UK Press Cards
Compare the main UK press card schemes: eligibility, cost, annual renewal and NPCC recognition status — all in one place.
Listings are illustrative, current at last review. Fees and eligibility criteria change; always check the issuing body's website before applying.
Last reviewed: Next review due:
The UK has no statutory press card: there is no single government-issued credential that grants journalists automatic rights of access. Instead, a small number of professional bodies issue cards that are recognised by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) under the UK Press Card Authority (UKPCA) umbrella scheme. Showing a recognised card at a police cordon does not guarantee access, but it identifies you as a credentialed professional and may assist in negotiating presence at public-interest scenes.
The table below compares the five most widely held UK press cards. For full, up-to-date eligibility criteria and application instructions, always consult the issuing body's website directly.
Press Card Comparison
| Card | Issuing Body | Eligibility | Approx. Cost | Renewal | NPCC Recognised |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NUJ Press Card | National Union of Journalists (NUJ) | Paid NUJ membership; must earn the majority of income from journalism | Included with NUJ membership (from approx. £15/month for new members) | Annual; membership must remain current | Yes — UKPCA recognised |
| UKPCA Card | UK Press Card Authority | Journalists employed or contracted by verified news organisations; must be UKPCA-member outlet staff | Issued via employer; employer pays scheme fee | Annual via employer | Yes — core UKPCA scheme |
| CIoJ Card | Chartered Institute of Journalists | CIoJ members; proof of journalism income required | Included with CIoJ membership (approx. £150–£180/year) | Annual with membership renewal | Yes — UKPCA recognised |
| Professional Freelance Card | UK Press Card Authority | Freelancers not covered by employer-issued UKPCA card; evidence of journalism earnings required | Approx. £60–£80/year (check UKPCA site for current fee) | Annual; resubmit evidence of activity | Yes — UKPCA scheme |
| NPPA (UK) Card | National Press Photographers' Association (UK chapter) | Working press photographers and photojournalists | Included with NPPA membership | Annual | Not independently listed by NPCC; check current UKPCA status |
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Verify current costs with each issuing body.
How we keep this current
We review this directory every six months against the issuing bodies' websites and any NPCC communications about UKPCA recognition. If you spot an error or a change in fees, please use our contact form to let us know.