According to Iowa law, parents must be permitted to submit a religious or medical exemption for their child to attend school and/or daycare centers if their child is not fully up-to-date on their vaccinations. There are many reasons, including religious and medical, that may cause parents to decide not to follow the recommended CDC childhood vaccination schedule. 

Iowa Code, Chapter 139a.8(6) and Iowa Administrative Code, 641-7.7(139) outlines the immunization requirement for Iowa children attending licensed childcare centers and/or elementary or secondary schools. This code states students shall submit one of the following: Iowa Department of Public Health Certificate of Immunization, Certificate of Immunization Exemption – Religious Exemption, or Certificate of Immunization Exemption – Medical Exemption.