CVS requires prescriptions for COVID vaccines: States where you can get shots following RFK Jr. changes

It doesn’t matter if the news of a surge in COVID cases has you all concerned about your health and your family’s. This fall, getting a COVID-19 booster has become more complex at CVS pharmacies across the United States of America – thanks to new federal vaccine rules enacted by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and the FDA revoking emergency use authorizations, access to shots is now limited largely to older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Many CVS locations now require a prescription in some states, while in a few, vaccines are completely unavailable. This shift is fueling confusion, frustration, and concern just as cases begin to climb, especially with the emergence of the "stratus" variant.


What the RFK Jr.–led changes mean

Earlier this month, the Food and Drug Administration ended the emergency use authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 vaccines for the general public. Now, only individuals aged 65 and older, or those aged 6 months to 64 with underlying conditions, are formally eligible for booster shots without extra steps. Physicians may still prescribe the vaccine off-label for others, but this adds complexity for many seeking vaccination.

Kennedy, who oversaw these changes as HHS Secretary, framed it as a shift toward a risk-based vaccine strategy, aligning more with international public health approaches and emphasizing "science, safety, and common sense." However, the abrupt narrowing of eligibility has triggered sharp criticism from health experts, who fear it will hinder access, especially as cases begin to rise again.

Not just that, these policy shifts have sparked major internal upheavals: the firing of CDC Director Susan Monarez, the resignations of several top officials, and widespread staff walkouts. Federal experts have raised alarms that these moves politicize vaccine science.


CVS vaccine access: State-by-state breakdown

CVS, one of the country's largest vaccination outlets, has updated its COVID-19 shot availability based on evolving regulations:

No prescription needed (34 states): CVS continues to offer COVID-19 boosters freely in 34 states where pharmacists can administer the vaccine under existing rules. Individuals who meet FDA-approved criteria (65+ or with qualifying conditions) can still walk in and get vaccinated.

Prescription required (13 states + D.C.): In 13 states and the District of Columbia, CVS now mandates a doctor’s prescription, even for those who fit the new FDA eligibility criteria. These areas include Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and D.C.

Vaccination unavailable (Massachusetts, Nevada, New Mexico): CVS has completely halted COVID-19 vaccination services in these three states due to state regulations that currently prevent the administration of even prescription-based vaccines.

In Colorado, both CVS and Walgreens now require prescriptions for COVID boosters due to state law and the absence of clear CDC-ACIP guidance; pharmacists cannot vaccinate without explicit approval.



Why does it seem so confusing?

If you’re still wrapping your head around the changes, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here’s why these shifts go beyond some guideline changes.

Rising COVID cases and winter concerns: With a "stratus" variant causing a surge in infections and ER visits, timely and equitable vaccine access is more critical than ever.

Insurance uncertainty: Without clear CDC guidance, many insurers are unsure whether to cover COVID vaccines outside the newly sanctioned groups. Coverage may waive or demand out-of-pocket payments, possibly around $200-$225 per dose.

Pharmacist limitations: In at least 19 states, pharmacists are legally restricted to administering vaccines only to those meeting FDA or CDC criteria. For others, a prescription and potentially off-label administration are needed.

Complex access for healthy younger adults: Healthy people under 65 now face extra hurdles, needing to visit a doctor first for a prescription, potentially deterring many due to added steps, cost, or confusion.

Delayed CDC recommendations: The CDC’s Advisory Committee (ACIP) is expected to meet in mid-September to clarify eligibility and guidance, which will influence both state policies and insurance coverage decisions.


What you should know

First, if you’re 65 or older, or have a qualifying health condition, you’re still eligible under FDA-authorized guidelines, but know your state’s access rules.

Second, check your state. Visit CVS online or call your local pharmacy to see whether you fall into a no-prescription, prescription-required, or unavailable category.

See your doctor if needed. In prescription-required states, schedule a quick doctor visit to get authorization, especially if you're under 65 with no underlying condition.

In states where CVS isn’t offering vaccines (Massachusetts, Nevada, and New Mexico), hospitals or doctor offices may still administer shots. Confirm before heading out.

Watch for updated guidance from the CDC’s ACIP meeting in September, which may change access and insurance coverage policy soon.

Contact your insurer to confirm whether they will cover COVID vaccines under the new rules, or if you’ll pay out of pocket.

Finally, if you’re unsure, call CVS or your local pharmacy ahead of time to check availability, requirements, and documentation.


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