← Back to all states
🦀

Maryland

Moderate

Homeschool legal: ✅ Yes ·Last verified: 2026-03 ·State code: MD

Overview

Instruction days
No minimum requirement
Legal status
Homeschooling is legal in this state
Regulatory body
Maryland State Department of Education / Local School Superintendent (Portfolio Option) / Supervising Umbrella School (Options 2–4)
Official website
https://marylandpublicschools.org

Notice Requirements

Notice required
Yes — notice must be filed
Deadline
Notice of Consent filed with local superintendent 15 days BEFORE starting homeschool per regulation. HSLDA argues this is not strictly enforced and filing on withdrawal day suffices in practice; however, 15 days in advance is the regulatory standard. Annual verification of continued participation required.
Frequency
Annual — must re-file each school year
Reporting
Required (annually)

Assessment Requirements

Assessment required
No — assessment is optional

Curriculum & Qualifications

Required subjects
MathematicsEnglishSocial studiesScienceArtMusicHealthPhysical education
Teacher qualifications
No specific teaching credentials required
Portfolio
Portfolio must be maintained and may be reviewed

Additional Notes

Maryland is a moderate-regulation state with a uniquely strong church umbrella school culture. Many families choose umbrella options (Options 2–4) to avoid superintendent portfolio reviews. The MHEA (Maryland Home Education Association, mhea.com) and CHESA (Christian Home Educators of Maryland) are major advocacy groups. The Notice of Consent form should be filed BEFORE starting to maintain technical compliance. Compulsory ages: 5–18.

Tips for Homeschooling in Maryland

  1. 1

    File your notice on time: "Notice of Consent filed with local superintendent 15 days BEFORE starting homeschool per regulation. HSLDA argues this is not strictly enforced and filing on withdrawal day suffices in practice; however, 15 days in advance is the regulatory standard. Annual verification of continued participation required.". Set a calendar reminder 2 weeks before to prepare documents.

  2. 2

    No formal assessment is required in Maryland. Consider voluntary portfolio tracking to document your child's progress for college applications.

  3. 3

    Join a local Maryland homeschool co-op or support group. Peer connections help with curriculum sharing, field trips, and social opportunities for your learner.

Open Maryland Checklist →

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations. Always verify requirements directly with Maryland State Department of Education / Local School Superintendent (Portfolio Option) / Supervising Umbrella School (Options 2–4) or a qualified education attorney.