🏛️ How to Homeschool Legally — Without the Stress
Whether you’re just getting started or switching gears mid-year, figuring out the legal side of homeschooling can feel overwhelming. But take a deep breath — it doesn’t have to be.
Let’s walk through the basics together, and point you to the best resources so you can feel confident and compliant.
🇺🇸 Start with Your State’s Requirements
Homeschool laws are made at the state level, which means the rules can vary quite a bit depending on where you live. Some states have very simple requirements, while others ask for specific paperwork, assessments, or teacher qualifications.
💡 The easiest way to find your state’s homeschool laws is by visiting this map from HSLDA:
👉 Click here to view your state’s homeschool laws on HSLDA
✅ A Few General Tips
While laws differ, here are a few things that are often (but not always) required:
- An Intent to Homeschool Notice — Sent to your local school district or state board
- Basic Subjects Taught — Like math, reading, history, science, etc.
- Attendance Records — Often a simple log is enough
- Yearly Assessment — May be through testing, portfolio, or evaluation (in some states)
Remember, you don’t have to figure it all out alone — there are communities and tools to help.
💬 A Friendly Word of Caution
📝 This page is not legal advice. It’s shared for encouragement and informational purposes only. Please consult HSLDA or a local homeschool organization for official legal guidance.
🌍 U.S. Families Only: This page was written with United States homeschooling laws in mind. If you’re homeschooling internationally, requirements may differ.
🧡 You’ve Got This
The legal side of homeschooling can sound intimidating, but with the right tools and encouragement, it becomes just one more step on your journey — and a very manageable one.
We’re cheering you on every step of the way!