Georgia Homeschool Laws

Quick Answer To legally operate a home study program (Georgia’s term for homeschooling) in Georgia, parents or legal guardians must:

• Hold (or ensure any tutor holds) a high school diploma or GED.
• File an annual Declaration of Intent with the Georgia Department of Education within 30 days of starting and by September 1 each year.
• Provide instruction in core subjects (reading, language arts, math, social studies, and science) for the equivalent of 180 school days per year, with each day totaling at least 4.5 hours.
• Administer a nationally normed standardized achievement test in reading, language arts, and math at least every three years beginning after third grade.
• Prepare and keep annual written progress reports for each required subject.

Records stay with the family; most are not submitted to the state. Georgia offers one primary pathway under O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690(c), with additional opportunities for public school extracurricular participation through the Dexter Mosely Act. This guide walks you through every requirement with practical, real-world guidance.

Last Updated: June 15, 2026

Introduction: Understanding Georgia’s Balanced Approach to Home Education

Georgia has created a clear, structured framework for families who choose to educate their children at home. Referred to in state law as a “home study program,” homeschooling is a well-established and respected option. The requirements provide defined expectations—annual filing, core subjects, instructional time, periodic testing, and progress documentation—while still giving parents significant freedom in curriculum, scheduling, and teaching methods.

In my experience working with Georgia homeschool families over the years, this structure actually helps many parents feel more confident. The rules are straightforward enough that diligent families rarely run into compliance issues, yet they leave room for creativity, field trips, online learning, co-ops, and interest-led exploration. One mother I advised described it as “guardrails that keep us on track without boxing us in.”

Whether you are withdrawing a child from public school, transitioning from another state, or just beginning to explore options for your young learner, understanding the exact legal landscape is the first step toward a successful, low-stress experience. This comprehensive guide draws directly from Georgia statutes, official Department of Education guidance, and practical insights from families who navigate these requirements every day.

The Legal Foundation: O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690(c)

Georgia’s home study law is found in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690(c). It outlines the qualifications, reporting, instructional standards, and accountability measures that apply to home study programs. The Georgia Department of Education (GADOE) has a deliberately limited role—primarily collecting and maintaining the annual Declaration of Intent. Unlike some states with multiple pathways, Georgia offers one main statutory route for parent-directed home education.

Compulsory school attendance applies to children between their 6th and 16th birthdays. Once you begin a home study program, you must continue filing the Declaration of Intent each year until the child turns 16 or completes the program.

Who Can Teach? Qualifications for Parents and Tutors

Georgia requires that the person primarily responsible for instruction—the teaching parent, guardian, or any hired tutor—possess at least a high school diploma or GED. This is a straightforward qualification that most families meet easily. You do not need a college degree or teaching certificate.

Practical note: If you plan to use tutors for specific subjects (for example, a math specialist or music instructor), ensure they also meet the diploma/GED requirement. Many families combine parent-led instruction with occasional tutors or co-op classes without issue.

Step-by-Step: How to Comply with Georgia’s Home Study Requirements

1. File the Annual Declaration of Intent (DOI)

This is the primary way Georgia tracks home study programs. You must submit a Declaration of Intent to the Georgia Department of Education:

• Within 30 days after you begin homeschooling.
• And every year by September 1 thereafter for as long as you continue.

The DOI must include:

• Names and ages of each student.
• Location/address of the home study program.
• The local school system in which the program is located.
• The 12-month period you consider your school year.

How to file: The easiest and most recommended method is the online submission portal on the GADOE website, which provides an immediate confirmation code. You can also download a printable form and submit by fax or mail. Retain a copy of your confirmation for your records—many families find this code useful when interacting with other state agencies (driver’s licenses, work permits, etc.).

Real-world tip: Set a recurring calendar reminder for early August. Filing early avoids the September 1 rush and gives you peace of mind.

2. Provide Required Instruction: Days, Hours, and Subjects

Your home study program must deliver the equivalent of:

• 180 school days per year.
• At least 4.5 hours of instruction per school day (unless the child is physically unable to participate).

A “school day” can be flexible. Many families combine traditional seatwork with field trips, science experiments, nature study, library visits, educational videos, and co-op classes. The key is documenting that the time adds up to the required hours across the year.

Required subjects (the law says “a basic academic educational program which includes, but is not limited to”):

• Reading
• Language arts
• Mathematics
• Social studies
• Science

You have full freedom to choose curriculum, add electives, incorporate religious studies, foreign languages, arts, physical education, or career exploration. The “but not limited to” language gives families room to create rich, well-rounded programs.

Experience insight: Families who treat the 4.5-hour requirement as an average across the week rather than a rigid daily minimum often feel less pressure. A longer day on Monday can be balanced by a lighter, project-based day on Friday. Keeping a simple daily log (even a quick note in a planner) makes year-end reporting much easier.

3. Administer Periodic Standardized Testing

Beginning after your child completes third grade (or reaches an equivalent level), you must administer a nationally normed standardized achievement test in reading, language arts, and mathematics at least once every three years.

Popular options among Georgia families include the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS), Stanford Achievement Test, California Achievement Test (CAT), or Woodcock-Johnson. The test can be administered by a qualified person—often a parent, tutor, or testing service. Some families use online proctored options.

Important details:

• You keep the results in your personal records.
• You are not required to submit scores to the Georgia Department of Education or your local school district as a routine matter.
• The purpose is to document progress at a level commensurate with the child’s ability.

Practical advice: Many parents schedule testing in the spring of the required years so results can inform the next year’s planning. If scores reveal areas of concern, you have time to adjust instruction before the next testing cycle.

4. Prepare and Maintain Annual Progress Reports

At the end of each school year, write a brief report summarizing your child’s progress in each of the five required subjects. These reports stay in your files for at least three years. They do not need to be submitted to any government agency.

A typical progress report might include:

• Brief narrative description of what was covered in each subject.
• Notable achievements, projects, or milestones.
• Any challenges addressed and how they were handled.
• Overall assessment of progress.

Pro tip from families I’ve worked with: Create a simple template in Google Docs or a word processor at the beginning of the year. Jot quick notes throughout the year—photos of projects, reading lists, math concepts mastered—and the end-of-year report practically writes itself. This also creates a wonderful keepsake of your child’s educational journey.

5. Record Keeping Best Practices

While Georgia does not require you to submit attendance records or portfolios, strong record-keeping protects you and supports your child’s future needs (transcripts, college applications, driver’s licenses, etc.). Recommended records include:

• Attendance log (simple calendar or spreadsheet).
• Progress reports (3+ years).
• Standardized test results.
• Samples of student work, reading lists, and project documentation.
• Copies of your annual Declarations of Intent and confirmation codes.

Digital organization (scans, cloud folders organized by year and subject) has become standard for many Georgia homeschoolers and makes everything searchable and portable.

Public School Access: The Dexter Mosely Act

Georgia’s Dexter Mosely Act (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-319.6) gives home study students the right to participate in extracurricular activities, interscholastic sports, and certain classes at their resident public school, provided specific conditions are met. These typically include prior notification to the district (often 30 days before the semester), proof of academic progress, and meeting the same eligibility standards as enrolled students.

This option has been a game-changer for families who want the benefits of team sports, band, or advanced classes while maintaining a home-centered education. Check with your local school system for their specific implementation procedures.

Special Situations and Considerations

High School, Transcripts, and College Parents issue diplomas and create transcripts. Strong portfolios, test scores, dual enrollment, and extracurricular involvement strengthen college applications. Georgia homeschool graduates are routinely accepted at colleges and universities across the country and within the state.

Special Needs and Gifted Learners The law does not restrict curriculum or methods. Many families successfully use accommodations, therapies, and specialized curricula. Some access evaluations or services through local school systems on a limited basis.

Moving to or from Georgia If moving into Georgia, file your first Declaration of Intent within 30 days of establishing residency and beginning your program. If moving out, simply stop filing once you are no longer a Georgia resident (and comply with your new state’s laws).

Immunizations and Health Home study students are generally not subject to school immunization requirements unless participating in certain public school programs or activities.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Missing the September 1 annual filing deadline (set reminders and file early).
• Under-documenting instructional hours or progress (a simple daily or weekly log prevents end-of-year stress).
• Assuming test results or progress reports must be sent to the state (they stay in your files unless specifically requested).
• Neglecting to keep records for at least three years (especially important for high school transcripts).
• Overlooking the Dexter Mosely Act notification deadlines if your child wants to participate in public school activities.

Resources and High-Authority Support

• Georgia Department of Education Home School Page: https://gadoe.org/parent-family-resources/home-school/ — Official information and online Declaration of Intent submission.
• HSLDA Georgia Page: https://hslda.org/legal/georgia — Detailed compliance guidance and legal protection for members.
• Georgia Home Education Association (GHEA): https://ghea.org/georgia-law/ — Excellent parent-to-parent support, law summaries, and community resources.
• Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 20-2-690: Primary legal text governing home study programs.

Local homeschool groups, co-ops, and Facebook communities specific to your county or region are also invaluable for practical advice and encouragement.

Conclusion: Building a Strong Home Study Program with Confidence

Georgia’s homeschool laws strike a practical balance between accountability and parental freedom. The annual Declaration of Intent, defined instructional expectations, periodic testing, and progress documentation create a clear roadmap that thousands of families follow successfully each year. While the requirements demand consistent organization, they also provide structure that many parents appreciate—especially when planning for high school and beyond.

The families who thrive in Georgia are those who view these obligations as helpful frameworks rather than obstacles. They keep simple, consistent records, choose curriculum and methods that fit their children, and lean on supportive communities. Whether your goal is academic excellence, character development, faith integration, or simply more family time, Georgia’s system supports your right to direct your child’s education.

Start by reviewing the official GADOE resources, filing your first Declaration of Intent if you haven’t already, and connecting with experienced Georgia homeschoolers. With thoughtful planning and steady implementation, you can build a rich, compliant, and joyful educational experience for your children.

You are not alone on this journey Georgia’s homeschool community is active, knowledgeable, and ready to welcome you.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a teaching certificate to homeschool in Georgia?

No. You only need a high school diploma or GED for the teaching parent or any tutor.

Q: How many hours per day must we homeschool?

The equivalent of at least 4.5 hours per school day across 180 days per year. Flexibility in how you structure days is allowed.

Q: What subjects are required?

Reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science. You may teach additional subjects freely.

Q: Do I have to submit test scores or progress reports to the state?

No. Keep them in your personal files for at least three years. They are not routinely submitted.

Q: When do I have to start standardized testing?

At least every three years after your child completes third grade (or equivalent).

Q: Can my child play sports or join public school activities?

Yes, under the Dexter Mosely Act, with proper notification and eligibility compliance.

Q: Is the Declaration of Intent filed every year?

Yes. File within 30 days of starting and by September 1 annually thereafter.

Q: What happens if I miss the filing deadline?

Contact GADOE promptly. Consistent compliance is expected; late filings can create complications.

Q: Can I use online curriculum or co-ops?

Absolutely. These count toward instructional time and subject requirements when they align with the law.

Q: How do I create transcripts for high school?

Parents maintain records and issue transcripts. Many use templates or services aligned with college expectations.