Washington requires a Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) before your child can start school. Here's what Washington requires, how to get those records, and how to make the whole handoff work from the first week.
Last verified: September 8, 2026
Per WAC 246-105-030, every child entering school or child care in Washington must have a completed Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) on file. This is Washington's official form documenting all required vaccinations. If you don't have a completed CIS when you enroll, Washington allows conditional attendance for up to 30 school days while you complete documentation.
Washington's RCW 28A.225.330 requires your child's former school to transfer records to the new school upon request. The new Washington school initiates the transfer when you enroll. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days. Keep copies of everything — your own copies avoid delays if the electronic transfer is slow.
Source: RCW 28A.225.330 — Transfer of student records, accessed August 29, 2026
WAIIS (Washington Immunization Information System) is the state's immunization registry. If your child received any vaccines in Washington previously, those records are likely in WAIIS. Contact your local health jurisdiction (county health department) to request a printout, or ask your new Washington pediatrician to check WAIIS during your first visit.
For doses given in your previous state, ask your former pediatrician for a complete signed immunization record. A signed letter on office letterhead or a printed immunization summary is typically accepted by Washington schools while the CIS is being finalized by a new Washington provider.
Your previous state's immunization registry may also have records — each state maintains its own system. Contact your former state's health department for a registry printout before you move.
Source: Washington DOH — School and Child Care Immunization, accessed August 29, 2026
When you establish care with a new Washington pediatrician, bring:
Your new Washington provider will enter out-of-state vaccine doses into WAIIS and complete the CIS form. Schedule this appointment early — the CIS is often the last piece schools wait for.
Unlike many states, Washington does not require a separate physical exam for school entry. The primary enrollment health document is the CIS (immunization record). However, the state does require a health history form for child care enrollment, and many school districts ask for a health history during registration.
If your child has a chronic condition, allergies, or takes medications, prepare a written care plan for the school nurse. Washington schools must accommodate health needs under RCW 28A.210.320 (nursing services for students with health conditions).
Source: RCW 28A.210.320 — Students with life-threatening health conditions, accessed August 29, 2026
Request a complete medical record summary from every current provider — pediatrician, specialists, dentist. Ask specifically for a signed immunization history you can hand to a new provider. Check your current state's immunization registry for a printout.
Enroll in the new school — they'll request records from your former district (RCW 28A.225.330). If immunization records are incomplete, ask about conditional attendance (up to 30 school days). Bring whatever immunization documentation you have.
Your new Washington pediatrician will complete the Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) based on your child's records and any doses they administer. Schedule this appointment early — the CIS is the one form every Washington school needs.
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