Compulsory School Age in the District of Columbia

Children between age 5 (by September 30 of the current school year) and age 18 must attend school or comply with the homeschool law.

HSLDA believes that a parent-issued diploma and transcript should be sufficient to demonstrate that a child has completed a secondary education. However, even if your child is beyond compulsory school attendance age, there may be situations where you would want to continue to follow the requirements of a home education option recognized under District of Columbia law until your child graduates from high school (filing a home education notice, keeping attendance and other records, etc.).

These records may be requested in some situations, such as obtaining a driver's license if your child is a minor, enlisting in the military, applying to colleges, or demonstrating eligibility for Social Security benefits.

Please note: The information on this page has been reviewed by an attorney, but it should not be taken as legal advice specific to your individual situation.