How can a 17-year-old move out of their home in California?

Emancipation

- File a petition for emancipation. This is the legal process of becoming independent from your parents. You can file a petition for emancipation if you are at least 16 years old and can show that you are able to support yourself financially and make responsible decisions.

- Fill out a petition. The petition must include your name, age, address, and the reasons why you want to be emancipated. You will also need to attach a copy of your birth certificate and proof of income and residency.

- File the petition. You can file the petition at the superior court in the county where you live. There is a filing fee, which is currently $450.

- Attend a court hearing. A judge will review your petition and decide whether or not to emancipate you. You will need to testify in court and explain why you want to be emancipated. You may also need to present evidence of your financial independence and responsible decision-making.

Extended Foster Care

- If you meet certain criteria, you can stay in foster care until you are 21 as a dependent youth instead of 18.

Guardianship

- Appoint a guardian that is not your parents. This could be a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or another adult.