North Carolina school vaccine exemptions
North Carolina allows medical and religious exemptions. The religious exemption is a written statement from the parent; no state form or provider signature is required.
Religious exemption. A parent or guardian writes a statement that immunization conflicts with their bona fide religious beliefs and gives it to the school or childcare facility. North Carolina does not require a state form, notarization, or a health care provider’s signature. Personal or philosophical objections do not qualify.
Medical exemption. A licensed physician certifies that a vaccine is contraindicated for the child, using the state’s medical exemption form and the contraindications recognized by the North Carolina Commission for Public Health. Exemptions can be temporary or permanent.
What to ask a practice. Whether they will provide the school immunization record for a child on a partial schedule, and whether they will complete the medical exemption certification when one applies. The religious statement does not involve the practice.
Where rules change. Requirements apply at childcare, kindergarten, seventh grade, and twelfth grade. Confirm with your school or the North Carolina Immunization Branch.
Last reviewed 2026-09-10. This is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. Official North Carolina immunization page ↗