When to use this slip
Send a field trip permission slip home for any trip that takes students off campus. It tells families where their child is going and what it costs. The signed half gives you parent consent plus the emergency and medical details you’ll need on the day.
Check first whether your school or district requires its own form. Many do, and this template can serve as a cover letter or backup.
How to fill it out
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| School, teacher and class | Who is running the trip. |
| Destination | The place and its full address. |
| Date, departure and return | The date and times, so families can plan pickup. |
| Transportation | School bus, walking or another method. |
| Cost and due date | The amount and when it’s due. Mention any help available for families who need it. |
| What to bring | Lunch, water, clothing, or anything else students need. |
| Return-by date | When the signed slip must come back. |
| Tear-off section | The child’s name, emergency contact, medical needs, a chaperone checkbox and the parent’s signature. |
Filled-in example
- School: Lincoln Elementary, Mr. Harris, Grade 4
- Destination: City Science Museum, 200 Discovery Way, Denver, CO 80205
- Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026
- Departure and return: 9:00 AM and 2:15 PM
- Transportation: School bus
- Cost: $8.00, due November 12. Please contact Mr. Harris privately if cost is a concern.
- What to bring: A packed lunch with no glass containers, a water bottle and a jacket.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the return-by date. Slips trickle in forever without one.
- No emergency contact. It’s the most important field on the slip. Make it required.
- Asking for unnecessary details. Collect only what you’ll need on the trip.
- Losing the slips. Bring the signed slips on the trip, in a folder with the first-aid kit.
Frequently asked questions
Is a permission slip legally binding?
A permission slip shows that a parent consented to the trip and was told about it. It isn’t a guarantee against liability. Your district’s policies and forms take priority.
Can a parent give permission by email?
Some schools accept it, but many require a signature. Check your school’s policy.
What if a student doesn’t return the slip?
Most schools don’t let a student go without a signed slip. Plan a supervised activity at school for them.
Should I ask about allergies?
Yes. Allergies and medications matter on trips with food, animals or outdoor time.