North Carolina Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s always essential to consult official sources or legal professionals to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information. Here’s a summary of homeschooling regulations in North Carolina:

• Notice of Intent: In North Carolina, families who wish to homeschool must file a “Notice of Intent” (NOI) to operate a homeschool. This notice should be submitted to the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE) annually.
• Teacher Qualifications: The homeschool instructor must be a parent, legal guardian, or a member of the household and must hold at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
• Record-keeping: Homeschooling families in North Carolina are required to maintain certain records, including attendance records and immunization records (unless a valid exemption is filed).
• Subjects and Instruction: Homeschools in North Carolina must provide instruction in the subjects of English grammar, reading, spelling, mathematics, and good citizenship. However, there are no specific requirements regarding curriculum or testing.
• Testing and Evaluations: Homeschool students in North Carolina are not required to take standardized tests. Instead, families may choose from various alternative methods to demonstrate academic progress, such as a nationally standardized test, an annual evaluation by a qualified individual, or a homeschool standardized test.
• Notice of Intent Submission: The Notice of Intent must be submitted to the DNPE by the first day of the homeschool’s operation or by August 15th of each subsequent school year.
• Access to Extracurricular Activities: Homeschool students in North Carolina have the right to participate in extracurricular activities offered by the local public school district, subject to certain eligibility requirements set by the district.
• Driver’s Education: Homeschooled students are eligible to participate in driver’s education programs offered by the local public school district.

Remember, this is a general summary of homeschooling laws in North Carolina, and it’s important to consult the official sources, such as the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE) or legal professionals, to ensure compliance with the most up-to-date regulations.

Updated October 2023