Washington Homeschool Requirements

Washington has moderate homeschool requirements. You'll need to file notice with your local school district.

At a Glance

Ages 8-18

Compulsory attendance

Flexible Requirements

Washington does not mandate specific hours or days

Notice Requirements

Notice is required

You must notify your local school district of your intent to homeschool.

Assessment Requirements

Assessment is required

Type: Parent's choice (testing, portfolio, or evaluation)

Frequency: Annually

Portfolio & Records

No portfolio required

While Washington doesn't mandate a portfolio, keeping records is still recommended.

Required Subjects

Washington requires instruction in the following subjects:

reading writing spelling language math science social studies history health occupational education art music

Additional Notes

Annual assessment required. Declaration of intent required annually by September 15.

Source: Official state requirements · Verified March 2026

Track WA Compliance

Homeschool Fox automatically tracks your hours and progress against Washington's requirements.

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What we track for WA

Subject coverage tracking
Activity log with descriptions
PDF exports for evaluators

Nearby States

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Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschooling in Washington

Do I need to notify anyone to homeschool in Washington?

Yes, Washington requires you to file notice of your intent to homeschool. You must notify your local school district.

How many hours do I need to homeschool in Washington?

Washington does not mandate a specific number of instructional hours. Families have flexibility in determining their own schedule and pace of learning.

Does Washington require testing for homeschoolers?

Yes, Washington requires some form of assessment for homeschooled students. Parents can choose between standardized testing, portfolio review, or professional evaluation.

Do I need to keep a portfolio in Washington?

No, Washington does not legally require you to maintain a portfolio. However, keeping records of your homeschool activities is still highly recommended for your own reference and for potential college applications or if you ever need to demonstrate educational progress.

What subjects must I teach in Washington?

Washington requires instruction in the following subjects: reading, writing, spelling, language, math, science, social studies, history, health, occupational education, art, and music. Beyond these requirements, you have flexibility to add subjects that interest your family.