Your Legal Guide to Homeschooling in California

Introduction: Understanding California's Homeschooling Laws

Homeschooling in California is fully legal, but it comes with specific legal requirements that parents must follow to remain compliant with the state’s education laws. Whether you are considering homeschooling for the first time or need a refresher on legal obligations, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including filing a Private School Affidavit (PSA), record-keeping requirements, compulsory education laws, and how charter school homeschooling differs from independent homeschooling.

This article is one of five from our California Homeschooling Series:

Getting Started: California Homeschooling Series
Are you thinking about homeschooling in California, or looking to refine your current approach? In this comprehensive series, we take a deep dive into the most important topics—from comparing independent homeschooling to public charter programs, to meeting legal requirements, budgeting, socialization, and more. Whether you’re brand new or
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By understanding California’s legal framework, you can homeschool confidently and avoid potential pitfalls.

California's Compulsory Education Law

California law requires all children between the ages of 6 and 18 to attend school. However, parents have several legal options for fulfilling this requirement outside of traditional public schooling. The main exemptions include:

  • Private School Affidavit (PSA): Parents operate their own home-based private school by filing a PSA.
  • Private School Satellite Program (PSP): Parents enroll in a private school that supervises homeschooling families.
  • Public Charter School Homeschooling: Parents enroll in a public charter school that provides independent study programs for homeschoolers.
  • Private Tutoring: A credentialed tutor provides instruction in compliance with the law.

Each of these options has specific requirements, which we will cover in detail.

Filing a Private School Affidavit (PSA)

What Is the PSA?

The Private School Affidavit (PSA) is a required document that legally establishes your homeschool as a private school. Filing this affidavit is the primary way that parents homeschool independently in California.

When and Where to File

The PSA must be filed annually between October 1 and October 15 through the California Department of Education (CDE) website. Parents who begin homeschooling mid-year should file as soon as they start homeschooling.

Information Required for the PSA

When filing the PSA, you will provide:

  • The name of your private school (you create this name yourself)
  • The names and number of enrolled students
  • The name(s) of faculty (typically the parent or guardian)
  • The address of the homeschool
  • A statement that the private school will offer instruction in required subjects

What the PSA Does Not Do

  • The PSA does not mean the state approves or accredits your homeschool.
  • The state does not monitor your curriculum or teaching methods.
  • You do not need permission from your school district to homeschool.

1. Record-Keeping Requirements

Under California law, private homeschoolers must maintain certain records, including:

  • Attendance Register: A simple record showing days of instruction.
  • Course of Study: A general list of subjects taught (e.g., math, science, language arts, history, etc.).
  • Faculty List: A document listing the instructors (typically the parent).
  • Student Immunization Records or Waivers: Homeschoolers are exempt from California’s vaccine mandates for public and private schools, but records should be kept.

These records do not need to be submitted to any authority but should be kept in case of inquiries.

2. Required Subjects

California law requires homeschoolers to provide instruction in the following core subjects:

  • English (reading, writing, literature)
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies (history, civics, geography)
  • Fine Arts
  • Physical Education
  • Health Education

There is no required curriculum—parents have full discretion over how to teach these subjects.

3. Testing and Evaluations

  • State Testing: Independent homeschoolers are not required to participate in state testing such as CAASPP.
  • Standardized Tests (Optional): Parents may choose to administer tests like the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT-10) or Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) for personal evaluation.

Public Charter School Homeschooling: A Different Approach

Some families opt to homeschool through a public charter school offering independent study programs. Unlike filing a PSA, charter school homeschoolers remain public school students, meaning:

  • They receive state funding for curriculum and extracurriculars.
  • They must use secular (non-religious) curriculum.
  • They work with an assigned credentialed teacher who reviews progress.
  • They must participate in state testing.

This option is great for families who want financial support and guidance but are comfortable with more oversight.

If you decide to transition from homeschooling back into a public school:

  • The school may require an evaluation or placement test.
  • Parents should provide records of coursework to facilitate grade-level placement.
  • High schoolers should keep detailed transcripts if they plan to transfer credits.

Because homeschooling laws can change, parents should stay informed through organizations like:

Conclusion: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

California law provides a clear legal framework for homeschooling, offering parents multiple ways to educate their children outside of traditional public schools. By following the appropriate legal steps, filing the PSA on time, keeping proper records, and understanding your responsibilities, you can homeschool confidently without legal concerns.

If you’re just getting started, choose the homeschooling path that best suits your family's needs—whether fully independent or through a charter school—and take advantage of California’s many homeschool support networks.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Laws and regulations may change. Always verify information with official state sources.