What is a CTP Certificate of Fitness?
The NSW CTP Certificate of Fitness is the medical document used after a motor vehicle accident to describe the person's injuries, planned treatment and fitness for normal activities, including work. It supports the insurer's understanding of the claim and ongoing recovery needs.
This document is for motor crash injuries. A workplace injury uses a different document called the Certificate of Capacity.
Who completes the first certificate?
SIRA states that the first Certificate of Fitness must be completed by a registered medical practitioner during a consultation. This will often be the injured person's regular GP or another treating doctor who is prepared to assess the motor accident injuries and remain involved where follow-up care is required.
Read how to find the CTP treating-doctor pathway in Sydney and NSW
What should I take to the doctor?
- The date and a short description of the motor accident
- Hospital, imaging and treatment information currently available
- A list of physical and psychological symptoms
- Examples of activities at home, in the community or at work that are difficult
- Your occupation, usual duties and hours if work capacity is affected
- Your CTP insurer and claim number if already available
What should the appointment cover?
Explain the complete effect of the injury rather than only the strongest symptom. Discuss pain, mobility, sleep, concentration, distress, driving, self-care, household tasks and work where relevant. The doctor decides the diagnosis, appropriate treatment and the medical information recorded on the certificate.
Keeping the certificate current
SIRA advises the injured person to submit the initial certificate with the claim and provide updated certificates during recovery. The practitioner should record when reassessment is required. If circumstances change before the review date, contact the treating practice or insurer about the appropriate next step.
Read SIRA's official Certificate of Fitness guidance
How COH Rehab fits into the pathway
COH Rehab is a mobile rehabilitation provider, not a medical clinic. We can clarify the treating-doctor pathway and, once referred and approved, coordinate rehabilitation around practical recovery goals. Medical assessment and certification remain the responsibility of the treating practitioner.
If you need help finding a GP for a motor accident assessment, ask COH Rehab about an independent GP connection. The medical practice confirms appointment availability and billing.
See what happens during the NSW CTP rehabilitation process
Frequently asked questions
Who completes the first CTP Certificate of Fitness?
SIRA states that the first Certificate of Fitness must be completed by a registered medical practitioner during a consultation. This is commonly the person’s treating GP.
What does the Certificate of Fitness record?
It records the motor accident injury, planned treatment and how the injury affects normal activities, including work. It also identifies the medical practitioner completing the certificate.
How long can a Certificate of Fitness cover?
SIRA advises that a Certificate of Fitness cannot be issued for more than 28 days unless the practitioner provides specific reasons.
Is a CTP doctor a separate medical specialty?
No. CTP doctor is a common search phrase. The first certificate can be completed by a registered medical practitioner who assesses the motor accident injuries and is willing to provide appropriate follow-up care.