How Long Does LPA Registration Take? Timeline Explained

How Long Does LPA Registration Take?

The current average registration time is 8-12 weeks from when the OPG receives your application. However, this can vary significantly.

Current OPG Processing Times (2026)

Scenario

Typical Timeline

Standard application (no issues)	8-10 weeks
Application with minor queries	10-14 weeks
Application with errors	12-20+ weeks
During busy periods	Up to 16 weeks

What Happens During Registration?

Week 1-2: Receipt and Initial Check

• OPG receives your application
• Basic checks for completeness
• Payment processed

Week 2-4: Detailed Review

• All sections checked for accuracy
• Signatures and dates verified
• Certificate provider details confirmed

Week 4-6: Waiting Period

• Mandatory 4-week waiting period begins
• Named people can object during this time

Week 6-10: Final Processing

• If no objections, final checks completed
• LPA registered
• Documents returned to you

Factors That Delay Registration

1. Errors in the Application

The biggest cause of delays. Common issues:

• Missing information
• Incorrect dates
• Signature problems
• Certificate provider issues

2. Objections

If someone raises concerns during the waiting period, investigation can add weeks or months.

3. OPG Workload

Processing times increase during busy periods (often after media coverage of LPA stories).

4. Payment Issues

Incorrect fees or failed payments cause delays.

How to Minimise Delays

Before Submitting

• Double-check all information
• Ensure correct signing order
• Verify certificate provider qualifies
• Include correct fee

During Registration

• Respond quickly to any OPG queries
• Keep contact details up to date
• Monitor for letters from OPG

Can You Pay to Speed It Up?

No. There's no expedited service. All applications go through the same process.

However, you can reduce delays by:

• Using an online service that checks for errors (like myLPA)
• Ensuring everything is correct first time
• Responding immediately to any queries

What If You Need the LPA Urgently?

If you have an urgent situation:

Submit the LPA as soon as possible

Contact OPG to explain the urgency

In extreme cases, apply to the Court of Protection for emergency powers

Important: The Court of Protection route is expensive (£371+) and should only be used in genuine emergencies.

Tracking Your Application

After submitting, you can:

• Call OPG: 0300 456 0300
• Use the online tracking service (if you applied online)
• Wait for postal updates

OPG will contact you if there are any issues.

When Registration is Complete

You'll receive:

• Your registered LPA documents
• A cover letter confirming registration
• Information about using the LPA

Keep these documents safe—you'll need them when the LPA is used.

Start Your LPA Today →