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Immunizations

Immunizations

Subject to the exceptions in §38.001(c), a student is required to be fully immunized against certain diseases. However, under §38.001 a student may be provisionally admitted if the student has begun the required immunizations and continues to receive the necessary immunizations as rapidly as medically feasible. Except as provided by §38.001(c), a student who is not fully immunized and has not begun the required immunizations may not attend school.

Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §97.62 describes the conditions under which children and students can seek exemptions from immunization requirements in Texas elementary and secondary schools, and institutions of higher education. Exclusions from compliance are allowable on an individual basis for medical contraindications, active duty with the armed forces of the United States, and reasons of conscience, including a religious belief.

NOTE: These exemptions only pertain to students in Texas who seek exemptions from school-required immunizations. These exemptions are not for employees seeking exemptions from employer-mandated immunizations. 

Information on Texas Minimum State Vaccine Requirements for Students Grades K-12 is available here.

For further information regarding immunization requirements, immunization exemptions, and immunization documentation, please contact DSHS.

To order an affidavit of exemption from immunizations for reasons of conscience online please click here.