How to get a sick note online from a licensed provider

Whether you’re feeling unwell, experiencing mental health challenges, or navigating travel or quarantine requirements, obtaining a valid sick note through a licensed provider online has never been more accessible.

This guide explains what types of sick notes are available, when an in-person visit is still required, how the process works, and which telehealth platforms are most reliable. You’ll also learn how to avoid common mistakes and ensure your documentation meets employer or school standards. Need a sick note now? Connect with a doctor online today! 

Need a doctor’s note without going to a clinic?

Klarity Health connects you with licensed providers who can determine if a sick note is medically appropriate for school, work, or other needs.

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Can you get a sick note online?

Yes, in the United States, licensed providers—including MDs, DOs, nurse practitioners (NPs), and physician assistants (PAs)—can legally issue sick notes after a telehealth consultation. As long as the provider evaluates your condition and determines that time off is medically appropriate, the sick note is considered valid.

You’ll typically receive the note via a secure portal or email, and it will include the provider’s signature, credentials, and consultation date—making it suitable for submission to employers, schools, or other institutions.

What types of sick notes are acceptable online

Common types of sick notes available through telehealth include:

• Work leave notes – For missed shifts or remote work accommodations
  
• School absence notes – For students or parents needing to excuse a child’s absence
  
• Mental health or stress leave notes – Widely accepted by workplaces for burnout, anxiety, and related issues
  
• Travel or quarantine clearance notes – For travel-related health requirements or returning to work/school after illness
  
• FMLA/disability-related documentation – May require additional steps, including specialist evaluation or in-person care
  

While most everyday needs can be addressed via telehealth, documentation related to FMLA or long-term disability may involve more complex processes and offline evaluations.

When you can’t get a sick note online

There are situations where a virtual consultation isn’t appropriate or sufficient:

• Physical exams – Such as listening to heart or lung sounds or evaluating injuries
  
• Diagnostic testing – Including COVID-19 swabs, strep tests, or lab work
  
• Controlled substance prescriptions – As of December 2024, many Schedule II–V medications may be prescribed via telehealth if the provider has a special DEA registration and complies with federal and state laws. This policy is in effect through December 31, 2025.

Step-by-step process to get your sick note online

1. Choose a telehealth platform

Look for a service that uses licensed U.S. providers, supports your state, and follows HIPAA-compliant video or phone systems. Reputable platforms include Klarity Health, PlushCare, Doctor on Demand, and others.

2. Create an account

You’ll need to provide your name, date of birth, and state of residence. Most platforms will ask you to complete a brief intake form covering your symptoms, medical history, and insurance details.

3. Prepare for your visit

Before your appointment:

• List your symptoms, including onset and severity
  
• Have your current medications and allergies available
  
• Know your deadlines for submitting the sick note
  
• Make sure your device is ready for a video call in a quiet, private space
  
• Have a valid photo ID ready for verification

4. Attend the virtual consultation

During your video visit, the provider will:

• Confirm your identity and obtain consent
  
• Ask about your symptoms, health history, and risk factors
  
• Conduct a visual assessment (you may be asked to take your own temperature or describe physical findings)
  
• Determine whether a sick note is clinically appropriate

5. Request the sick note

If approved, ask the provider to issue a sick note. Most notes are delivered via a secure portal or email shortly after the visit—usually within minutes.

6. Review the note

Make sure it includes:

• The provider’s full name, credentials, and license number
  
• Date of your consultation
  
• Your full name
  
• A brief, non-diagnostic summary (e.g., “was seen for a medical condition”)
  
• Recommended duration of leave
  
• Provider’s signature or e-signature
  
• Contact details for verification

7. Submit the note

Submit the PDF to your employer, school, or other requesting party. Avoid making handwritten changes—these can invalidate the note. Keep a copy for your records.

8. Follow up If necessary

If symptoms persist or your leave needs to be extended, schedule a follow-up visit.
For FMLA or controlled substances, you may also need an in-person exam or referral.

Need a note for school or work?

Request a virtual consult with our providers to assess your symptoms. If medically appropriate, you’ll receive a legitimate doctor’s note.

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Top online platforms to get a sick note online

*Prices approximate; check the platform for insurance allowances and exact rates.

What to include in a sick note template

A valid note should contain:

• Provider’s name, credentials, and license number
  
• Date of consultation
  
• Patient’s name
  
• Diagnosis or symptoms in general terms (for privacy)
  
• Recommended leave (e.g., 3 days)
  
• Provider’s signature or e-signature
  
• Provider’s contact information and clinic stamp or letterhead
  

Do employers actually verify online sick notes?

Yes—employers often:

• Confirm the provider’s licensing or credentials
  
• Call the clinic or telehealth platform when in doubt
  
• Perform HR audits on suspicious or repeated usage
  

Overly generic, undetailed notes or notes not backed by consultation can trigger verification flags.

What to avoid when getting an online sick note

• Don’t purchase fake or templated notes—these can be traced, are illegal, and easily detected.
  
• Avoid altering dates or provider details—this invalidates the note.
  
• Don’t request backdated notes—reputable platforms refuse.
  
• Don’t use services that skip any medical consultation—notes from these are likely fraudulent and rejected.
  

Key takeaway

Getting a legitimate sick note online in the U.S. is easy, safe, and valid—if done through a licensed telehealth provider. Choose platforms that verify your identity, require video consults, and provide fully signed notes. Avoid sketchy services that skip evaluations or offer backdated papers. Protect your health and stay honest with official documentation.

Need a sick note? Connect with a licensed doctor online now

Connect with a licensed U.S. provider online—no waiting rooms, no delays. Whether you’re sick, managing stress, or need documentation for school or work, our telehealth platform helps you get a legitimate doctor’s note in minutes. Just book a video visit, get evaluated, and receive a signed note by secure email or app. All notes include required details and are compliant with employer and school policies.Visit Klarity Health today to get started.