Hours / Days
Instruction must be provided for the same number of days as public schools (typically 175-180 days per year)
State Code
CA
Subjects
6 required
Filing Requirements
Private School Affidavit
October 1-15 annuallyFile PSA with California Department of Education annually. Simple one-page form available online.
How to Comply with California's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in California
Legal Classification
Private School (Private School Affidavit)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-18
Available Legal Pathways
Private School Affidavit (PSA)
Most popular option. File an annual affidavit with the California Department of Education establishing your home as a private school. Subjects include English, math, social sciences, science, visual and performing arts, and health.
Private School Satellite Program
Enroll in a brick-and-mortar private school's satellite program where the school provides oversight. Less paperwork but less autonomy than PSA.
Private Tutor
Hire a credentialed teacher. Less common option but offers additional structure and oversight.
Steps to Get Started
Understand the Private School Affidavit (PSA)
California law allows you to establish your home as a private school by filing an affidavit. This is the most popular homeschooling option in California. You file once annually, usually in October, and it covers all your children ages 6-18.
- Only file if your child is between ages 6 and 18
- The affidavit is a simple form confirming you operate a private school
- Filing doesn't require approval—it's just notification
Don't overthink the PSA—it's simply California's way of recognizing home-based private schools.
File Your Private School Affidavit
Access the California Department of Education's online filing system (www3.cde.ca.gov/psa) and submit your affidavit annually between October 1 and 15. The filing window stays open through June 30, so you have time to complete it, but early filing is recommended.
- Visit the CDE website and create an online account if needed
- Complete the form with your home address and children's names
- Submit electronically and receive immediate confirmation
Filing online is faster and gives you immediate confirmation of receipt.
Select Your Required Subjects
California requires that your private school instruction include seven subject areas: English, mathematics, social sciences, science, visual and performing arts, health, and physical education. You have complete freedom in how and what curriculum you choose for each subject.
- English includes language arts, writing, and reading comprehension
- Mathematics covers arithmetic through advanced topics
- Social sciences include history, geography, and civics
- Science covers life, earth, and physical science
- Arts can be visual art, music, theater, or dance
- Health covers nutrition, disease prevention, and wellness
- PE can be taught at home or through community programs
These subjects can be integrated—for example, studying ancient Rome covers both history (social science) and art appreciation.
Choose Your Curriculum and Teaching Approach
California has no curriculum approval process. You can choose any curriculum, textbooks, online programs, or create your own. You can teach traditionally, use classical education, unschooling, or any other approach that covers the required subjects.
California's freedom in curriculum choice is one of its greatest strengths for homeschoolers.
Maintain Records and Evidence of Instruction
Keep records showing that instruction was provided in each of the required subjects. These records don't need to be submitted, but should be kept in case of a request from the Department of Education.
- Keep samples of completed assignments and projects
- Document books read in each subject area
- Save receipts for curriculum and educational materials
- Track attendance and instructional days
- Keep notes on lessons taught and learning outcomes
A simple portfolio with examples from each subject area is good documentation.
Renew Your Affidavit Annually
The PSA filing is annual. You must submit a new affidavit each school year. Mark your calendar for October 1 so you don't miss the filing deadline.
If your filing information hasn't changed, the renewal process takes just a few minutes.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in a California public school, simply file your PSA and begin homeschooling. No formal withdrawal process is required. If you later want to return to public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Homeschooled students may participate in some California public school activities depending on school district policy. Contact your district about sports, clubs, performing arts, or dual enrollment opportunities.
Special Education
California provides services to students with IEPs through the public school system. If your child has special needs, coordinate with your school district regarding available services even if you're homeschooling.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Create subject folders (English, Math, Science, etc.) with samples of work completed
- Keep a reading log of books read in each subject area
- Save receipts for all curriculum and educational materials purchased
- Document field trips, museum visits, classes, and educational activities attended
- Take photos of projects, experiments, and hands-on learning activities
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
No state-mandated testing. Parents choose their own assessment method.
Record Keeping
Required. Maintain attendance register, course list, and instructor list for each subject.
Key Facts About California
Annual PSA filing (October 1-15) is the main requirement
Curriculum should align with public school curriculum
Must keep attendance register and course documentation
No standardized testing mandated
Ages 6-18 must receive instruction
“Every family's homeschool journey in California is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is California's Private School Affidavit?
The PSA is a simple form filed annually with the California Department of Education. It notifies the state that you are operating a private school (which includes homeschooling). The filing window is October 1-15 each year.
What subjects must I teach in California?
California expects your curriculum to align with public school standards, including English, math, science, social studies, PE, and visual/performing arts. However, you have flexibility in how you teach these subjects.
Does California require standardized testing?
No. California does not mandate state-level standardized testing. You can assess your child's progress through your own chosen method.
What records do I need to keep?
Keep an attendance register, a list of courses taught, and documentation of instruction in each subject. These records should be available if questioned about compliance.
Looking for requirements in another state?