The hepatitis B vaccine is usually given as a series of 3 doses over a 6-month period for full protection. The typical schedule is:

• Dose 1: Initial dose
• Dose 2: At least 1 month after the first dose
• Dose 3: At least 4 months after the first dose (and at least 2 months after the second dose)

Most healthy people do not need booster doses after completing this series. Boosters may be necessary only for certain groups such as healthcare workers with inadequate protection, people with kidney failure, or those exposed to hepatitis B after vaccination. For infants, the vaccine series often begins at birth, with a recommended schedule of doses at birth, 1 month, and 6 months. An accelerated schedule may be used if faster protection is required. In summary, after completing the initial 3-dose series, booster shots are generally not needed unless specific risk factors or exposure occurs.