Arizona § 15-803 - School attendance; exemptions; definitions
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 15-803 — School attendance; exemptions; definitions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-803. School attendance; exemptions; definitions
A. It is unlawful for any child who is between six and sixteen years of age to fail to attend school during the hours school is in session, unless either:
1. The child is excused pursuant to section 15-802, subsection D or section 15-901, subsection A, paragraph 5, subdivision (c).
2. The child is accompanied by a parent or a person authorized by a parent.
3. The child is provided with instruction in a homeschool.
B. A child who is habitually truant or who has excessive absences may be adjudicated an incorrigible child as defined in section 8-201. Absences may be considered excessive when the number of absent days exceeds ten per cent of the number of required attendance days prescribed in section 15-802, subsection B, paragraph 1.
C. For the purposes of this section:
1. "Habitually truant" means a truant child who is truant for at least five school days within a school year.
2. "Truant" means an unexcused absence for at least one class period during the day.
3. "Truant child" means a child who is between six and sixteen years of age and who is not in attendance at a public or private school during the hours that school is in session, unless excused as provided by this section.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 15-803
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 15-803 cover?
Section 15-803 ("School attendance; exemptions; definitions") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 15-803?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 15-803" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 15-803 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.