What Is the Tdap Vaccine?
Tdap is a combination vaccine that protects against three bacterial diseases: tetanus (lockjaw), diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis is highly contagious and can be life-threatening in infants.
Tdap is the adult formulation of the childhood DTaP vaccine. It contains a reduced dose of diphtheria and pertussis antigens, making it safe for adolescents and adults.
Tetanus
Lockjaw
A bacterial infection that causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms, including "lockjaw." Tetanus bacteria enter the body through cuts or wounds and can be fatal without treatment.
Diphtheria
Throat infection
A serious bacterial infection of the throat and airways that can cause a thick membrane to form, blocking breathing. It can also damage the heart and nerves.
Pertussis
Whooping cough
A highly contagious respiratory illness causing severe coughing fits. It is especially dangerous for infants and can be life-threatening in the first months of life.
USCIS Tdap Requirements
USCIS requires:
- One lifetime dose of Tdap for all applicants who have never received it
- Td (tetanus-diphtheria) booster every 10 years after the initial Tdap dose
Requirements by Age Group
Important: If you received a Td booster recently but have never received Tdap, you still need Tdap. The Td booster does not substitute for Tdap.
Tdap vs. Td — What Is the Difference?
Tdap and Td are related but distinct vaccines. Understanding the difference is critical for your immigration medical exam.
- Contains tetanus + diphtheria + pertussis (whooping cough)
- Given once as a lifetime dose
- Required if you have never received it
- Brand names: Adacel, Boostrix
- Contains tetanus + diphtheria only (no pertussis)
- Given as a booster every 10 years after Tdap
- Does NOT satisfy the Tdap requirement
- Sometimes called a "tetanus booster"
Key Point
Tdap and Td are not interchangeable. You need Tdap first (once), then Td boosters every 10 years. A Td booster does not satisfy the Tdap requirement.
The Td Booster Schedule
After receiving Tdap, a Td booster is required every 10 years. If your last Td or Tdap was more than 10 years ago, you will need a Td booster at your immigration medical exam.
Vaccination Timeline
Tip: Check the date of your last tetanus shot. If it was more than 10 years ago, you will need a Td booster at your appointment.
What If You Have Never Received Tdap?
If you have never received Tdap:
- You will receive one dose of Tdap at your immigration medical exam, regardless of when your last Td booster was given.
- After Tdap, you will need Td boosters every 10 years.
- The cost of Tdap is included in our all-inclusive flat fee.
Not Sure If You Have Received Tdap?
Many adults have received Td boosters but never Tdap. If you are unsure whether you have received Tdap specifically, bring your vaccination records and our Civil Surgeon will review them.
Proving Prior Vaccination
To document prior Tdap vaccination, you must provide records that specifically identify the vaccine as Tdap. Acceptable documentation includes:
Vaccination records showing Tdap by name
Not just "tetanus shot" — the record must specifically say Tdap.
School immunization records
School records often include the specific vaccine name and lot number.
Records from a prior healthcare provider
Printed immunization histories from your doctor, urgent care, or pharmacy.
Records showing brand name Adacel or Boostrix
Adacel and Boostrix are brand names for Tdap. A record showing either name confirms Tdap.
Important: A record showing "tetanus shot" or "Td" does not confirm Tdap. The record must specifically identify the vaccine as Tdap (or Adacel/Boostrix, which are brand names for Tdap).
Tip: If your records say "tetanus booster" without specifying Tdap, assume you have not received Tdap and plan to receive it at your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Medical & Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Vaccine requirements, USCIS policies, and CDC schedules may change without notice. Always consult a USCIS-designated Civil Surgeon and a qualified immigration attorney for guidance specific to your individual case.