Fit notes and medical reports
Fit notes are free. Reports for insurers, employers and the DVLA usually carry a fee.
Fit notes
A fit note (form Med 3) is issued after seven days of sickness absence. Before that, your employer can accept self-certification.
Ask at reception, or book a telephone appointment if the clinician has not already seen you for this episode. Fit notes can be issued for a period you have already been off work, and can say that you may work with adjustments.
We cannot backdate a fit note beyond the point where a clinician can reasonably say you were unfit, so ask at the time rather than weeks later.
Special Rules medical evidence
If the patient is terminally ill, the SR1 is the form used for a Special Rules claim. It is free and has its own turnaround. Read about SR1 requests.
Letters and reports
| Document | Charge | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| Fit note (Med 3) | Free | 2 working days |
| SR1 (Special Rules) | Free | 2 working days |
| Travel cancellation letter | £25 | 5 working days |
| Insurance report (short) | from £95 | 10 working days |
| DVLA medical | DWP/DVLA fee | By appointment |
Full fee scale: fees for non-NHS work.
How to ask
Write to reception with the document you need, the dates, and the address to send it to. Fees are payable in advance for private work.
Page last reviewed 1 November 2026. Next review 2026-14. If you spot something out of date, tell reception.