Can I Legally Move Out at 17?

Is it legal to move out at 17? Emancipation allows minors to live independently, make financial decisions, and take on adult responsibilities. However, they still must follow certain laws like schooling and marriage.

By Douglas Wade, Attorney

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Table of Contents

1. What does emancipation involve?

2. The path to emancipation

What does emancipation involve?

Emancipation is a legal process that allows minors between the ages of 14 and 17 to break free from the control and custody of their parents. They are considered an adult in many respects under the law.

Emancipation grants you the right to do many things that would otherwise require your parents’ consent. You are free to live wherever you choose, for instance. Additionally, you are no longer required to obtain your parents’ approval before applying for a work permit, receiving a credit card, keeping any earnings you make, or enrolling in school.

1. You are no longer dependent on your parents financially

Once you’ve gained your freedom, it’s up to you to provide for yourself. You are now an adult and your parents are not financially responsible for supporting you. Any debts you incur will be your responsibility, and legal action against you is possible.

2. An “emancipated minor” is someone who is not yet fully an adult in all jurisdictions

Remember that you are still considered a child for the purposes of certain laws. As an example, going to school is still mandatory. Getting your parents’ blessing is still a requirement for getting married. You can’t buy or consume alcohol until you’re 21, and you can’t vote until you’re 18. Except in cases of a valid marriage, an adult can be charged with statutory rape if they engage in sexual relations with a minor who has been granted legal independence.

Emancipation is typically permanent. However, if you exaggerate your circumstances or become unable to provide for yourself, the court has the authority to revoke your emancipation.

The path to emancipation

One can achieve emancipation in one of three ways:

Wed in a formal ceremony: Anyone under the age of 18 in California needs both parental consent and court approval to tie the knot.
Serve your country: Both your parents or the military must give their consent if you are a minor.
Obtain an emancipation decree from a court: The process of emancipation involves submitting a formal request (a petition) and having a judge sign a document (a Declaration of Emancipation) that formalizes the decision. You must provide proof that you:
- Are at least fourteen years old.
- No longer are you residing in your parents’ home.
- Moving out is fine with your parents.
- Manage your own finances and take care of your own bills.
- You can earn money in a lawful manner.
- You would benefit from emancipation.

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Can I Legally Move Out at 17?

What does emancipation involve?

The path to emancipation

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