How homeschool law works in the US

Your state makes the rules

• Homeschooling is legal in every state and in Washington, DC.
• There is no federal homeschool law. The U.S. Department of Education says it “does not regulate or provide financial support for home schooling” – that is a state and local responsibility.
• Each state sets its compulsory school ages and decides whether homeschooling families must give notice, teach set subjects, keep records, test or be evaluated – and how parents qualify.
• Some states have a dedicated homeschool law. In others, families homeschool under the state’s private school, “umbrella” or church school, or tutor laws. Several states offer more than one option.
• Your school district usually handles notices and records, but in some states it is the state education agency. Your state guide says who.
• Going back to school is covered by state and district rules too: districts set grade placement and credit policies, and some states ask you to tell an office when homeschooling ends. Each state guide has a “Going back to public school” section – see also going back to school after homeschooling.

The four broad types of state law

Homeschool groups and researchers often sort states into four broad levels. They are a rough guide to how much paperwork to expect – not legal categories – and the details matter more than the label.

Federal rules that still apply

• Special education (IDEA): Child Find covers all children with disabilities living in a state, including those attending private schools. Whether a homeschooled child counts as a private school child depends on state law. Generally the school district where you live is responsible for finding and evaluating your child. More on special education.
• Federal programs: some federal education programs can serve homeschooled students if the state regards them as private school students – that depends entirely on each state’s policies and definitions.
• School records (FERPA): you have the right to inspect and review your child’s education records. The school must let you within a reasonable time, and no later than 45 days after your request.
• Federal student aid: completing a secondary education at home counts for federal student aid if the homeschool is treated as a homeschool or private school under state law (with a homeschool completion credential where the state requires one). More on college.

Every state at a glance

Each state’s level below is our own summary of its law, checked on October 22, 2026. Open the state guide for the details, the official page and the law itself.