An evergreen guide for UK patients · Last reviewed June 2026
In England, most adults pay a flat NHS prescription charge for each item dispensed. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, NHS prescriptions are free for eligible patients. This guide explains the current charge structure in England, who is automatically exempt, and how to claim free prescriptions or reduce costs with a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC).
In England, the standard NHS prescription charge is set annually by the Department of Health and Social Care. The charge applies per item, not per prescription, so a prescription with three different items will incur three charges. The current rate is published on NHS.uk — always check there for the latest figure as it changes each April.
You do not pay for NHS prescriptions in England if you are: aged under 16, aged 16 to 18 and in full-time education, aged 60 or over, pregnant or have had a baby in the past 12 months (with a valid maternity exemption certificate), have a specified medical condition (with a valid medical exemption certificate), have a continuing physical disability that prevents you going out without help, hold a valid HC2 certificate, or are receiving certain benefits including Income Support, Universal Credit (in some cases), or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
If you are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months, ask your midwife or GP to complete an FW8 application — you will receive a maternity exemption certificate (MatEx) valid for one year. For long-term medical conditions including diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and several others, ask your GP for an FP92A application to receive a medical exemption certificate (MedEx).
If you do not qualify for free prescriptions but need more than a few items per year, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate can save you money. A 3-month PPC and a 12-month PPC are both available — the 12-month version is cheaper if you spread the cost (you can also pay in 10 monthly instalments). The PPC covers unlimited NHS prescription items in England during its validity period.
NHS prescriptions are free at the point of dispensing for eligible patients in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Charges only apply if you live in England, or if you fall under specific cross-border rules. Patients in those nations should ask their local pharmacy if they have any questions about eligibility.