Vermont school immunization requirements are set under 18 V.S.A. §1121, administered by the Vermont Department of Health. Vermont eliminated the philosophical exemption in 2016 (Act 157), leaving only medical and religious exemptions. Whether your child is enrolling in Burlington School District, South Burlington, Essex, or Rutland, here is every required form and where to get records.
Last verified: September 4, 2026
Under 18 V.S.A. §1121, no child may attend a Vermont public or independent school without documented evidence of required immunizations or an approved exemption on file. The Vermont Department of Health maintains the Vermont Immunization Registry (IMR) where providers report administered doses.
Where to get your child's record: Your child's pediatrician can access the Vermont Immunization Registry (IMR) and print a current certificate. You can also contact the Vermont Department of Health Immunization Program or your local district office for record lookups.
Source: 18 V.S.A. §1121; Vermont Department of Health — Immunization Program, accessed September 4, 2026
Vermont requires a health examination for students entering school. The Vermont Department of Health provides the Vermont School Health Examination Form, which must be completed by a licensed healthcare provider. Many districts require this within 12 months of enrollment — check with your specific school's office for their timeline.
The exam covers general health status, growth measurements, vision and hearing screening, and any conditions the school nurse should know about. Schedule this alongside your child's annual well-child visit to avoid a separate appointment.
Source: Vermont Department of Health, accessed September 4, 2026
Full immunization certificate and health examination form required. Burlington School District, South Burlington, and Essex-Westford process enrollment through their central offices. Complete all immunization documentation before the first day.
Tdap booster required for students entering 7th grade. Schedule with your child's provider in spring so the updated Vermont Immunization Registry record is ready before fall registration.
Students transferring from other states must meet Vermont's immunization requirements. Bring all prior immunization documentation to your first Vermont provider visit for registry entry. Out-of-state certificates alone are not equivalent to a Vermont Immunization Registry-verified record.
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Vermont recognizes two types of exemptions from school immunization requirements under 18 V.S.A. §1121:
Vermont eliminated the philosophical exemption in 2016 under Act 157. For official exemption forms, contact the Vermont Department of Health Immunization Program or your child's school.
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