Consent Form Template
A consent form records that a person agreed to something after being told what it involves: participating in an activity, receiving a service, having their data used, or allowing a child to take part. The signature matters, but what really makes consent meaningful is that the form explained what the person was agreeing to.
Consent that was signed but not informed
A form that says "I consent" without explaining the activity, its risks or the use of the information is weak evidence of real consent. Paper consent forms also get lost, and when one is needed later, nobody can find the version a particular person signed.
What the template covers
What the person is agreeing to
A plain description of the activity, service or use, and any significant risks.
Their choices
Optional items listed separately, and how to withdraw consent.
Minors and guardians
A parent or guardian signs for minors, with the child's details.
Signed and stored with a timestamp
Each signed form keeps the exact version of the text, time and signer details.
Consent, records and electronic signatures
Requirements for consent depend on the context: research involving human subjects follows the Common Rule (45 C.F.R. Part 46), health information uses follow HIPAA authorization rules (45 C.F.R. § 164.508), and many activities are governed by state law. For many uses, electronic consent is valid. The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, 15 U.S.C. § 7001, provides that a signature, contract or record may not be denied legal effect solely because it is in electronic form, and every state except New York has adopted the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act; New York reaches the same result through its Electronic Signatures and Records Act. Where a specific regulation sets its own e-consent requirements, follow it.
A summer camp's forms
A summer camp in North Carolina collected activity consent forms, medical information forms and photo releases on paper at drop-off. It now sends all three to parents by text two weeks ahead. Counselors check a list on a phone at drop-off instead of a binder.
What a consent form should include
- Who is asking for consent and how to contact them.
- A plain description of what the person is agreeing to.
- Significant risks or uses of information.
- Optional items listed separately, and how to withdraw.
- Signature of the person or guardian, and the date.
Questions people ask about this
What makes consent informed?
The person is told, in plain language, what they are agreeing to, the significant risks, and their choices, before they sign.
Can consent forms be signed electronically?
Yes, in most contexts under the ESIGN Act and UETA. Some regulated contexts, like research or health data, have their own e-consent rules.
Who signs a consent form for a minor?
A parent or legal guardian.
How long should I keep signed consent forms?
As long as the activity, applicable statutes of limitation or industry rules require; electronic storage makes retrieval easier.
Can one form cover several activities?
It can, but separate checkboxes or forms for distinct activities make the consent clearer and easier to rely on.
Should I keep a copy of the exact text the person saw?
Yes. E-signed forms store the exact version that was signed, which avoids disputes when your form changes later.
Can consent be given by text message?
A signed form is far stronger evidence than a reply text. Send the form by text and let the person sign it on their phone.
Should consent forms be in plain language?
Yes. Short sentences and everyday words make consent more meaningful and easier to defend if it is ever questioned.
Can a consent form be in two languages?
Yes. A bilingual form, or a version in the signer's language, helps ensure the person understood what they agreed to.