Homeschooling in New Mexico
Annual Registration
New Mexico has a straightforward system: Notify the state annually, ensure the teaching parent has a high school diploma (or GED), and provide instruction for the standard school year (180 days).
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
5
required
Notification
Yes
annual
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Register annually with the Public Education Department (PED) by August 1st
- Parent must possess a High School Diploma or GED
- Instructional time: 180 days or 1,140 hours
- Teach required subjects: Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science
Legal Framework
New Mexico Statutes 22-1-2.1 define home schools.
Waldorf schools and kindergartens in New Mexico
The Waldorf Map lists 2 schools and 1 kindergarten in New Mexico, with phone numbers, websites and a map. If you are homeschooling, many run parent-and-child groups, open mornings and fairs that families outside the school are welcome at.
- Santa Fe Waldorf School, Santa Fe
- Sun Mountain Community School, Santa Fe
- Wild Roots Village, Arroyo Hondo
Required Subjects
Curriculum choice is up to the parent.
Reading
Language Arts
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science
Filing Requirements
What to file
Home School Registration
When
August 1 annually. New/mid-year: within 30 days of starting.
Where
New Mexico Public Education Department (PED)
How to submit
Online via NMPED Home School System
What to include
- • Parent/instructor info
- • Student info
- • Attestation of HS diploma/GED
Primary instructor MUST have HS diploma or GED - no exceptions. 180 days/5 subjects (Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science). Must maintain immunization records (don't submit). Sports is discretionary (NMAA allows with district permission). 30-day moving window.
Testing Requirements
Required: No
Frequency: N/A
Grades: N/A
None required.
How to Get Started
- 1
Verify Qualifications
Ensure the primary instructor has a HS Diploma or GED.
- •Locate your diploma or transcript
Tip: You don't upload it, but you must attest to having it. - 2
Register with PED
Submit your notification through the NMPED Home School System.
- •Create an account on the NMPED portal
- •Enter student details
Tip: Keep the confirmation email/document. You need it for dual enrollment or driver's ed.By August 1st (or within 30 days of starting)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓No testing required
- ✓Online registration is fast
- ✓Access to Legislative Lottery Scholarship (if registered)
Cons
- •Parent diploma requirement is a barrier for some
- •Annual registration required
Sports & Activities
**Discretionary / Up to District**. State law does **not guarantee** access. However, NMAA bylaws often allow participation if the district permits (up to 3 classes/activities rule depending on local policy).
Questions about homeschooling in New Mexico
Can I homeschool if I don't have a diploma/GED?
No. The law requires the person providing instruction to have one.
Does the state issue a diploma?
No. Parents issue the diploma. However, you can use a GED or HiSET program if you prefer a state credential.
Can my child play sports?
Yes. Homeschoolers are eligible to participate in NMAA-sanctioned activities in their local district (up to 3 classes/activities).
Get New Mexico’s homeschool checklist, and hear by email when our New Mexico page changes
Leave your email and you’ll get the checklist link straight away. You’ll also be on the list for news when our New Mexico page changes. You can stop the emails any time.
Learning at home?
Starpath’s Waldorf-inspired lessons cover grades 1 to 3, and grade 4 is being added. Sophie, a Waldorf class teacher, wrote the stories, verses and activities for each day. 14 days for $7, then $47 a month. Cancel before the trial ends and you aren't charged again.
Keep your New Mexico records in order
Starpath Records tracks attendance, hours, and work samples, and turns them into the reports the rules expect. Works with any curriculum. New Mexico tools are on the way; join the list and be first in.
Read more
Last updated: 2025-12-17 · NM homeschool law guide