Here’s what Texas law says about your employer asking for a doctor’s note
You’re feeling under the weather at work and decide to visit your doctor.
After getting the all-clear and heading back to work, your boss asks you for a doctor’s note. You mention that you were unaware of needing a doctor’s note, to which your boss says they are legally allowed to ask employees for one.
Are Texas employers legally allowed to ask employees for a doctor’s note? Here’s what to know.
Can Texas employers ask for a doctor’s note?
Yes, Texas employers can ask for a doctor’s note, but can’t ask for further medical information.
For example, an employer can ask for a doctor’s note or other information as it relates to sick leave, workers’ compensation, wellness programs or health insurance, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
However, an employer can not ask the health care provider for more information about a patient without their authorization.
Do Texas employers ask for doctor’s notes?
It depends on the employer.
The Texas Employer Guidebook (created by the Texas Workforce Commission) recommends employer’s “try to achieve a sensible balance.”
“Most companies do not require an actual doctor’s note for simple one- or two-day absences for things like 24-hour “bugs,” but do require them if the employee claims to have seen a doctor,” the guidebook states.
Furthermore, the guidebook says employers have the right to ask an employee to explain the reason for an absence.
If the reason is something that is normally documentable, like a doctor’s visit, the employer has the right to require employee documentation. However, that’s as much as they’re allowed to ask.
“There is no need to get specific, though, about confidential or private matters, so do not insist on specific medical information or similar things,” the guidebook states.
This story was originally published June 16, 2025 at 12:28 PM.
