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Last updated: January 2026 · Approx. 6 minute read

By Sarah Mitchell · Reviewed by Amanda Chen, Esq. · Last reviewed: January 2026

Moderate regulation

Homeschool Laws in Washington (2026)

Washington requires annual notification, parent qualifications, and annual testing or evaluation.

Quick facts at a glance

Compulsory Age
8 to 18
Notification
Submit a Declaration of Intent to your local superintendent by September 15 each…
Required Hours/Days
Average of 1,000 hours per year (varies by grade)
Evaluation Required
Annual standardized test or assessment by a certified teache…

Notification & registration

Submit a Declaration of Intent to your local superintendent by September 15 each year (or within 2 weeks of starting).

Required subjects in Washington

Washington requires homeschool families to cover the following subject areas:

Hours & days of instruction

Average of 1,000 hours per year (varies by grade)

Evaluations & testing

Annual standardized test or assessment by a certified teacher. Results retained by parent.

Recordkeeping requirements

Maintain test results, immunization, and academic records.

Tip: Homeschool Moment automatically organises every learning moment with a date, AI-written description, and subject tags — producing a portfolio-ready PDF that satisfies most state recordkeeping rules.

Legal homeschool options in Washington

How to start homeschooling in Washington

  1. Confirm parent qualifications (45 college credits, complete a Parent Qualifying Course, or work with a certified teacher).
  2. Submit Declaration of Intent by September 15.
  3. Submit a withdrawal letter to your child's public school if applicable.
  4. Plan curriculum across all 11 subject areas.
  5. Complete annual standardized test or teacher assessment.

Read the full step-by-step start guide for Washington →

Notes & nuances

The Parent Qualifying Course is a one-time training accepted in lieu of college credits.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Washington homeschool declaration due?

By September 15 each year, or within 2 weeks of starting.

Does Washington require parent qualifications?

Yes — 45 college credits, a Parent Qualifying Course, or working with a certified teacher.

What subjects does Washington require?

11 subjects including reading, writing, math, science, social studies, history, health, occupational education, and art/music appreciation.

Disclaimer: This page summarises commonly known Washington homeschool requirements as of 2026. Laws change. For official, up-to-date legal guidance, consult the HSLDA state guide or your state Department of Education before withdrawing your child or filing paperwork. Homeschool Moment is an educational documentation app, not legal counsel.

Make Washington compliance effortless

Capture moments in 10 seconds, let AI write the descriptions, and generate Washington-friendly portfolio PDFs at year-end.

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