Passing and Re-sitting PLAB Quick Summary
You must pass PLAB 1 before you can book PLAB 2, and then pass PLAB 2 within two years of your PLAB 1 test date. Each part allows four attempts; after a fourth failure you can apply for one fifth and final attempt, but only after at least 12 months of additional learning. After passing PLAB 2, your GMC registration must be approved within two years.
Can I take PLAB 2 before PLAB 1?
No. To book PLAB 2 you need an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification and a valid PLAB 1 pass. You then have two years from passing PLAB 1 to pass PLAB 2. The GMC counts your pass date as the day you sat the exam, not the day your results were issued. For the overall structure of the test, see all about the PLAB exam.
Re-sitting PLAB 1 and PLAB 2
How PLAB is marked
Neither part has a fixed pass percentage. For PLAB 1, the pass mark is set for each sitting using the Angoff method plus one standard error of measurement, and results come six weeks after the exam. For PLAB 2, examiners score three areas in every station: data gathering and technical skills, clinical management, and interpersonal skills. To pass, you must reach the overall pass mark and also pass a minimum number of stations. You receive feedback by domain and by station, which is the best guide to what to work on if you need to re-sit. The GMC no longer offers manual result checks, but formal appeals are available.
Does passing PLAB guarantee a UK job?
No. Passing PLAB lets you apply for GMC registration with a licence to practise, which must be approved within two years of passing PLAB 2. If you apply within three months of passing PLAB 2 and met the IELTS or OET minimum scores within the last three years, your PLAB 2 pass can also count as your English evidence. You then still need to find a post and a sponsored visa. Since 5 March 2026, UK graduates are prioritised for specialty training, so most international doctors start in locally employed NHS posts. Read our guide to clinical attachments and finding NHS jobs after PLAB.
How can I best prepare for PLAB?
- Study the MLA content map, which the GMC says shows what the exam covers, alongside the topics in our PLAB 1 syllabus.
- Learn to the level of a doctor starting the second year of the UK Foundation Programme, and review the Foundation Programme curriculum.
- Read the GMC's Good Medical Practice: ethics and professionalism are tested in both parts, especially in the PLAB 2 stations.
- Answer questions according to current UK best practice and guidelines, not local arrangements in your own country.
- Practise timed, scenario-based questions and use the GMC's sample questions to learn the format.
The GMC says you do not need a coaching course to pass; a structured plan and plenty of timed practice matter most. See our PLAB preparation guide. Avoid any course that claims to have real exam questions: sharing GMC exam content is misconduct and can affect your eligibility and future registration. When you are ready, see how to register for PLAB and our PLAB 1 and 2 test details.
Frequently asked questions
> How long is a PLAB 1 pass valid?
You must pass PLAB 2 within two years of passing PLAB 1. The pass date is the date you sat PLAB 1, not the date your results were issued.
> How many times can I take PLAB?
Four attempts at each part. After a fourth failure you can apply for one fifth and final attempt; the GMC does not allow attempts beyond that.
> What do I need for a fifth PLAB attempt?
At least 12 months of additional learning after your fourth failed attempt, shown by 12 months of clinical practice with structured reports from senior doctors or by a relevant postgraduate qualification, within the last two years.
> Can I ask the GMC to re-mark my PLAB 2 result?
The GMC no longer offers manual result checks because it is confident its marking is robust, but a formal appeal process is available.
> Do I need a coaching course to pass PLAB?
No. The GMC says a course is not required. If you choose one, check that it is credible, and never use a course that claims to have real exam content.
Have a question about your PLAB attempts? Contact us.
Preparing for a PLAB re-sit?
Practise with exam-style questions and detailed explanations in our PLAB Part 1 Qbank.
Explore PLAB Preparation