Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in Washington

Here is exactly what Washington requires to homeschool legally — how to notify (if needed), what records to keep, testing rules, and how to get started.

Last updated June 2026

Notice required
Required
Instructional days
Regular instruction
Portfolio
Not required
Testing / evaluation
Required

Washington homeschool requirements

  • Notification: File a Declaration of Intent with your local school district by September 15 (or 2 weeks before beginning). Must be signed by a qualified instructor.
  • Required subjects: No specific subject list is mandated; families typically cover language arts, math, science, and social studies.
  • Teacher requirement: Instructor must hold a teaching certificate, be supervised by a certificated teacher, or complete a homeschool course from an approved provider
  • Portfolio / records: No portfolio is required by the state, though keeping records is recommended.
  • Testing / evaluation: Annual assessment required by a certificated person. Multiple options. Results kept by parent; not submitted to district.
  • Recordkeeping: No retention period is set by the state; keep records organized year to year.

Key dates & deadlines

At the start of the yearFile your required notification with the district or state.
AnnuallyRenew your notification and complete the required assessment.

Getting started in Washington

  1. File your required notification with your district or the state (see requirements above).
  2. Set up simple records: a log of instruction and samples of your child’s work.
  3. Choose curriculum for the subjects you’ll teach.
  4. Plan for the required annual assessment or evaluation.
  5. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Washington?
File a Declaration of Intent with your local school district by September 15 (or 2 weeks before beginning). Must be signed by a qualified instructor.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
Instructor must hold a teaching certificate, be supervised by a certificated teacher, or complete a homeschool course from an approved provider
Is standardized testing required?
Annual assessment required by a certificated person. Multiple options. Results kept by parent; not submitted to district.
How long should I keep records?
No retention period is mandated, but keeping thorough records is strongly recommended.
Track all of this automatically

Beyond My Books logs your Washington instructional days, required subjects, portfolio, and deadlines — and warns you before anything is due.

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This guide is general information, not legal advice. Homeschool laws change — verify current requirements with your Washington department of education or county superintendent.