California homeschool requirements
The most common independent homeschool route is to operate as a private school by filing an annual Private School Affidavit (PSA); a private-tutor option and public charter/ISP options also exist.
Program
United States — California · California Private School Affidavit (PSA)
What the California process looks like
1.Establish the program
File the Private School Affidavit (PSA)
File the annual PSA with the California Department of Education during the October 1–15 window (or before starting if you begin midyear).
Withdraw from prior school (if applicable)
Withdraw the child from any current public or private school.
2.During the year
Maintain attendance and course records
Keep attendance records, a list of courses of study, and a list of instructors and their qualifications, as required of private schools.
Teach the required branches of study
Provide instruction in English in the several branches of study taught in California public schools.
3.End of year
Retain records for possible review
There is no state test or evaluation. Retain the year's records and be prepared to produce them on request.
Sources · Last reviewed 2026-07
Take the California checklist with you
The same phases and tasks as a one-page PDF you can print, plus the app that tracks them for you.