* State laws: Each state in the US has its own laws regarding compulsory attendance and what constitutes truancy. Some states are more lenient than others.
* School district policies: Even within a state, individual school districts may have stricter policies than the state minimum.
* Reason for absence: Excused absences (due to illness, family emergencies, religious holidays, etc.) are treated differently than unexcused absences. Unexcused absences are far more likely to lead to truancy charges.
To know the specific number of allowable absences for a child, you must check the policies of their individual school district. Contact the school's attendance office or review the school's student handbook.