Can you homeschool without a degree in California?

No teaching credential is required for a parent running a home-based private school, but the private tutor option requires a California teaching credential.

Homeschooling is legal in California, but families need to choose one of the state’s legal pathways and follow the rules for that option.

Broad overall, though families should provide real instruction and cover the branches of study expected for students of similar ages in public school.

1. 1Check California's notice rule: Yes, in most common homeschool setups. Families using the home-based private school route file a Private School Affidavit each year, while other legal options have different paperwork.
2. 2Calendar the deadline: For the private school affidavit route, file annually between October 1 and October 15. If starting later, families should review the current CDE instructions for late filing.
3. 3Build around required subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Social studies, Other branches of study commonly taught in public school
4. 4Keep records that match the state summary: For the private school affidavit route, keep attendance records, course information, and the basic records required of private schools. Many families also keep work samples and transcripts.
5. 5Plan for testing or evaluation if required: No statewide testing is required for families homeschooling independently through the private school or private tutor routes.
6. 6Use official source links before making a filing or deadline decision.