Homeschooling offers families a flexible and legally supported pathway to educate their children outside of traditional public or private school systems. Whether driven by academics, personal values or other needs, parents have many options in how they can structure their homeschool programs. This post outlines the legal framework, available options, and key considerations for those exploring homeschooling in the Lone Star State.

Legal Stuff

Texas is considered one of the most homeschool-friendly states in the U.S., with minimal regulatory oversight. Homeschools are legally recognized as private schools under Texas Education Code §25.086(a)(1), which exempts students from compulsory attendance laws if they are enrolled in a private or homeschool setting.

To be compliant, a homeschool in Texas must:

• Be conducted in a bona fide manner (i.e., not a sham or subterfuge).
• Use a written curriculum that includes reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and good citizenship.

There is no requirement to register with the state, obtain approval, or submit curriculum plans. Parents are not required to hold teaching credentials, and there is no mandated testing or reporting.  Although Texas does not mandate recordkeeping, it is strongly recommended that homeschool families maintain:

• Attendance logs
• Curriculum outlines
• Samples of student work
• Transcripts (especially for high school students)
• Standardized test scores (if applicable)

These records can be useful for college admissions, transferring to a traditional school, or meeting requirements in other states if the family relocates. In Texas, homeschooling does not qualify for state funding or vouchers.  Truancy laws still apply if a child is not enrolled in a public, private, or homeschool program, so families withdrawing a child from public school should submit a formal letter of intent (to homeschool the child) to avoid truancy issues.

Currently, families are responsible for setting their own graduation requirements. Parents may issue a homeschool diploma and create a transcript. Homeschool graduates are eligible to apply to colleges, enlist in the military, or enter the workforce. Most Texas colleges accept homeschool transcripts and may require SAT/ACT scores or additional documentation.

It’s Your Decision

Homeschooling in Texas is a legally viable and highly customizable option for families seeking alternative education pathways. While the state imposes few restrictions, it’s important for parents to understand their responsibilities and stay informed about best practices. Whether pursuing a traditional curriculum or an innovative learning model, Texas homeschoolers have the freedom to shape their own educational journey.

Resources for Additional Help:

Home Schooling | Texas Education Agency

THSC Home — Texas Home School Coalition – *be careful, religious and political*

Texas Home Educators – A Statewide Homeschool Service Organization for Texas 

Texas Homeschool Laws

89th Legislature Updates