Updated for 2026

How to start homeschooling

Step-by-step paperwork, withdrawal letters, and a clear day-one checklist, tailored to your state’s exact requirements.

Starting to homeschool is simpler than most parents fear. The actual steps take an afternoon, the rest is curriculum and rhythm. Every U.S. state has its own paperwork, but the underlying flow is universal: (1) decide your legal pathway, (2) file notification if your state needs it, (3) withdraw from public school if applicable, (4) start your first lessons.

Pick your state below for the exact forms, deadlines, and a 5-step plan written for parents who have never homeschooled before.

The 4 universal first steps

Pick your path

Independent, umbrella school, or charter: varies by state.

File paperwork

Letter of intent, NOI, or PSA depending on your state.

Withdraw if enrolled

Send a written withdrawal to your child’s current school.

Start teaching

Begin captures and recordkeeping from day one.

Choose your state

State-specific guides with the exact forms and deadlines you need.

Alabama → Alaska → Arizona → Arkansas → California → Colorado → Connecticut → Delaware → Florida → Georgia → Hawaii → Idaho → Illinois → Indiana → Iowa → Kansas → Kentucky → Louisiana → Maine → Maryland → Massachusetts → Michigan → Minnesota → Mississippi → Missouri → Montana → Nebraska → Nevada → New Hampshire → New Jersey → New Mexico → New York → North Carolina → North Dakota → Ohio → Oklahoma → Oregon → Pennsylvania → Rhode Island → South Carolina → South Dakota → Tennessee → Texas → Utah → Vermont → Virginia → Washington → West Virginia → Wisconsin → Wyoming → District of Columbia →

Document day one with Homeschool Moment

Add a photo, video, voice note or worksheet, get a description written for you, and build a state-compliant PDF portfolio automatically. Free tier, no credit card needed.

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