How to Homeschool in California

Mother helping her son with homeschooling on a laptop computer

How Do I Start Homeschooling in California?

To begin homeschooling in California, you must choose one of the state’s legal options:

File a Private School Affidavit (PSA) to establish your home as a private school. You can file the affidavit online via the California Department of Education’s PSA portal.

Map of the United States with California highlighted in red

Enroll in a Private School Satellite Program (PSP) that caters to homeschoolers. Find options through statewide directories or support groups like California Homeschool Network (CHN).
Homeschool through a public charter school offering independent study. Browse schools and requirements at California Charter Schools Association.
Use a certified tutor with valid California teaching credentials. More details are available through HSLDA California.

Many homeschoolers choose the PSA route, which is simple and grants families maximum freedom. Others really enjoy the benefits of going through a charter school. Any option has the potential to be a good choice, depending on your family’s needs and circumstances.

California Homeschooling Laws

Compulsory Education Ages

Children must attend school or be homeschooled starting at the beginning of the school year, when they turn 6 years old, and end on their 18th birthday, or upon high school graduation if they graduate before they turn 18.

Notification Requirements

If using the PSA option, you must file the Private School Affidavit between October 1st and 15th each year.

Parents overseeing the homeschooling of their children

PSPs generally require enrollment before the new school year—often between February and July, with deadlines varying by program and some allowing late add-ons on a case-by-case basis.

Charter independent study programs align with public school timelines—applications due early in the year (February–March), agreements signed before the school year begins, and orientation taking place around March–April.

Instructional Requirements

Parents must offer instruction in the following subjects: English, math, social sciences, science, fine arts, health, and physical education. While California does not mandate a specific number of instructional hours for homeschoolers under the PSA option, it’s recommended to provide consistent, age-appropriate instruction equivalent to what is typically expected in traditional schools. PSPs and charter schools may have additional or more specific requirements.

Child practicing counting with paperclips

A child who is being instructed by someone with a California teaching credential (such as a tutor), for the appropriate grade level, is exempt from public school attendance. This instructor may be the parent, provided they hold a valid credential. Instruction must take place for at least three hours per day between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., for a minimum of 175 days each school year, covering the branches of study required in public schools and taught in English. Families using this option are not required to file private school affidavits or submit reports to the state.

Recordkeeping

Maintain attendance records, courses of study, and immunization records. Though these are not submitted to the state, they must be kept on file.

Assessments

Standardized testing is not required for homeschoolers in California.

How Much Does California Pay for Homeschooling?

California does not directly pay parents to homeschool. However, families enrolled in public charter schools may receive funds to use on approved educational materials and services. Visit HSLDA.org for the latest information.

How Do I Enroll My Child in Homeschooling in California?

Children going for a hike outside in nature

To enroll through the PSA option:

File your affidavit with the California Department of Education.
Set up your “private school” with basic documents (attendance, course outlines, etc.).
Withdraw your child from public school if already enrolled.

To enroll through a PSP or charter school, you will need to contact the specific school you are working with to see what their specific requirements are.

If you are using a tutor who holds a valid state credential for the grade taught and the conditions specified under California Education Code (EC) Section 48224 are met, then no, you do not need to file an affidavit.

How Do I Switch from Public School to Homeschool in California?

Notify your current school in writing of your intent to withdraw.
File the PSA if choosing that route. If you are a resident of California who will be using an online school outside the State of California, you still need to file an affidavit per California Education Code (EC) Section 33190. This enables the filed affidavit as the school of record in California using the out-of-state online enrollment as the filed school’s curriculum.
Begin instruction immediately—no waiting period required.

How Do I Comply with Homeschool Laws in California?

Choose your legal option.
File necessary paperwork (e.g., PSA).
Teach required subjects.
Maintain records.

For ongoing legal guidance, consider joining HSLDA.

What Do I Need to Homeschool My Child in California?

Required Subjects

According to California homeschool requirements, families must cover these core areas:

Language Arts (Reading, Writing, Spelling)
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science
Health and Physical Education
Fine Arts

Homeschooling with word cards from All About Learning Press

Curriculum Choices

Homeschoolers in California have the freedom to choose any curriculum. All About Learning Press offers open-and-go, mastery-based programs:

These programs use the Orton-Gillingham approach, making them especially effective for children with dyslexia or other learning struggles.

Tips for a Successful Homeschooling Experience

Start small. Focus on a routine and adjust as needed.
Make learning hands-on. Use games, field trips, and real-world applications.
Create a cozy learning environment. Even a comfy chair and lap desk can work wonders.
Stay organized. Use planners and folders to track progress. Here is a helpful article with 7 Tips for Staying Organized.
Connect with homeschool support groups. Seek out California homeschool co-ops and local PSPs. A quick search of Facebook groups will turn up many options.
Be flexible. Adapt to your child’s learning style and pace.
Be consistent. Children thrive with reliable, consistent routines and expectations.

FAQ About Homeschooling in California

Does California have education savings accounts?

Not currently. Some charter programs offer instructional funds, but these are not universally available.

Mother and daughter homeschooling at a table outside

Do parents need qualifications to homeschool?

No specific qualifications are required if filing a PSA.

Can I homeschool someone else’s child in California?

Yes, under certain conditions, such as using a credentialed tutor or enrolling the child in your private school under a PSA.

Are there additional support resources?

Yes! From online forums to local park days, California boasts a vibrant homeschool community.

For further information and legal updates, visit HSLDA California.

Looking for an easy, effective curriculum? Check out All About Learning Press to get started today!

Disclaimers

All About Learning Press cannot offer legal advice. We recommend that parents educate themselves on local and state regulations from government websites or by contacting a local homeschool advocacy group.

All info is current as of June 2025.