Immunization Requirements

  • The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is partnering with the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AL-AAP) to encourage parents/guardians to keep children's vaccinations up to date. Keeping children vaccinated is an important step toward ensuring their long-term health.

    Due to the national and statewide COVID-19 pandemic, many Alabama pediatric and family providers have experienced a drastic decrease in scheduled vaccination visits. Infants, toddlers, and teens across the state have experienced over a 50% decline in the number of vaccines administered from March 1 to May 1, compared to 2019 rates. This has disproportionately impacted immunization coverage rates among individuals aged 0-18, placing them at an increased risk of exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases including pertussis, measles, mumps and others.

    To avoid prolonged gaps in vaccination, we are encouraigng parents/guardians to work with their providers to catch up on all childhood vaccines missed during the pandemic. Please visit your pediatrician to ensure your child's vaccines are up to date.

    Immunization Requirements for Attending School in the State of Alabama

    Alabama Schools must ensure that each pupil presents a valid Certificate of Immunization as required by the Code of Alabama, 16-30-4. A child’s entry and attendance in school is conditioned upon the presentation of a current and valid Alabama Certificate of Immunization unless a recognized exception applies. Exceptions include Medical and Religious Exemptions, and exemptions for those deemed Homeless under Federal Law. Students may register/enroll, but must not attend school until the requirement is met.

    • Medical Exemption: Issued by the child’s Primary Care Physician or Specialty Physician 

    • Religious Exemption: Issued by the Alabama Department of Public Health. Contact them for further information

    How to obtain an Alabama Certificate of Immunization 


    1. IF YOUR IMMUNIZATION STATUS IS UP TO DATE: According to Alabama State requirements, meaning no immunization is required at present: A VHCS school nurse can transfer a valid Certificate of Immunization from anywhere within the United States to Alabama. If your child's immunization records are located outside the United States, a branch location of the Jefferson County Public Health Department can transfer your immunization dates onto a State of Alabama Certificate of Immunization form.

    2. IF YOUR IMMUNIZATION STATUS IS NOT UP TO DATE:
 You may choose to visit a Department of Public Health location (details below). You may also choose to visit a local Walk-In Health Clinic or contact a physician’s office for appointment. Fees are determined by the facility. Immunization availability may vary. Contact them for more information. 


    Jefferson County Department of Health Clinics

    Phone: 205.930.1450 or 205.588.5234

    Morris Health Center
    586 Morris Majestic Road
    Morris, AL 35116
    205.933.4242

    Eastern Health Center
    601 West Boulevard Roebuck
    Birmingham, AL 35206
    205.591.5180

    Central Health Center
    1400 Sixth Avenue South
    Birmingham, AL 35233
    205.930.1135

    Western Health Center
    631 Bessemer Super Highway
    Midfield, AL 35228
    205.715.6121