Washington State requires a Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) before your child can attend school or child care. Here's every form, where to get it, and the deadlines — all cited to official Washington sources.
Last verified: September 8, 2026
Washington's primary school enrollment document is the Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS). Per WAC 246-105-030, every child entering school, preschool, or child care in Washington must provide documentation of full immunity against required diseases.
Required vaccines for school entry (K–12):
Additional requirements by age: Children in child care also need Hib and PCV vaccines. Students entering 6th grade need a Tdap booster.
Unlike many states, Washington does not require a physical exam for school entry at the state level. However, individual school districts may require or recommend a health screening or physical. Check with your child's specific school for their policy.
The Washington State Board of Health sets immunization requirements, but physical exam mandates are left to local districts. Many districts in King County, Pierce County, and Spokane County request a health screening form at kindergarten entry even though it isn't state-mandated.
(Source: WAC 246-105 — Immunization of Child Care and School Children, accessed Aug 28, 2026)
Washington recognizes medical and religious/philosophical exemptions from immunization requirements. A separate Certificate of Exemption (COE) form must be on file at the school.
Important: Since 2019, Washington no longer allows personal/philosophical exemptions for the MMR vaccine specifically (per HB 1638). Medical and religious exemptions still apply to all vaccines. For all other vaccines, personal/philosophical exemptions are still available.
(Source: doh.wa.gov — School and Child Care Immunization, accessed Aug 28, 2026)
Washington State does not require an oral health assessment for school entry. However, some districts — particularly those with school-based health centers — may offer or request dental screenings at kindergarten entry. The Washington Dental Service Foundation provides free screening programs in some areas.
The CIS must be on file before your child attends their first day. Schools are required to exclude students who don't have a complete CIS or COE on file. Washington law does allow a grace period for students transferring mid-year: they have 30 school days to provide documentation.
Students entering 6th grade must have proof of a Tdap booster (administered on or after their 10th birthday). If your child's last DTaP dose was at age 4 or 5, they'll need this booster before middle school starts.
If your child is behind on doses but on a catch-up schedule, they may attend conditionally. The school must have a plan showing the remaining doses and expected completion dates. If the schedule isn't followed, the school can exclude the child until they're current.
Washington's Immunization Information System (WAIIS) stores vaccination records for most children who received vaccines in the state. Your local health department or your child's pediatrician can access WAIIS and print an official record.
You can also request records through the Washington DOH families page, which includes a link to the WAIIS School and Child Care Immunization module. If your child was vaccinated in another state, contact that state's immunization registry — records don't automatically transfer.
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