North Carolina Childcare Licensing

North Carolina Childcare Immunization Requirements (2026)

Children enrolled in a licensed North Carolina childcare center must show proof of age-appropriate immunization. North Carolina requires documentation for 7 vaccine series, with limited medical and legally permitted exemptions.

Licensing Agency

North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education →

Last updated: April 2026

Researched by the TotReady Research Team

North Carolina Immunization Requirements: The Specifics

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate DTaP immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate Polio immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate MMR immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate Varicella immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate Hib immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate Hepatitis B immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina childcare licensing requires age-appropriate Hepatitis A immunization for enrolled children (subject to documented medical or legally permitted exemptions).

North Carolina Immunization Requirements Checklist

  • DTaP
  • Polio
  • MMR
  • Varicella
  • Hib
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis A

Go Deeper

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North Carolina Immunization Requirements: Frequently Asked Questions

Which vaccines does North Carolina require for childcare enrollment?

North Carolina requires age-appropriate immunization records for: DTaP, Polio, MMR, Varicella, Hib, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A.

Are immunization exemptions allowed in North Carolina?

North Carolina permits documented medical exemptions and, where state law allows, certain non-medical exemptions. Confirm the current exemption rules with the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education.

When must immunization records be on file in North Carolina?

North Carolina requires up-to-date immunization documentation at enrollment, with records kept current in each child's file thereafter.

North Carolina childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published North Carolina administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.