Age for 1st Grade in California 2026: Requirements & Laws
In California, the transition into 1st grade is governed by strict Compulsory Education Laws. For the 2026-2027 school year, parents need to navigate the fine line between "eligibility" and "legal requirement" as defined by the California Department of Education.
Is Kindergarten Mandatory in California for 2026?
As of 2026, Kindergarten remains optional in California, despite multiple legislative attempts (like SB 767) to make it mandatory. However, once a child turns 6, California law (EC 48200) requires them to be enrolled in a full-time educational program. This means that while you can skip Kindergarten at age 5, you *cannot* skip school once the child turns 6.
California 1st Grade Eligibility Chart 2026-2027
| Child's Birth Date Range | 2026-2027 Grade Placement | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sept 2, 2019 – Sept 1, 2020 | 1st Grade | Mandatory Enrollment |
| Sept 2, 2020 – Sept 1, 2021 | Kindergarten | Standard / Optional |
| Sept 2, 2021 – Sept 1, 2022 | Transitional Kindergarten (TK) | Universal Eligibility |
2026 Enrollment: Health & Document Checklist
Enrolling a 6-year-old in California requires more than just a birth certificate. To meet 2026 standards, ensure you have:
- Evidence of Age: Certified birth record, passport, or baptism certificate.
- Immunization Records: Must show 5 doses of DTaP, 4 Polio, 3 Hep B, 2 MMR, and 2 Varicella. (California does not allow personal belief exemptions).
- 2026 Oral Health Assessment (AB 2630): Your child must have a dental check-up by a licensed professional no later than May 31st of their first year.
- Proof of Residency: Two current utility bills or a rental agreement.
California 1st Grade FAQ (Deep-Dive)
Can my child start 1st grade early at age 5?
Under EC 48011, a 5-year-old may enter 1st grade only if they have completed a full year of public or private Kindergarten and the school administration judges them as "ready for first-grade work." This is a local district decision and usually involves academic testing.
What if my child turns 6 on September 2nd?
The cutoff is strict. If their 6th birthday is Sept 2, 2026, they miss the 1st-grade deadline by 24 hours. They will be enrolled in Kindergarten for the 2026-2027 year and enter 1st grade in 2027 as a 7-year-old.
Is 1st grade mandatory if we are homeschooling?
Yes. Compulsory education begins at age 6. If you are homeschooling, you must file a Private School Affidavit (PSA) with the California Department of Education to remain compliant with state law.
What happens if we move to CA from a state with a different cutoff?
California generally honors Reciprocity. If your child was legally enrolled in 1st grade in another state (using that state's rules), California districts will usually allow them to continue in 1st grade here, even if they miss the Sept 1st cutoff.
Does my child need a new dental exam if they had one for TK?
No. Under the 2025 update to the Oral Health Assessment law, if your child received a screening during Transitional Kindergarten (TK) or Kindergarten, they do not need to repeat it for 1st grade.