Immunizations

Texas school and child-care facility immunization requirements are determined by the state legislature and set by the Texas Department of State Health Services, in conjunction with the Texas Education Agency.

Maintaining adequate immunization rates in schools is critical to preventing disease outbreaks and ensuring the health of Texas children.

Immunization Requirements for grades K through 12: 2026-2027 School Year

Immunization Requirements for Early Childhood Programs: 2025-2026 School Year

Immunization Exemptions:

Medical Exemption - the law allows physicians to write a statement stating that the vaccine(s) required would be medically harmful or injurious to the health and well-being of the child. The written statement by the physician must be submitted to the school nurse. Unless it is written in the statement that a lifelong condition exists, the exemption statement is valid for only one year from the date signed by the physician. 

Conscientious Exemption - The law allows parents/guardians to choose an exemption from immunization requirements for reasons of conscience, including a religious belief. The completed and returned form from the Texas DSHS must be submitted to the school nurse in order for the student to be admitted. The school will only accept the original, official affidavit forms developed and issued by the Texas DSS. The affidavit is valid for two years.

Click here for Online Request  for  Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience.