- Health
- Parenting
How to opt out of vaccines
Public and private school-age children in Florida are required to be vaccinated against certain childhood diseases. The only exceptions for vaccinations are for health reasons or religious objections:
- You can request an exemption for religious reasons by filling out a Form DH 681 (Religious Exemption from Immunization).
- You’ll need a licensed physician to certify Form DH 680 (Permanent Medical Exemption for Immunization), including valid clinical reasoning or evidence for a medical exemption.
If you need to get your child up to date with their vaccines so they can attend school or child care, you can request a Temporary Medical Exemption (TME). TMEs expire the day after your child is due for their next vaccination. These are often reserved for transfer students and children who are homeless, and usually last up to 30 school days.
Vaccination exemptions for personal or philosophical reasons are not permitted under Florida law. Learn more about the laws governing childhood vaccinations on the Florida Legislature’s website.
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Related resources
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- Health
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Florida SHOTS
State Health Online Tracking System – free statewide, centralized immunization registry that helps parents, health-care providers and schools track immunization records
877-888-7468 Website Email -
- Health
- Other
Florida Department of Health – Palm Beach County
School immunizations requirements
561-840-4500 Website Email -
- Health
- Parenting
Florida Vaccines for Children Program
Provides free vaccines for children up to age 18 who qualify for eligibility through the Florida Department of Health
877-888-7468 Website Email -
- Health
- Parenting
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Vaccine and immunization information, including schedules, a tracking system, lists, fact sheets, books
800-232-4636 Website