Idaho

Idaho has one of the most minimal homeschool laws in the nation. The state recognizes parents' right to "privately instruct" their children with virtually no oversight.

Key Statute

Idaho Code § 33-202: Children ages 7-16 must be instructed in "subjects commonly and usually taught in the public schools." Parents may cause the child to be "privately instructed by, or at the direction of, his parent or guardian."

Additional Statutes

Historical Context

• 1992: H.B. 502 removed school board oversight of "comparable instruction"
• 2009: S.B. 1017 removed word "comparably" — instruction need not be comparable to public school

The Simple Truth

There is no mandatory process to start homeschooling in Idaho. You simply begin teaching your children.

Recommended Steps

Step 1: Understand the law — ages 7-16 must receive instruction in core subjects.

Step 2: If withdrawing from public school, send a simple letter stating you are withdrawing to provide home instruction.

Step 3: Begin teaching. No notification, registration, or approval is required.

What NOT to Do

Idaho homeschool advocates recommend:

• Do NOT provide more information than legally required to school officials
• You are NOT required to share curriculum, teaching experience, or details
• Providing extra information could set precedents that erode homeschool freedom

What Idaho Requires

The Only Legal Requirements

1. Compulsory Ages: 7-16
2. Instruction in Required Subjects: "Subjects commonly and usually taught in public schools" — Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies
3. Instructional Period: During period equal to public school session (no specific number mandated)

Immunizations

Homeschoolers are exempt from Idaho's immunization requirements. No vaccinations required, no exemption forms needed.

Idaho has one of the strongest dual enrollment laws in the country.

Idaho Code § 33-203

Homeschool students can participate in ANY public school program:

• Academic classes
• Sports teams
• Extracurricular activities
• Band, choir, drama
• Career technical education

Key Features

1. No Academic Classes Required: Don't need to take classes to participate in sports
2. Attendance Zone: Must participate at school in your attendance zone
3. State Funding: Schools receive funding for homeschool participation

Academic Eligibility for Sports

For activities with academic requirements, demonstrate grade-level proficiency through:

• Standardized test (composite in average or higher range), OR
• Portfolio showing grade-level work

Proficiency is valid for current and following school year.

No State Requirements

Idaho does NOT regulate homeschool graduation. Parents determine graduation requirements, required courses, grading standards, and when the student graduates.

Parent-Issued Diplomas

Parent-issued diplomas are valid for employment, driver's license, and college applications.

Recommended High School Credits

For college-bound students, consider:

Driver's License

Youth under 18 need proof of enrollment or graduation. A letter verifying homeschool compliance or parent-issued diploma is sufficient.

Idaho colleges welcome homeschool applicants.

University of Idaho

Homeschool applicants referred to Admissions Committee. Required: application, ACT/SAT scores, homeschool transcript OR description of educational background.

Boise State University

Homeschool students follow "Homeschool/Unaccredited High School" track. Homeschool transcripts accepted.

Tips for Applicants

1. Start early — contact admissions during junior year
2. Document thoroughly — maintain detailed transcripts
3. Take standardized tests — ACT and/or SAT important
4. Dual enroll if possible — college courses strengthen applications
5. Get recommendations — from tutors, co-op teachers, community leaders

Compulsory Attendance Ages

Ages 7-16 — Kindergarten is NOT compulsory.

Special Education

No state policy exists for homeschool special education, but through dual enrollment (§ 33-203), homeschool students may access services. Contact your local district.

Moving to Idaho

You're immediately legal — no action required. Consider keeping records from previous state.

Moving from Idaho

Research destination state's requirements carefully. Prepare documentation even if Idaho didn't require it. Some states have more stringent requirements.

Returning to Public School

Contact school/district, provide any records you have. School determines grade placement. High school credits at district discretion.

Idaho offers maximum homeschool freedom with one of the most minimal regulatory frameworks, combined with exceptional public school access.

Key Advantages:

1. No Notification Required — Simply start homeschooling
2. No Testing — No mandatory standardized tests
3. No Oversight — No state monitoring or reporting
4. Full Sports Access — Dual enrollment law provides complete access
5. No Teacher Qualifications — Any parent can teach
6. No Immunization Requirements — Homeschoolers are exempt

What Makes Idaho Unique

The combination of minimal regulation AND full public school access is rare.

Comparison Table

*Texas requires notification only when withdrawing from public school