The standalone PLVE (Performer list Validation by Experience) doesn’t exist anymore. It was changed in April 2023. Today, eligible overseas dentists follow the NHS England validation process, which includes a Structured Conversation and, where required, a period of supported practice before they receive their NHS Performer Number.
What Was PLVE?
Performers List Validation by Experience (PLVE) was a pathway for overseas dentists who had GDC registration but had not completed Dental Foundation Training (DFT) in the UK.
Its purpose was to assess whether a dentist had the clinical knowledge, professional skills and experience needed to provide NHS dental care safely.
Under the previous system, dentists worked under the supervision of an approved trainer while completing workplace-based assessments and demonstrating competence in NHS practice.
Once the required standards were met, they could join the NHS Dental Performers List and work independently as NHS dentists in England.
Is PLVE Still Available?
The short answer is no.
The standalone PLVE scheme was replaced by NHS England on 1 April 2023.
Instead of applying for PLVE, overseas dentists now apply directly to join the NHS Dental Performers List. During the application process, NHS England assesses whether additional support is needed before a dentist can practise independently.
This means there is:
- No separate PLVE application
- No PLVE application fee
- No formal PLVE training programme
Instead, applicants are assessed individually based on their qualifications, clinical experience and professional background.
Major Changes from the Old PLVE Process
The table below highlights the main differences between the previous PLVE scheme and the current NHS validation process.
| Previous PLVE | Current NHS Process |
| Separate PLVE application | Apply directly to the NHS Dental Performers List |
| Application fee required | No separate PLVE application fee |
| Standard validation programme for most applicants | Individual assessment based on experience |
| Formal PLVE training practice approval | Separate practice approval is no longer required |
| Mandatory supervised PLVE programme | Support provided only where NHS England considers it necessary |
| Longer processing times in many cases | Assessment process is generally quicker |
Understanding the Structured Conversation
One of the biggest changes introduced after the end of PLVE is the Structured Conversation.
This is not a clinical examination or a pass-or-fail test. Instead, it is a professional discussion used by NHS England to understand your experience and determine whether you need additional support before joining the NHS Dental Performers List.
During the conversation, dental advisers may discuss:
- Your professional background
- Previous clinical experience
- Knowledge of NHS dentistry
- Clinical governance
- Patient safety
- Communication skills
- Professional responsibilities
The outcome helps NHS England decide whether you can enter the Performers List directly or whether an Educational and Clinical Support Plan (ECSP) would be beneficial.
Step-by-Step Process for Overseas Dentists
Although the previous PLVE programme no longer exists, the overall journey to working as an NHS dentist remains straightforward.
Step 1: Obtain GDC Registration
Before you can practise dentistry in the UK, you must obtain full GDC registration. Depending on your qualifications, this may involve passing the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE), the Licence in Dental Surgery (LDS) or another recognised registration route.
Step 2: Secure an NHS Position
The next step is to find an NHS dental practice willing to employ you. Many practices actively recruit overseas dentists and provide support during the Performers List application process.
Step 3: Apply to the NHS Dental Performers List
Once you have secured a position, you can submit your application to join the NHS Dental Performers List.
As part of the application, NHS England reviews your qualifications, clinical experience and supporting documents.
Step 4: Attend the Mandatory Structured Conversation
Applicants who have not completed UK Dental Foundation Training must participate in a Structured Conversation. This formal professional discussion helps NHS England evaluate your clinical background and identify if you require any localised transition support.
Step 5: Complete Any Required Support
If NHS England identifies areas where additional development would be beneficial, you may be asked to complete an Educational and Clinical Support Plan (ECSP).
The level of support varies between applicants and depends on individual experience rather than a fixed programme.
Step 6: Receive Your NHS Performer Number
Once you have successfully completed the required stages, you can join the NHS Dental Performers List and receive your NHS Performer Number, allowing you to provide NHS dental services independently.
Final Thoughts
Although the standalone PLVE scheme no longer exists, the term continues to be widely used by overseas dentists searching for information about working in NHS dentistry.
Today, the focus has shifted to the NHS Dental Performers List application process. Instead of completing a separate PLVE programme, applicants are assessed individually based on their qualifications and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLVE still available?
No. The standalone PLVE scheme ended in April 2023. Overseas dentists now follow the NHS England validation process when applying to join the NHS Dental Performers List.
What replaced PLVE?
The previous PLVE pathway has been replaced by an individual assessment process that may include a Structured Conversation and, where appropriate, an Educational and Clinical Support Plan (ECSP).
Is there a PLVE application fee?
No. The separate PLVE application and its associated fee no longer exist.
Do I need recent clinical experience?
You do not need to have worked for three months right before you apply, which was a strict rule under the old PLVE system. Instead, NHS England looks at your whole clinical experience. However, you must still give at least one clinical reference from a dentist who has supervised your work for three months or more.
Is the Structured Conversation a pass-or-fail assessment?
No. The Structured Conversation is designed to understand your clinical background and identify any support you may need before joining the NHS Dental Performers List.
