When is the third Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine dose given?

HPV Third Dose Timing

The third dose of HPV vaccine should be administered 6 months after the first dose (or at minimum 12 weeks after the second dose if the schedule is interrupted). 1

Standard 3-Dose Schedule

For individuals requiring a 3-dose series, the timing is:

• First dose: Day 0
• Second dose: 2 months after the first dose
• Third dose: 6 months after the first dose 1

This 3-dose schedule applies to:

• All individuals who initiate vaccination at age 15 years or older 2, 3, 4
• Individuals with immunocompromising conditions (regardless of age at initiation) 2, 3

Minimum Dosing Intervals

If the standard schedule cannot be followed, minimum acceptable intervals are:

• Between doses 1 and 2: Minimum 4 weeks 1, 3
• Between doses 2 and 3: Minimum 12 weeks 1, 3

Any doses given at shorter intervals than these minimums should be readministered. 1

Interrupted Schedules

If the third dose is delayed, it should be administered as soon as possible without restarting the entire series. 1, 2 The vaccine series does not need to be restarted regardless of how much time has elapsed. 1

2-Dose Schedule (Does Not Require Third Dose)

Importantly, individuals who initiate vaccination before age 15 only require 2 doses given 6-12 months apart and do not need a third dose. 2, 3, 4 This represents current standard practice and eliminates the need for a third dose in this younger age group entirely.

Key Clinical Pitfall

The most common error is administering doses too close together. Doses given before minimum intervals must be repeated to count toward completion of the series. 1 Always verify adequate time has elapsed before administering subsequent doses.