Texas Immunization Exemptions

Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §97.62 covers the conditions under which students can request an exemption from getting immunizations at their school or college. There are three conditions for exemption:

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

NOTE: Please note that these rules only apply to students in Texas and not to employees who need an exemption from immunizations required by their employer.

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.

Facility Attendance

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

To get an exemption from vaccinations for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs, the child's parent, legal guardian, or a student 18 years or older must complete several steps. A completed, signed, and notarized affidavit in a form must be provided by the department to the school or childcare facility. The affidavit should state that the child's parent, legal guardian, or a student 18 years or older is refusing vaccinations because of their conscience, including religious beliefs.

Submitting an Exemption for Reasons of Conscience

Give the form to the school or childcare center within 90 days after it's signed and stamped by a notary. The paper is good for two years after the notary date. A child or student not immunized because of their conscience or religion might not be allowed to go to school if there is an official emergency or epidemic.

How to Request an Affidavit

This affidavit is used to request exclusion from required school immunizations for reasons of conscience, including religious belief. A parent or legal guardian may request this affidavit on behalf of their child or student using the forms and methods outlined below. The request must include the following information:

• Full name of child or student
• Child's or student's date of birth (month/day/year)
• Complete mailing address, including telephone number
• Number of requested affidavit forms (not to exceed five)

Requesting an Affidavit

Request an affidavit via the Immunization Section Affidavit Request website. Please use the Microsoft Edge web browser when submitting a vaccine exemption request online.

If requesting an Affidavit by Mail, send a written request for an affidavit through the United States Postal Service (USPS).

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

NOTE: Affidavits must be notarized. Do not modify in any way before submission to the school or childcare facility.

Requesting an Affidavit by Fax

Fax written requests for affidavits to 512-776-7544.

Requesting an Affidavit in Person

Requests affidavits in person at:

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

NOTE: No requests will be filled at the time of hand delivery. All affidavit forms will be mailed to you via USPS.