In most U.S. states, a 16-year-old cannot legally drop out of school and independently homeschool themselves without parental consent and involvement. While the specific laws vary by state, generally a parent or legal guardian must be involved in the homeschooling process, including overseeing the curriculum and ensuring the student meets state requirements for homeschooling. A 16-year-old might be able to *transfer* to homeschooling with parental consent, but they cannot unilaterally decide to leave traditional school and homeschool themselves.
It's crucial to check the specific homeschooling laws in the state where the 16-year-old resides. These laws often detail the requirements for curriculum, record-keeping, and assessments. Attempting to homeschool without meeting these legal requirements could result in legal consequences for both the teenager and their parents.