The Recognition of Professional Qualifications and Implementation of International Recognition Agreements (Amendment) Regulations 2023

Aptitude tests and adaptation periods U.K.

9.—(1) A regulator may require an applicant to take an aptitude test, standardised or otherwise, or to complete an adaptation period or to undertake both where—

(a) there exists a substantial difference between the applicant’s professional qualifications and the essential knowledge or skills required to practise the regulated profession; or

(b) the regulated profession comprises one or more professional activities that cover substantially different matters from those covered by the applicant’s professional qualifications.

(2) A regulator must consider whether any requirement to take an aptitude test or to complete an adaptation period or to undertake both is proportionate to the difference sought to be addressed.

(3) If requested to do so by an applicant, a regulator must, to the extent possible, provide its reasons in writing for requiring the applicant to take an aptitude test or to complete an adaptation period or to undertake both.

(4) Where a regulator requires applicants to undertake an aptitude test, the regulator must schedule tests with reasonable frequency and at least once a year.

Commencement Information

I1 Reg. 9 in force at 1.12.2023, see reg. 1