Homeschooling in Georgia
Everything you need to know about the Declaration of Intent and GaDOE requirements.
Georgia is a "moderate regulation" state that requires annual notification and standardized testing, but generally leaves curriculum and instruction decistions to the parent. The process is streamlined through an online Declaration of Intent system managed by the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE).
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
5
required
Notification
Yes
annual
Key Requirements at a Glance
- You must file a Declaration of Intent annually by September 1.
- Parents must have a High School Diploma or GED.
- Standardized testing is required every 3 years starting in 3rd grade.
- Attendance and progress reports must be kept on file.
Legal Framework
O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1 defines the requirements for home study programs.
Required Subjects
Curriculum choice is up to the parent.
Reading
Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Filing Requirements
What to file
Declaration of Intent to Utilize a Home Study Program
When
Within 30 days of starting, then annually by September 1
Where
Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE)
How to submit
Online via GaDOE website (recommended for immediate processing)
What to include
- • Child information
- • Parent attestation of qualifications
Required for driver's license/learner's permit and work permits. Testing every 3 years starting 3rd grade (nationally standardized - keep results 3 years, don't submit). 180 days / 4.5 hours per day. Parent must have HS diploma or GED. **No sports** - GHSA generally excludes homeschoolers (Dexter Mosley Act allows if enrolled in 1 course). Attendance: Monthly reports to state NO LONGER required (old rule removed). **Promise Scholarship**: ~$6,500 for students in low-performing public schools only (NOT universal voucher).
Testing Requirements
Required: Yes
Frequency: Every 3 years
Grades: Starting 3rd Grade
Nationally standardized test required every 3 years.
How to Get Started
- 1
File Declaration of Intent
Submit the official form to the Georgia Department of Education.
- •Create an account on the GaDOE website.
- •Submit the Declaration of Intent form online.
- •Print/Save the submitted form with the digital signature.
Tip: Filing online is highly recommended because you get immediate proof (needed for driving permits, etc.).Within 30 days of start (and by Sept 1 annually)
- 2
Set Up Records
Prepare your attendance log and plan for progress reports.
- •Create a method to track attendance (180 days required).
- •Plan how you will write the annual progress report.
Ongoing
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Online filing is efficient
- ✓Curriculum freedom
- ✓No portfolio review by state
Cons
- •Mandatory testing (even if results aren't submitted)
- •Strict daily hour requirement in statute
- •Parent qualification required
Sports & Activities
Homeschoolers in Georgia generally do *not* have automatic access to public school sports (GHSA rules), though some "Dexter Mosley Act" provisions allow participation under specific conditions (enrolling in one course).
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Free portfolio and compliance tracker tailored to Georgia's requirements. Log learning, track hours, and generate reports, all in one place.
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · GA homeschool law guide