California Homeschool Requirements
California requires minimal paperwork — file a notice and you're set.
At a Glance
Compulsory Ages
6–18
Regulation Level
Low regulation
Notification
Required
Testing
Not required
Portfolio
Not required
Teacher Qualifications
Capable of teaching (Option 1), California teaching credential (Option 3)
Immunization
Required
Detailed Requirements
Instruction Days
175 days per year
Daily Hours
3 hours per day minimum
Notification Required
Yes — must file with your district or state
Testing Required
No testing required
Portfolio Required
No portfolio required
Exemption Available
Private school affidavit
Required Subjects
Details
Three options: home-based private school (file affidavit Oct 1-15), private school satellite program, or credentialed tutor (3 hrs/day, 175 days). Most use Option 1. English instruction required.
How Homeschool OS tracks California's requirements
Attendance Tracker
Every school day is logged automatically as lessons are completed.
Daily Hours Log
Lesson durations accumulate into daily and annual hour totals.
Subject Mapping
Every curriculum and lesson is tagged with its subject for coverage tracking.
Filing Reminders
Get notified before notification deadlines so paperwork is never late.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start homeschooling in California?
To start homeschooling in California, you must file a notice of intent with your local school district or state education agency. Compulsory education applies to children ages 6 through 18.
Do I need to notify anyone to homeschool in California?
Yes. California requires homeschool families to file a notice of intent or similar notification with their local school district or state education agency.
Is testing required for homeschoolers in California?
No. California does not require standardized testing or assessments for homeschooled students.
What subjects are required for homeschooling in California?
California requires instruction in: Other, History, Language Arts, Math, Science.
What ages are covered by compulsory education in California?
Children ages 6 through 18 are subject to compulsory education laws in California.
Are there teacher qualification requirements in California?
Yes. California's requirements: Capable of teaching (Option 1), California teaching credential (Option 3).
Official Sources
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Similar States
Other low regulation states:
This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. Always verify requirements with your state's department of education before relying on this data.