Missouri - teens for vaccines

Can minors receive vaccinations in Missouri without parental consent?

Minors in Missouri currently cannot consent to vaccinations, unless they are (i) married; or (ii) parent of a child or (iii) 16 or 17 self-supporting and living apart with expressed/implied parental consent (Source: MO St. §§431.065 & 431.061(3), MO St. §§431.065.1 & 431.061(2), MO St. 431.056).

Missouri also allows a "relative caregiver" of a minor child to consent to vaccines, as provided for under section 431.058 if:

(1) The parent has delegated in writing the parent's authority to consent to such medical treatment or educational services; or

(2) After reasonable efforts have been made to obtain the consent of the parent for the medical treatment or educational services, the consent of the parent cannot be obtained.

However, the consent of a relative caregiver shall be superseded by any contravening decision of the parent, provided the decision does not threaten the life, health, or safety of the child.

Call your county health department and let them know about your situation.

We recommend our guide to convincing vaccine-hesitant parents and sharing personal stories of teens getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

How to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Missouri?

Call 877-435-8411 or find vaccine clinics https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/map/. We can help you if needed.

Find your county health department address and phone number

Got questions on the COVID-19 vaccine? Need to convince parents?

Q & A with doctors on why the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for teens

Our guide to convincing vaccine-hesitant parents

Personal stories of teens getting the COVID-19 vaccine

Are you caught-up on your routine vaccinations?

Vaccinations every teen must know about - Tdap, HPV, Men-ACWY, Men-B, and Flu

**Legal Disclaimer: Information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. Medical and/or legal decisions must be made only in consultation with a professional.