Massachusetts requires both a physical examination certificate under M.G.L. c.76, §15 and immunization records under 105 CMR 220.000 before your child can attend school. Massachusetts is one of a handful of states requiring a physician-signed physical exam at specific grade intervals — not just immunization records. Here's what Massachusetts requires, how to get those records, and how to make the handoff work from the first week.
Last verified: September 8, 2026
Massachusetts has two separate health requirements for school enrollment — both governed by different regulations:
When you enroll at a new Massachusetts school, the receiving district requests records from your former school. Interstate transfers can take weeks. Keep complete copies of everything — your child's immunization history, the most recent physical exam results, and any specialist records. Your own copies prevent enrollment delays while the official transfer processes.
Source: M.G.L. c.76, §15; Massachusetts DPH — School Health Requirements, accessed Aug 31, 2026
Under M.G.L. c.76, §15, Massachusetts requires a physical examination certificate at these grade intervals:
The exam must be performed by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant and conducted within 13 months of school entry. If your child had a recent well-child exam in your former state, your new Massachusetts provider may incorporate those results — but they'll need to document the findings on a Massachusetts-accepted form. Bring your most recent exam summary to the appointment.
Most Massachusetts school districts provide or accept a standardized physical exam form — contact the school's health office for the specific form they use.
Source: M.G.L. c.76, §15; Massachusetts DPH, accessed Aug 31, 2026
MIIS (Massachusetts Immunization Information System) is the state's immunization registry. If your child received any vaccines in Massachusetts previously, those doses may be in MIIS. Your new Massachusetts pediatrician can access MIIS directly and print your child's record.
For doses given in your previous state, bring a signed immunization record from your former pediatrician. Out-of-state records do not automatically transfer to MIIS. Your new provider will enter prior documented doses into MIIS at the first visit.
Massachusetts required vaccines (105 CMR 220.000):
Note: Massachusetts does not require Hepatitis A for school entry (unlike Maryland or Virginia). However, always verify the current year's requirements with the Massachusetts DPH Immunization Program.
Source: Massachusetts DPH — Immunization Requirements for School Children; 105 CMR 220.000, accessed Aug 31, 2026
When you establish care with a new Massachusetts pediatrician, bring:
Your new Massachusetts provider will enter out-of-state vaccine doses into MIIS, complete the physical exam certificate if your child is at a required grade interval, and handle any Massachusetts-specific requirements. Schedule this appointment as soon as possible after your move — Massachusetts pediatricians are booked 4–6 weeks out during summer.
Request complete medical records from every provider — pediatrician, specialists, dentist. Ask for a signed immunization history listing every vaccine and date. Check your current state's immunization registry for a printout. Bring your most recent well-child exam results — you'll need them for Massachusetts's physical exam requirement.
Enroll in the new school — they'll request records from your former district. Bring whatever immunization documentation and health records you have. Ask about the school's timeline for receiving the physical exam certificate if your child is at a required grade (K, 4, 7, or 10).
Your new Massachusetts pediatrician will enter doses into MIIS, complete the physical exam certificate if required for your child's grade, and handle any Massachusetts-specific vaccine requirements. Book early — Massachusetts practices book out 4–6 weeks during summer and back-to-school season.
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