Where to request your GED certificate copy
Your GED certificate is held by the state where you passed the test, not by a national office. To get a copy, you contact your state's GED testing program directly — usually the state department of education. Each state runs its own records, so the process and fees vary by location.
Most states let you request a duplicate certificate online through their GED portal, by mail, or by phone. Some charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15), while others provide copies at no cost. A few states require you to request through a third-party vendor they contract with, rather than directly.
The fastest route is usually the state's online portal if it exists. If you do not know which state issued your certificate, check any paperwork you received when you passed, or contact the GED Testing Service at 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) — they can tell you which state administered your test.
Key Takeaways
- Your GED certificate is stored by the state where you took the test, and you request a copy from that state's department of education, not from a national office.
- Most states offer online requests through their GED portal, which is usually the fastest method and takes one to two weeks for delivery.
- Some states charge $5 to $15 for a duplicate certificate, while others provide copies free; fees and processing times vary by state.
- If you do not remember which state issued your certificate, the GED Testing Service can look it up by your name and date of birth.
- A few states use third-party vendors to handle certificate requests, so you may need to go through a contractor rather than the state directly.
Finding your state's GED program contact information
The GED Testing Service maintains a directory of state GED programs on its website at ged.com. Go to the "Contact Us" or "State Programs" section and select your state. The page will list the phone number, mailing address, and website for your state's GED office.
If you cannot locate your state's program through ged.com, call the GED Testing Service directly at 1-877-392-6433. They can provide the correct contact details and tell you whether your state handles requests online, by mail, or by phone.
Requesting online through your state's portal
Most states now offer online certificate requests. Log into your state's GED portal using the same credentials you used to register for the test — usually your email address and password. Look for a section labeled "Order Certificate," "Request Records," or "Duplicate Certificate."
You will typically need to confirm your name, date of birth, and the year you passed the test. Some states ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or uploading a photo ID. After you submit the request, the state will send the certificate by mail within one to three weeks.
Keep the confirmation number or receipt from your online request. If the certificate does not arrive within the stated timeframe, you can use this number to check the status or file a follow-up inquiry.
Requesting by mail or phone
If your state does not offer online requests, you can mail a written request to your state's GED office. Include your full name, date of birth, the year you passed the test, and your current mailing address. Some states require you to include a copy of your ID or a notarized signature.
Mail your request to the address listed on your state's GED program website. Include a check or money order if your state charges a fee — do not send cash. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks after the office receives your request.
Alternatively, call your state's GED office directly. A staff member can process your request over the phone and may be able to tell you the exact fee and expected delivery date. Some states accept payment by credit card over the phone, which speeds up the process.
What to do if you cannot find your test records
If your state's office cannot locate your GED test records, ask them to search by your full name, date of birth, and the approximate year you took the test. Records are sometimes filed under a maiden name, a nickname, or a slightly different spelling of your name.
If the state still cannot find your records, ask whether you can retake the test or whether they offer a letter of completion instead of a certificate. Some states will issue a document confirming you passed the GED even if the original certificate cannot be located. This letter may be accepted by employers or schools in place of the certificate itself.
Fees and processing times by request method
| Request Method | Typical Fee | Processing Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online portal | $5–$15 (varies by state) | 1–3 weeks | Fastest option; works if you remember your login |
| Phone | $5–$15 (varies by state) | 1–2 weeks | when ready confirmation; can pay by card |
| $5–$15 (varies by state) | 2–4 weeks | No internet access; can include supporting documents | |
| Third-party vendor (if required) | $10–$25 (higher than state) | 1–3 weeks | Only option in states that contract out certificate services |
Using your duplicate certificate
A duplicate GED certificate is identical to the original and is accepted by employers, colleges, and government agencies. You do not need to explain that it is a replacement — the certificate itself carries no mark indicating it is a duplicate.
If you need the certificate for a job or school, ask the employer or institution whether they need the original or whether a copy is acceptable. Many will take a photocopy or a digital image. If they require an official document, the duplicate you order from your state counts as official.
Keep your duplicate certificate in a safe place. If you lose it again, you can order another copy using the same process — your state keeps the records indefinitely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a duplicate GED certificate?
Online requests usually take one to three weeks. Phone requests take one to two weeks. Mail requests take two to four weeks after the office receives your letter. Times vary by state and by how busy the office is at the time you request.
Can I get my GED certificate if I took the test in a different state than where I live now?
Yes. You request the certificate from the state where you took the test, not from your current state of residence. Contact that state's GED program using the directory on ged.com.
What if I do not remember my login for the online portal?
Use the "Forgot Password" link on your state's GED portal to reset it. You will need access to the email address you used when you registered for the test. If you cannot recover your login, call your state's GED office and request a certificate by phone instead.
Is there a fee to get a duplicate GED certificate?
Most states charge $5 to $15 for a duplicate certificate. A few states provide copies at no cost. Check your state's GED program website or call to confirm the fee before you submit your request.
Can someone else request my GED certificate for me?
Most states require you to request your own certificate or to provide written authorization if someone else requests it on your behalf. Some states accept a notarized letter of permission. Call your state's GED office to ask what documentation they need if you want someone else to handle the request.