How to homeschool in Idaho

No notice requiredChecked against official sources October 9, 2026

Idaho does not require homeschool families to notify anyone, register, test, or keep specific records. The law only says children ages 7 to 16 must be instructed in the subjects commonly taught in Idaho public schools. If your child is currently enrolled in school, withdraw them in writing so they aren't marked truant.

Homeschooling in Idaho at a glance: no notice of intent required; instruction time: not specified; 1 required subject areas; testing: none required.

Requirements in Idaho

Private instruction at home · Idaho Code § 33-202

A parent or guardian provides instruction at home. There is no notice, approval, testing, or teacher qualification requirement. Instruction should cover the subjects commonly and usually taught in Idaho public schools.

Notice
Not required.
Instruction time
Not specified.
Required subjects
  • Subjects commonly and usually taught in the public schools of Idaho (no list given).
Records to keep
  • None required (keeping attendance and a summary of subjects taught is a good idea).
Testing / evaluation
None required.
Parent qualifications
None.

Checklist

  • Withdraw your child from their current school in writing (if enrolled): before you begin homeschooling.
  • Teach the subjects commonly taught in Idaho public schools: ongoing, for children ages 7 to 16.

Leaving a public school

Idaho law sets no specific withdrawal procedure. If your child is enrolled, send the school a written notice that you are withdrawing them to homeschool so the absence is not treated as truancy.

Common questions about homeschooling in Idaho

Do I have to notify anyone to homeschool in Idaho?
No. Idaho doesn't require a notice of intent for this option. If your child is enrolled in a public school, withdraw them in writing first.
What subjects do I have to teach in Idaho?
Idaho requires: Subjects commonly and usually taught in the public schools of Idaho (no list given).
How many days or hours of homeschool does Idaho require?
Not specified.
Are standardized tests or evaluations required in Idaho?
None required.
Do parents need a teaching certificate to homeschool in Idaho?
None.
What records should I keep when homeschooling in Idaho?
None required (keeping attendance and a summary of subjects taught is a good idea).

Worth double-checking

  • New in 2025: Idaho's Parental Choice Tax Credit (HB 93, signed February 2025) is a refundable credit for qualified education expenses (reported as $5,000 per student, $7,500 for students with disabilities). News and EdChoice reports say homeschool students qualify; the state's program site lists curriculum and learning materials but we could not confirm the homeschool eligibility wording there. Recipients reportedly may not take part in public school activities. Check myschoolchoice.idaho.gov for current eligibility and the application window.
  • Homeschooled students may be able to dual-enroll in public school classes or activities; ask your local district about its policy.

Sources

This is a plain-language summary to help you get organized, not legal advice. Laws and forms change, so confirm the details with your state or school district before you file.