Moderate-regulation states require homeschool families to show educational progress. This usually involves testing or evaluations, balancing accountability and freedom.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 3.3 million students were homeschooled in the United States as of 2023, representing roughly 6% of the school-age population.
What is a moderate-regulation state?
Moderate-regulation states are in the middle when it comes to homeschool rules. Unlike low-regulation states, which only ask for a notification or nothing at all, moderate-regulation states need families to prove educational progress. This can be through standardized tests, professional evaluations, or both. The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) sorts states into four categories: no notice required, low regulation (only notification), moderate regulation (notification plus assessments), and high regulation (more checks like curriculum approval or home visits). About 12 to 18 states fit into the moderate category, including Ohio, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado, and Washington.
Typical requirements
In moderate-regulation states, families usually have to meet several requirements. First, there's annual notification to the local school district or state education department. Then, standardized testing at set times—often yearly or at specific grades—helps document academic progress. Some states allow professional evaluations instead of testing, where a certified teacher checks student work and growth. Some states also require that homeschooling parents have at least a high school diploma or GED. You might also need to keep records of your curriculum, attendance, and student work samples, but you usually only submit these if asked.
Compared to other regulation levels
Low-regulation states, like Texas, Idaho, and Illinois, only require notification or nothing at all—there’s no testing, curriculum checks, or teacher qualifications. On the other hand, high-regulation states, such as New York and Pennsylvania, have stricter rules, including curriculum approval and home visits. Moderate-regulation states strike a balance. They offer some accountability without over-managing your choices. For many families, this level feels doable. Periodic testing shows progress without constant supervision.
The bottom line
Moderate-regulation states provide a good mix of accountability and family freedom. While testing and notification can be a bit of extra work, they’re usually simple to manage. Keep in mind that requirements can vary by state. For example, Ohio has a portfolio option, while Tennessee focuses on grade-specific testing. Check HSLDA's state-by-state guide to see what you need to do, and don't forget that homeschool laws can change. Always consult your state's Department of Education for the latest info.
