What happens after I apply for an operating licence?
When the Gambling Commission receives your completed operating
licence application and licence fee, you will get confirmation of
receipt by letter within seven working days. We will give you
an account number and we will start reviewing the information you
have provided as soon as your application is recorded as
received.
Reviewing your application
We need to be sure you are suitable to hold an operating
licence, and that you are likely to uphold the licensing
objectives. The questions on the operating licence application form
help us work out your overall approach and intentions for your
business. We look into your:
- identity
- background, and that of your partners and major
shareholders
- level of experience in the industry
- financial relationships
- business processes and procedures, present and planned
- management and corporate structures.
We aim to process your applications as efficiently as possible,
however this depends on whether you have given us all the
supporting information we need. If any information is missing, this
may delay your application.
We have the power to grant or reject all or part of your licence
application.
If we grant your application, we will then issue you with your
licence, which we may attach extra conditions to.
What do I do when I get my licence?
Keep your licence in a safe place. You need to
be able to produce your licence on demand within a specified
period, if a constable or enforcement officer asks to see it. A
charge of £25 will be applied if you require a hard copy of the
licence. No charge is made for electronic copies.
Your annual fee is due 30 days after we have
issued your licence, and every year after that.
Your licence will last indefinitely
unless:
- it is revoked after a licence review or
failure to pay fees
- it is suspended
- you choose to surrender it
- it lapses, for example due to bankruptcy or
death
- it is forfeit, for example if a court orders
it when you are convicted of a relevant offence.
You have rejected or refused my application, what
can I do?
If we reject or refuse your application, we
will let you know the reasons why and the steps you can take to
appeal if you are unhappy with our decision.
If, following this, we make a decision to
refuse your application, and you are not satisfied, you can appeal
to First-tier
Tribunal.
Page last reviewed:
February 2013