Low regulation

Homeschool Laws in South Dakota

South Dakota requires only annual notice and minimal records — a 2021 reform dropped most prior requirements.

Yes, homeschooling is legal in South Dakota and the rules are minimal after 2021 reforms. You file an annual Notice of Intent with your local school district by the first day of school (or within 5 days of starting mid-year). The state used to require standardized testing in grades 4, 8, and 11, but those tests were repealed. You cover language arts and math (the two state- required subjects), and keep basic records of attendance and work. No testing, no curriculum approval, no annual progress submissions.

Last verified: May 19, 2026·Re-checked quarterly · Information, not legal advice

Key dates

Notice of Intent
by first day of school year

Where this comes from

What you need to do

  • Annual Notice of Intent to local school district
  • Required subjects: language arts + math (just those two)
  • Standardized testing was repealed in 2021 — no longer required
  • Keep attendance records and work samples for your own use
  • No state curriculum approval, no annual reports

We handle the paperwork

SD got much simpler in 2021. The annual notice is the only state interaction now. We'll handle it.

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Where South Dakota ranks

26states share South Dakota's regulation level

Across the 50 states + DC, the homeschool-regulation breakdown is:

Low regulation26 states
Moderate regulation18 states
High regulation7 states
Compare all states
Last verified May 19, 2026. We re-check sources quarterly. This page is information, not legal advice — confirm specifics with your local district or a homeschool attorney before filing.
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