{"id":2294,"date":"2022-05-06T15:48:26","date_gmt":"2022-05-06T15:48:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/miacademy-blog-3f61b5.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?page_id=2294"},"modified":"2026-04-06T22:25:57","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T22:25:57","slug":"california-homeschool-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/miacademy.co\/homeschool-curriculum\/by-state\/california-homeschool-laws\/","title":{"rendered":"Homeschooling in California 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Are you considering the switch to homeschooling<\/a>? You\u2019re not alone! Many parents are seeking more flexibility and autonomy than traditional schools can provide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

California\u2019s homeschooling laws follow private school rules, which is why parents must establish a \u201chome-based private school.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019ve homeschooled before or are still on the fence, we\u2019re glad you\u2019re here! The legal requirements for homeschooling in California and straightforward and easy to follow! In this article, we\u2019ll cover everything you need to know to start homeschooling in California with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homeschooling in California at a Glance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

California – The Golden State<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Option<\/td>Home-based Private School (PSA)<\/td>Private Satellite Program (PSP)<\/td>Certified Tutor<\/td><\/tr>
Age<\/td>6-18<\/td>6-18<\/td>6-18<\/td><\/tr>
Standardized Testing<\/td>Not required<\/td>Dependent on program<\/td>Not required<\/td><\/tr>
Subjects<\/td>Required to teach the subjects taught in public schools<\/td>Required to teach the subjects taught in public schools<\/td>Required to teach the subjects taught in public schools<\/td><\/tr>
Time Requirements<\/td>None<\/td>Dependent on program<\/td>At least 3 hours per day<\/td><\/tr>
Graduation Requirements<\/td>Determined by parent<\/td>Dependent on program<\/td>Determined by parent<\/td><\/tr>
Special Requirements<\/td>Must file private school affidavit annually<\/td>Must follow rules and procedures of individual program<\/td>Must keep a copy of criminal record of tutor if they are not the parent<\/td><\/tr>
Financial Resources Available<\/td>No<\/td>No<\/td>No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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The first step to homeschooling in California is deciding how you are going to homeschool. There are a few different options in California: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Option 1: Establish your own home-based private school<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The California Department of Education allows parents to file for the creation of their own home-based private school. To do this, you\u2019ll need to file your private school affidavit<\/a> (PSA) between October 1st and 15th annually. You can find a full list of instructions on the PSA instructions page<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Families who choose this option must teach the required subjects and keep their own records. This option gives parents the most freedom and is a popular choice for California homeschool families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Option 2: Enroll in a private satellite program (PSP)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A private school satellite program (PSP) provides access to private school curriculum and resources at home. Parents are typically the primary educators, using curriculum and resources provided by the PSP. These programs operate under the regulations that govern private schools, ensuring they meet specific educational standards and requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PSPs also commonly offer record keeping, testing, parental guidance, and additional resources like workshops or group learning activities. With a PSP, families can enjoy the benefits of both private school and home education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Option 3: Hire a certified tutor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To homeschool with a tutor, the tutor must hold a valid California teaching credential for the grade level they are teaching. In addition, students must receive instruction in all required subjects in English. Instruction must take place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at a minimum of 3 hours per day for 175 days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unlike with other homeschooling options, families don\u2019t need to file the annual private school affidavit, making it a straightforward alternative for parents seeking a more personalized education for their child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Parent Qualifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As a general rule, parents must be capable of teaching in order to homeschool. All three options do not require parents to hold a teaching license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you do hold a valid California teaching credential, you have the additional option of registering yourself as the certified tutor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notice of Intent <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In California, parents must submit the Private School Affidavit (PSA)<\/a> in order to create a home-based private school. This must be filed annually between October 1st and 15th. If your home-based private school begins outside of this period, it\u2019s best to file the affidavit as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Families who choose options 2 or 3 do not need to file a PSA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For all options, it\u2019s important to formally withdraw your student to prevent any truancy claims. It\u2019s also a good idea to keep copies of all withdrawn paperwork or school correspondence for future reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Attendance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Children ages 6-18 are required to be in school in the State of California. For home-based private schools, there is no minimum time requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students with private tutors must receive instruction for at least three hours a day between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for 175 days each school year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

California Homeschool Curriculum Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In California, PSA and PSP homeschoolers are required to study the subjects taught in California public schools. For grades 1-6, the required subjects are: <\/p>\n\n\n\n