> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.phbhealth.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# PCN verification

> Verify your PCN licence so you can dispense.

Dispensing on PHB requires three things, each checked separately: a PCN-verified pharmacist, their link to the pharmacy, and a PCN-verified pharmacy premises. A role at a facility, however senior, never replaces a licence.

## Before you start

You need:

* The role `pharmacist` at a pharmacy on PHB.
* Your PCN licence number and its expiry date.

## Steps

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open onboarding">
    Go to `/pharmacy/onboarding`. If PHB stops a dispense because you are not verified, the message **Only a PCN-verified pharmacist can dispense.** links here with **Verify your PCN licence to dispense →**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter your licence">
    Enter your name, PCN licence number and expiry date, then submit.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Wait for the check">
    PHB checks the council registry. When it passes, your licence shows as verified.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## The pharmacy premises

* **Independent pharmacies:** PHB checks the premises licence by hand when it reviews the application.
* **Hospital pharmacies:** ask your hospital's owner or admin, or PHB, about the premises verification for your pharmacy.

<Note>
  A verified PCN licence does not let you prescribe. Prescribing needs MDCN.
</Note>

## Common problems

| What you see | What to do |
| - | - |
| **Manual review · in progress** | PHB is checking your licence by hand. Wait for it. |
| **That license number is already registered.** | Contact PHB. |
| **Sign in first** | Sign in at `/pharmacy/login`, then come back. |


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