Permission Slip Template Example + How to Create Your Own

Yes, permission slips are legally binding agreements between your school and the student’s parent or legal guardian. However, the language in the document must comply with local laws and regulations to hold up in court, so it’s always best to work with a lawyer when writing one.

The purpose of a permission slip is to obtain written consent from a parent or guardian for a student to participate in a specific activity. They also serve to: 

• Help your school or organization manage liability concerns and ensure safety by requiring parents and guardians to acknowledge risks and waive the right to sue for damages.
• Inform parents and guardians about the specific details and risks of the activity. 
• Be a record of communication between the school and the parent, fostering trust and transparency.
• Keep operations running smoothly by streamlining the process of obtaining consent. 

A permission slip template is a pre-formatted, reusable document used to obtain consent for a minor’s participation in various activities. Permission slip templates are typically used by schools, summer camps, or other youth organizations for many different purposes, such as:

• School field trips
• Overnight camping, retreats, or other multi-day trips
• Participation in sports
• Swimming or water activities
• Administering medication
• Emergency medical treatment authorization
• Photo and video release
• Internet and technology usage agreements
• Participation or viewing of sensitive curriculum and materials
• After-school club participation 

Yes! The E-Sign Act established that electronic signatures are just as valid as wet signatures. This makes signed digital documents just as legally binding as paper forms.

Digital waivers and permission slips also bring various benefits to the table, provided you choose reliable software like Smartwaiver. They’re more secure, convenient, and easier to store and locate. Plus, your school will save money on printing costs and be more sustainable.

Typically, permission slips should include the following key elements:

• Title and description of the event or activity
• Date, time, and location of the activity
• Transportation details (if the activity is not on school property)
• Cost and deadline for covering any fees (if applicable)
• Request for emergency contact information and medical information (e.g., allergies or medications)
• Any special instructions or requirements
• Parental consent agreement
• Waiver of liability (if necessary)
• Signature and date from the parent or guardian

While we still recommend getting help from a lawyer, including these core elements will help you create a descriptive form and obtain the signatures you need.

Each permission slip will differ depending on how and why it is being used. However, there are several broad categories of permission slips defined by their legal coverage. Use these categories to help structure your waiver:

• General or blanket form: These forms grant custodial authorization for the minor to attend an off-site event or participate in an activity.
• Liability waiver: This type of form releases the organization from legal responsibility for potential damages and formally acknowledges that the parent or guardian understands inherent risks.
• Medical treatment authorization: This form or clause empowers staff to seek emergency medical care or authorize procedures in the parent's absence.
• Media release: This form or clause allows the organization to use the minor’s likeness for marketing or publication.
• Technology and acceptable use agreement: These permission slips define rules for digital conduct and limit your organization’s liability for exposure to online content or data privacy. For example, schools that issue laptops to each student may require guardians to sign this form.