timeline depends on how complete and accurate your application is β€” and how responsive you are to follow-up requests.

Breakdown of the CQC Registration Process


  1. Set up your organisation – Choose your legal entity (sole trader, limited company, etc.)
  2. Prepare documents – Policies, Statement of Purpose, business plan, governance documents
  3. Complete the CQC online application – Submit through the provider portal
  4. CQC review period – They’ll assess your documents and may request clarification
  5. Fit Person Interview – A telephone or video interview with the provider and/or Registered Manager
  6. Final decision – You’ll receive written confirmation and registration certificate if successful

Factors That Slow Down the Process


  • Missing or vague information in your Statement of Purpose
  • Policies that are generic or poorly tailored to your service
  • Unclear roles between the provider and Registered Manager
  • Delays responding to CQC’s requests for clarification
  • Issues with DBS checks or ID verification

How to Speed Things Up


βœ… Submit a complete application with strong, tailored documents βœ… Appoint your Registered Manager early and ensure they’re ready for interview βœ… Use editable, CQC-aligned templates to avoid rework βœ… Check your DBS and ID documents are up to date βœ… Be responsive to emails and portal messages

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Updated for Procurement Act 2023 β€’ CQC-aligned β€’ BASE-aligned (where relevant)


Written by Impact Guru, editorial oversight by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd β€” bringing extensive experience in health and social care tenders, commissioning and strategy.

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