New York gives you just 14 days from your child's first day at daycare to show proof of immunization — the same rule that applies to schools. Plus, daycare-age children need additional vaccines (HiB and PCV) that school-age kids don't. Here's every form, who fills it out, and where to get it.
Last verified: August 26, 2026
New York State Public Health Law §2164 requires all children attending day care and pre-K to be fully vaccinated. Parents must show proof of immunization within 14 days of the first day of attendance. Children who are not up to date must receive at least the first dose of all required vaccines within that 14-day window.
Required vaccines for day care and pre-K (age-appropriate, 2026–2027):
New York Social Services Law and OCFS regulations require a health examination for every child entering licensed day care. The exam must be performed by a licensed physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.
Most licensed programs require the exam within 12 months prior to enrollment or 30 days after. The exam typically includes a physical assessment, developmental screening, and documentation of any special health needs or allergies.
Day care programs may provide their own health form, or you can use a standard form from your pediatrician. Check with your specific program for their preferred format.
(Source: NYS OCFS — Child Care Regulations; 18 NYCRR §418-1.11, accessed Aug 26, 2026)
The New York State Immunization Information System (NYSIIS) is the official vaccine registry. Your pediatrician can query it directly. In New York City, use the Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR) — parents can request a copy by calling 311.
If you've moved from another state, bring your child's previous immunization records to your new pediatrician so they can be entered into NYSIIS. This ensures the day care has a single, complete record on file.
(Source: NYS DOH — Day Cares, Schools and Post-Secondary Institutions, accessed Aug 26, 2026)
New York day camps licensed by the Department of Health follow public health law — immunization requirements apply. Overnight and sleepaway camps must also comply with PHL §2164 and may require additional health forms:
(Source: NYS DOH — Immunization Requirements, accessed Aug 26, 2026)
Licensed day cares need proof of immunization (including HiB and PCV) plus a health exam. Camps vary. Call ahead and get the exact list of required forms before scheduling the doctor visit.
Ask your pediatrician to pull your child's record from NYSIIS (or CIR in NYC). This shows exactly which doses are documented. Don't wait for the 14-day clock to start.
Bring the day care's health form. Your pediatrician can complete the physical, administer catch-up vaccines, and fill out all forms in one visit.
Turn in completed forms within 14 days of the first day. Keep copies of everything — you'll need immunization records again for school enrollment.
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Since June 2019, New York State allows only medical exemptions to immunization requirements for day care and school. Religious exemptions were removed by legislation signed June 13, 2019. A medical exemption requires a licensed physician to certify that a specific immunization is detrimental to the child's health.
Governing statute: New York State Public Health Law §2164.
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