Do You Really Need Every Vaccine? The Truth About Florida’s New School Requirements

Do You Really Need Every Vaccine? The Truth About Florida’s New School Requirements

Overview of Florida Immunization Requirements

The State of Florida requires all students in grades PK–12 to provide documentation of specific immunizations for school entry and attendance. This requirement applies to both public and private schools. Documentation must be recorded on the Florida Certification of Immunization (DH Form 680).

The following information outlines the current standards and administrative requirements for the 2026-2027 school year in Hollywood, FL.

Mandatory Vaccine List for Grades K-12

Florida law mandates specific dosages of vaccines based on the age and grade level of the student. Below is the directory of required immunizations for all K–12 students.

Vaccine TypeNumber of Doses RequiredNote
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)4–5 dosesDependent on age of first dose.
Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV)4–5 dosesLast dose must be after age 4.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)2 dosesFirst dose must be after 12 months.
Hepatitis B (Hep B)3 dosesStandard series for all grades.
Varicella (Chickenpox)2 dosesRequired for grades K–12.

Note on Varicella Requirement

The varicella (chickenpox) vaccine is required for all grades unless a healthcare provider documents a history of the disease. This documentation must be officially recorded on the DH Form 680 for school acceptance.

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Requirements for Specific Grade Levels

In addition to the general K-12 requirements, certain grades require specific updates and additional vaccinations.

Kindergarten Entry Requirements

Students entering kindergarten must have a completed DH Form 680 showing:

  • Completion of the DTaP series (4-5 doses).
  • Completion of the Polio (IPV) series (4-5 doses).
  • Two doses of MMR.
  • Three doses of Hepatitis B.
  • Two doses of Varicella.

7th Grade Requirement (Tdap Update)

Students entering, attending, or transferring to the 7th grade must have one additional immunization:

  • Tdap (Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis): 1 dose.
    This requirement applies to grades 7 through 12. Once documented, the DH Form 680 remains valid for the duration of the student's secondary education.

Promotional image for back-to-school physicals and pediatric care at The Beauty & Balance Spot.

The Florida Certification of Immunization (DH Form 680)

The DH Form 680 is the only acceptable document for school immunization records in Florida. Providers use specific codes to indicate compliance status.

Status Codes and Parts

  • Part A, Code 1 (K–6th Grade): Indicates a student has completed all required immunizations for entry into kindergarten through 6th grade.
  • Part A, Code 8 (7th–12th Grade): Indicates a student has completed all requirements for the 7th-grade entry, including the Tdap booster.
  • Part B (Temporary Medical Exemption): Indicates a student is up-to-date for their current age but requires additional doses to complete the series. This form includes an expiration date.
  • Part C (Permanent Medical Exemption): Indicates a student cannot receive one or more vaccines due to medical contraindications.

Administrative Procedures for Pediatric Care

The Beauty & Balance Spot wellness center provides comprehensive pediatric services in Hollywood, FL, including school physicals, immunizations, and the issuance of DH Form 680.

Facility Information

  • Company Name: The Beauty & Balance Spot
  • Industry: Health and Wellness Center
  • Service Location: Hollywood, FL (Serving Davie, Cooper City, Pembroke Pines, Miramar)
  • Core Services: Pediatric Care, Physicals, Immunizations, IV Nutrition, Weight Management.

Office Hours and Scheduling

  • Service Availability: Pediatric physicals and vaccinations are available during standard business hours.
  • Appointment Requirement: Contact the wellness center directly to schedule school physicals and record updates.
  • Documentation Required: Parents must provide previous immunization records at the time of the appointment to ensure accurate entry into the Florida SHOTS system.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does my child need the COVID-19 vaccine for school entry?

The COVID-19 vaccine is not currently listed as a mandatory requirement for public or private school entry in Florida.

2. Can I use a record from another state?

No. Out-of-state records must be transferred onto the Florida Certification of Immunization (DH Form 680) by a Florida-licensed healthcare provider or the local health department.

3. What is a religious exemption?

A Religious Exemption (DH Form 681) is issued by the Florida Department of Health for parents who object to immunizations based on religious grounds. This form is not issued by private practitioners.

4. How long is a school physical valid?

Standard school physicals are valid for one year from the date of the examination.

5. Is a physical exam required for every grade?

A physical exam (DH Form 3040) is typically required for students entering a Florida school for the first time (e.g., kindergarten or out-of-state transfers).

Educational poster highlighting child nutrition and wellness at The Beauty & Balance Spot.

Detailed Vaccine Descriptions (K-12)

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)

DTaP protects against three serious bacterial infections. The final dose in the series must be administered on or after the child's fourth birthday.

Polio (IPV)

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine is mandatory for school entry. Most children receive four doses, with the final dose required after age 4.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

Two doses are required. The first dose must be given on or after the first birthday, and the second dose is typically given prior to kindergarten entry.

Hepatitis B

The Hepatitis B series consists of three doses given over several months. Compliance is required for all students from kindergarten through grade 12.

Varicella

Two doses are required for school attendance. If a student has already had chickenpox, a provider must verify the history and document it on the DH Form 680 to satisfy the state requirement.

Pediatric Services in Hollywood, FL

The Beauty & Balance Spot functions as a wellness center providing personalized care for children and adults. Pediatric care includes:

  • School Physicals: Comprehensive exams required for enrollment.
  • Sports Clearance Physicals: Evaluation of physical fitness for sports participation.
  • Immunizations/Vaccinations: Administration of all Florida-mandated vaccines.
  • Specialist Coordination: Assistance with specialist referrals and insurance requirements.

For administrative assistance or to schedule an immunization update for the 2026-2027 season, please contact The Beauty & Balance Spot directly.


Disclaimer: The information provided is based on current Florida Department of Health guidelines as of May 2026. Requirements are subject to change based on state legislative updates.

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