Immunizations

There are three conditions for exemption for Texas students:

1. If a health care provider determines that it is not safe for them to get a certain vaccine

2. If they are in the United States military

3. If they have a religious or personal belief that goes against getting immunized

Exemptions for Medical Reasons

Getting vaccines is a safe way to protect yourself from harmful diseases. In Texas, we follow the ACIP-recommended vaccination schedule. Some people may have medical reasons for not getting certain vaccines.

Only a doctor (MD/DO) can write a note explaining why someone can't get vaccinated. Schools and childcare centers must accept it. The signed note is only valid for one year unless your doctor states that you have a life-long condition.

Requesting an Exemption for Reasons of Conscience

A child's parent, a legal guardian, or a student 18 years or older has the option to download and print the blank immunization exemption affidavit form. 

To receive an exemption, students and parents or legal guardians, on behalf of their child, may download an affidavit form using the methods outlined below.

First, download and print the blank Affidavit Exemption from School or Child-Care Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience form, Stock No. F11-11755.

DSHS suggests you review the How to Complete and File Your Immunization Exemption Affidavit, Stock No. 11-12953 and the Benefits and Risks of Vaccination, Stock No. 11-11846.

To request that DSHS mail you the form, submit a request through the United States Postal Service (USPS), commercial carrier, fax, online, or in person. DSHS does not accept phone and email requests. DSHS uses the USPS to mail requested forms with an estimated delivery within three weeks. 

Use the Request for Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience form, Stock No. EF11-13140. The request must include the following information:

• Name of parent, legal guardian, or self (for the mailing label).

• Complete USPS mailing address (for the mailing label). 

• Telephone number (to allow DSHS to contact the requestor if the request is not deliverable and returned to DSHS).

• Number of requested affidavit forms. 

NOTE: DSHS does not retain this information. DSHS only uses it for the mailing label or to include in the documents sent to the requestor.

You can request an affidavit through one of these methods:

• Via website:

  • Affidavit Request for Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience
     

• By mail:

  • Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Section
    Mail Code 1946
    P.O. Box 149347
    Austin, Texas 78714-9347
     

• Fax:

  • (512) 776-7544
     

• In person:

  • Texas Department of State Health Services      
    1100 West 49th Street      
    Austin, Texas 78756

NOTE: You must notarize all affidavits before submitting them to the school or child-care facility. Do not modify them in any way before submitting them to the school or child-care facility.