Return-to-Work Documentation
Get a Fit to Work Certificate Online
Returning to work after illness or injury? Some employers require medical clearance before you resume duties. DoctorCert connects you with a UK-registered doctor who can review your fitness to return, usually same day.
When You Need One
When Do You Need a Fit to Work Certificate?
Not all employers require fit-to-work certificates, but many do, especially for absences longer than 7 days. If you're unsure, check with your HR department first.
Best for return-to-work clearance
This page owns the return-to-work intent: fit to work certificate, fitness for work certificate, and medical clearance after illness or injury. If you need evidence for the absence itself, use the sick note for work page instead.
Returning After Extended Absence
You’ve been off work for several days or more and your employer wants written confirmation that you’re well enough to return.
Pre-Employment Health Clearance
A new employer has asked for evidence of general medical fitness before you start your role.
Company Policy Requirement
Your organisation’s HR policy requires a doctor’s clearance after any absence, regardless of duration.
Our Process
How the Review Works
Describe Your Situation
Tell us about your recent illness or injury, the dates you were absent, and your current recovery status. Takes about 5 minutes.
Doctor Assessment
A UK-registered doctor reviews your submission and determines whether issuing a fit-to-work certificate is clinically appropriate.
Receive Your Certificate
If appropriate, your signed certificate is emailed as a PDF, usually same day during business hours.
Key Differences
Fit to Work Certificate vs Fit Note
Fit to Work Certificate
- Confirms you are medically cleared to return to work
- Issued after a doctor reviews your recovery
- Used by employees returning after illness/injury
- Can be issued privately or by an NHS GP
Fit Note (NHS Med3)
- •Issued by an NHS GP during illness
- •Can say you are “not fit for work” or “may be fit for work”
- •Used to authorise absence, not to confirm return
- •Used for sickness absence evidence after more than 7 days
In simple terms: a fit note covers your absence while you're ill. A fit-to-work certificate confirms you're well enough to go back. They serve opposite purposes. Many employers accept private certificates from UK-registered doctors for routine situations, but HR policies can vary.
Important Information
What This Service Covers (and What It Doesn't)
Suitable
- Return to office/desk-based work after common illness
- General fitness clearance for standard employment
- Short-term absence return documentation
- Company policy compliance
Not Suitable
- ✗High-risk occupational roles (e.g., HGV driving, aviation, offshore work)
- ✗Long-term disability assessments
- ✗Statutory Sick Pay disputes: contact your NHS GP
- ✗Legal/tribunal proceedings
Our doctors assess routine return-to-work situations. For specialist occupational health assessments or roles with specific regulatory requirements, please contact a specialist provider or your employer's occupational health team.
Common Questions
Fit to Work Certificate: Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer insist on a fit-to-work certificate?
Employers can ask for medical evidence before allowing you to return, particularly after extended absence. Check your company’s absence policy or speak to HR.
Is this the same as an occupational health assessment?
No. This is a general medical fitness review, not a formal occupational health assessment. For roles with specific physical or safety requirements, a specialist assessment may be needed.
Is this for sickness absence or returning to work?
A fit-to-work certificate is for return-to-work clearance after illness or injury. If you need evidence explaining why you were absent, a sick note for work is usually the more relevant page.
Can I get a fit-to-work certificate for a physical injury?
Yes, our doctors can review recovery from common injuries. However, for serious injuries or safety-critical roles, a specialist assessment may be more appropriate.
How far back can dates be covered?
We can consider recent return-to-work situations. The doctor will assess based on the details you provide.
What if the doctor isn’t satisfied I’m fit to return?
If the reviewing doctor has concerns, they will not issue the certificate and you will receive a full refund.
Will my employer accept a private certificate?
Private certificates from UK-registered doctors are widely accepted for routine return-to-work situations. Check with your HR department if you’re unsure.
Simple, Transparent Pricing
Per certificate
- UK-registered doctor review
- Signed PDF by email, usually same day
- Full refund if not issued
- No appointment needed