2026-09-28 · 4 min
Gym certificate in Portugal: fitness note or IPDJ exam?
Gyms, running and CrossFit ask for a fitness certificate. Federated sport asks for the IPDJ exam. When to use each.
The physical-fitness certificate is for non-federated sport: gym membership, a CrossFit box, fun runs and university sport that asks for recreational fitness. The video call takes about 15 minutes.
It does not replace the IPDJ sports medical. If you play in a federation, you are a referee, or the club asked for the official two-page form, book the IPDJ exam, not this certificate.
The doctor takes the history and assesses risk for recreational exercise. Most people need no tests beforehand. With a cardiovascular history, the doctor may ask for an ECG before issuing the certificate.
It is issued only if fitness is confirmed. The PDF is emailed, signed by a doctor registered with the Portuguese Medical Board. SNS and a family doctor are not required.
A job, a public competition or a contract needs a different document: the professional fitness certificate. Sick leave and a short absence note are different consultations too.
Frequently asked questions
Can a gym refuse an online certificate?
It is signed by a doctor with an active Medical Board licence and has the same legal standing as an in-person certificate. If the gym wants the IPDJ form, this is the wrong document.
Does CrossFit and a fun run fit here?
Yes, when the sport is not federated. Federated competition uses the IPDJ exam.
Do I need an SNS number?
No. Anyone in Portugal can be assessed, whatever their nationality.