Hours / Days
No specific requirement
State Code
AZ
Subjects
5 required
Filing Requirements
One-Time Notarized Affidavit of Intent
Within 30 days of beginning homeschoolingFile a notarized affidavit with the county school superintendent (not the school district). Include a certified birth certificate. This is filed once and does not need annual renewal.
How to Comply with Arizona's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Arizona
Legal Classification
Home School (Homeschool Affidavit)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-16
Steps to Get Started
Obtain a Notarized Affidavit of Intent
You'll need to file a notarized Affidavit of Intent to Homeschool with your county school superintendent. This affidavit is a legal document sworn under oath that states your intention to provide home-based education. You can use Arizona's standard form or create your own affidavit that includes required information.
- Include your child's full name and date of birth
- Provide your current address and phone number
- Include the parent/legal guardian name and contact information
You can have the affidavit notarized at most banks, libraries, or UPS stores for a small fee.
File Within 30 Days of Starting
Submit the notarized affidavit to your county school superintendent's office within 30 days of beginning homeschooling. You must also provide a certified copy of your child's birth certificate with the affidavit.
- Request a certified birth certificate from your vital records office if you don't have one
- Deliver or mail the affidavit and birth certificate to the superintendent
- Ask for a receipt confirming receipt of your filing
Filing early helps you stay in compliance and clarifies when your homeschool program officially begins.
Teach Required Subjects
Arizona law requires instruction in five core subjects: reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science. You have complete freedom in choosing your curriculum and approach—there are no curriculum approval or textbook requirements.
- Reading and grammar can be taught through one literature-based program
- Math can be any curriculum at your child's level
- Social studies includes history, geography, and civics
- Science can include life science, earth science, and physical science
You don't need to teach these subjects in any particular way or use any specific textbooks—just cover the five subjects.
Maintain Attendance Records
Keep a simple record showing the days your child received instruction. This doesn't need to be submitted to the state, but you should have it available if requested by the superintendent.
- Track attendance by date on a calendar or spreadsheet
- Document the subjects covered if possible
- Keep immunization records on file
Many families use a simple calendar with checkmarks for school days or a basic spreadsheet.
Build a Portfolio
While Arizona doesn't require formal assessments or testing, maintaining a portfolio of your child's work is a best practice. This demonstrates educational progress and is helpful documentation.
- Collect samples of writing, math work, and projects
- Save test results from any assessments you administer
- Keep notes on books read, experiments completed, or field trips taken
Know What NOT to File
Do not file an affidavit if your child is enrolled in a virtual charter school, public school at home program, or has an Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) contract. Also, do not file for children under age 6 or over 16, as they're outside the compulsory education age range.
If unsure about whether your situation requires filing, contact your county school superintendent's office for clarification.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was previously in public school, no formal withdrawal process is needed beyond filing your homeschool affidavit. If you later want to re-enroll in public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Arizona homeschoolers can participate in public school extracurricular activities and sports in some districts. Contact your district's athletic director to learn about specific opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Special Education
Arizona offers Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) for students with special education needs, which provide funding for educational services. These accounts have different filing requirements than standard homeschooling.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Use a wall calendar or digital calendar to track school days and attendance
- Keep receipts for curriculum purchases and educational materials
- Save immunization records in a safe, organized location
- Create a portfolio with samples of completed work and projects
- Take photos or video of hands-on learning activities and science experiments
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
No annual testing required. Parents assess their child's progress using their chosen method.
Record Keeping
No record-keeping requirement mandated by the state.
Key Facts About Arizona
One-time notarized affidavit filed with county school superintendent (not school district)
Certified birth certificate required with filing
No testing requirements at any grade level
No record-keeping requirements
Ages 6-16 must receive instruction (can delay to age 8 if noted on affidavit)
“Every family's homeschool journey in Arizona is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I file my homeschool affidavit in Arizona?
File a notarized Affidavit of Intent with your county school superintendent (not the school district) within 30 days of starting homeschooling. You will need to include a certified birth certificate. This is a one-time filing that does not need annual renewal.
Are there standardized testing requirements?
No. Arizona does not require any standardized testing at any grade level. You are free to assess your child's progress through your chosen method.
What subjects are mandatory in Arizona?
Arizona lists reading, grammar, math, social studies, and science as required subjects. However, the state does not enforce these strictly or require curriculum approval. You have significant flexibility.
Can I delay formal education in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona allows you to delay formal instruction until age 8 if you note this on your affidavit. The standard compulsory attendance age is 6-16.
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