How to start homeschooling in Washington

Everything you need to legally begin homeschooling in Washington, broken into clear steps. Plan to spend about an hour completing the paperwork before your first day.

The short version

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

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Confirm parent qualifications (45 college credits, complete a Parent Qualifying Course, or work with a certified teacher).

Step 2

Submit Declaration of Intent by September 15.

Step 3

Submit a withdrawal letter to your child's public school if applicable.

Step 4

Plan curriculum across all 11 subject areas.

Step 5

Complete annual standardized test or teacher assessment.

Things that help on day one

A binder, folder, or app to keep paperwork in one place.
Your child's most recent report card or academic records.
A simple weekly rhythm sketched out — even one bullet list of subjects per day.
A camera or phone for documenting the first weeks of moments.
A list of any homeschool co-ops, libraries, or community groups in your area.

Disclaimer: This guide summarises commonly known Washington homeschool requirements. Laws change. For official, up-to-date legal guidance, consult the HSLDA state guide or your state Department of Education before submitting paperwork.

Read the full Washington homeschool law summary →

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