California Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s always important to consult the most up-to-date and official sources or seek legal advice for specific information.

In California, homeschooling is legal, and parents have the option to educate their children at home instead of sending them to a public or private school. The relevant laws and regulations for homeschooling in California are primarily governed by the state’s compulsory education laws, which require children between the ages of 6 and 18 to receive an education.
Here are key points to consider regarding homeschooling in California:

  • Private School Affidavit: Homeschooling families in California often operate as small private schools or as members of a larger private school. Parents or guardians must file a Private School Affidavit (PSA) with the California Department of Education (CDE) to establish their homeschool as a private school. This affidavit is due annually by October 1st.
  • Qualifications: In California, there are no specific educational qualifications required for parents or guardians to homeschool their children.
  • Curriculum: While there are no specific curriculum requirements, homeschooling families in California are expected to provide instruction in the core subjects, including English, mathematics, science, social studies, and health. However, there is generally no oversight or approval process for the curriculum used in homeschooling.
  • Recordkeeping: Homeschooling parents in California are responsible for keeping records of attendance, courses taken, and the educational progress of their children. These records may be requested by education authorities or for college admissions purposes.
  • Testing and Evaluation: As of my knowledge cutoff, California does not have specific requirements for standardized testing or formal evaluation of homeschooled students. However, it is advisable to keep track of your child’s progress through periodic assessments or portfolios to demonstrate educational achievement.
  • Special Education: If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or special educational needs, additional considerations may apply. It’s important to research the specific requirements and consult with relevant authorities or support organizations.
  • Driver’s Education: Homeschooled teenagers in California are eligible to fulfill the state’s driver’s education requirements through various options, including approved online courses or private programs.

It’s essential to note that this is a general summary and should not be considered legal advice. Homeschooling laws and regulations can vary, and it’s recommended to review the official California Department of Education website or consult with a legal professional or homeschooling organizations for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Updated October 2023

California Homeschool State Law Resources

NOTE:   HomeSchoolFacts intends the Homeschool State Laws above information to be used for research purposes only. None of this information is intended as legal advice by HomeSchoolFacts.  

Please know that the summaries provided are intended for research purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. REMEMBER: The most important thing you can do to prepare for homeschooling your child is to become familiar with your state’s homeschooling laws.

Kindly note that the information provided herein serves as a general overview of homeschooling laws in each state. The content is based on available information, which may not always be up to date. It is essential to acknowledge that laws can experience modifications over time. Therefore, it is crucial to refer to official sources or contact the State's Department of Education for the most recent and precise information regarding homeschooling regulations.

Homeschool and School at Home Resources

Global Student Network

Global Student Network’s mission is to offer the highest quality online curriculum available to homeschooling families. GSN offers a wide range of online curriculum options. We have over 2000 course offerings including Honors, AP®, World Languages, and Career and Technical Education courses.

 

International Virtual Learning Academy

IVLA is an accredited online private school that allows students to choose their own educational path while meeting the expectation of a larger future. IVLA provides experiences beyond the traditional classroom; allowing students the freedom to meet their personal goals.

Equip Christian Academy

Equip Christian Academy is an accredited, online private Christian school serving students in grades K-12. Equip is devoted to providing each student an outstanding faith-based education. We are dedicated to supporting families that want their children to have an exceptional, accredited, academic experience from home.