What the GED test is and how it works

The GED is a high school equivalency test administered in the United States and some Canadian provinces. Passing it shows that you have high school-level knowledge in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. The test is computer-based and takes about seven and a half hours total, split across multiple sessions.

You do not need to attend classes to take the GED—you can study on your own, through free online resources, or in a classroom program. The test itself costs money to register for, and the amount varies by state and testing center. Most states charge between $30 and $150 per subject area you test.

When you pass, you receive an official GED certificate from your state's Department of Education. This certificate is recognized by employers, colleges, and the military as equivalent to a high school diploma.

Key Takeaways

  • The GED is a computer-based test covering five subjects: reading, writing, math, science, and social studies, and you can take it at any age.
  • You must register through your state's official GED testing website or a local testing center before you can sit for the exam.
  • Test fees vary by state but typically range from $30 to $150 per subject, and some community colleges and libraries offer free or low-cost prep classes.
  • You can take the test in English or Spanish, and some states offer it in other languages as well.
  • After you pass all five subjects, your state's Department of Education issues your official GED certificate, which usually arrives within two to four weeks.

Finding your state's official GED testing website

Each state runs its own GED program through its Department of Education. The official GED website (ged.com) has a state locator tool where you enter your state and it shows you the exact website and phone number for your state's GED program.

Do not register through a private test prep company or a third-party site—only register through your state's official testing center or the state's GED portal. Private sites may charge extra fees or give you incorrect information about test dates and locations.

When you visit your state's site, you will find a list of testing centers near you, the current registration fee, and the dates when tests are offered. Some states allow you to register online; others require you to call or visit a testing center in person.

What you need to bring to the test

You will need a valid government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID all work. The name on your ID must match the name you used when you registered.

Bring nothing else into the testing room. Calculators, phones, notes, and study materials are not allowed. The testing center provides a calculator for the math section, and scratch paper is given to you during the exam.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Testing centers have strict rules about late arrivals, and you may lose your test fee and registration if you arrive after the exam has started.

Preparing for the test without spending money

Khan Academy offers free video lessons covering all five GED subjects. You can watch lessons on any topic you find difficult, and the videos are short enough to fit into a busy schedule.

Your local library often has free GED prep books you can borrow, and many libraries offer free in-person or online prep classes. Call your library's reference desk and ask whether they have GED prep resources or can connect you with a local program.

Community colleges in your area may offer free or low-cost GED prep classes, sometimes in the evenings or on weekends. Contact the college's continuing education department to ask about current offerings and whether any classes are free for low-income students.

The official GED website (ged.com) has free practice tests and sample questions for each subject. Taking a full practice test under timed conditions helps you understand which areas need more study and how you manage your time during the real exam.

Taking the test in multiple sessions

You do not have to pass all five subjects on the same day. Most states allow you to take one or two subjects at a time and space them out over weeks or months. This means you can focus your study on one area, pass that test, and then move on to the next subject.

If you do not pass a subject on your first try, you can retake it. The number of retakes allowed and the waiting period between retakes varies by state—some allow unlimited retakes with a short wait, while others limit you to three or four attempts per year. Check your state's rules when you register.

Your test results are usually available within 24 hours of finishing the exam. You can view them online through your state's GED portal or by logging into your testing center account.

What happens after you pass all five subjects

Once you pass all five subjects, your state's Department of Education begins processing your official GED certificate. This usually takes two to four weeks, though some states are faster.

Your certificate will be mailed to the address you provided when you registered. You can also request an official transcript or additional copies of your certificate from your state's Department of Education if you need them for a job or college process.

Some employers and colleges ask to see your official certificate or a copy of your test scores. You can read a digital copy of your scores from your state's GED portal when ready after you pass, and you can print it or email it while you wait for the physical certificate to arrive.

Using your GED certificate for work and school

Most employers treat a GED certificate the same way they treat a high school diploma. You can list it on a job process under "Education," and you can use it to meet the high school equivalency requirement for hiring.

If you want to go to college, you can use your GED certificate to explore. Many community colleges do not require a minimum test score and will accept you with just a passing GED. Four-year universities have higher standards—some require a minimum score on the GED test itself, not just a passing score. Check the college's admissions website to see what they require.

The military also recognizes the GED certificate. If you are interested in enlisting, bring your official certificate or a copy of your test scores to the recruiter's office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the GED if I am still in high school?

Rules vary by state. Some states allow high school students to take the GED, while others require you to be at least 16 or 17 years old and no longer enrolled in a traditional high school program. Contact your state's GED program to ask about age and enrollment requirements.

What if I fail one of the five subjects?

You can retake any subject you did not pass. The number of retakes allowed and the waiting period between attempts depends on your state. Most states allow you to retake a failed subject within a few weeks, and you only pay the fee for the subject you are retesting, not all five.

Is the GED test offered in languages other than English?

The GED is offered in English and Spanish in all states. Some states also offer it in other languages such as French or Chinese. Check your state's GED website to see which languages are available at testing centers near you.

How long is a GED certificate valid?

Your GED certificate does not expire. Once you pass the test and receive your certificate, it is valid for life. You do not need to renew it or take the test again.

Can I get my GED records if I lost my certificate?

Yes. Contact your state's Department of Education and request a replacement certificate or an official transcript. There is usually a small fee for this service, and it takes one to two weeks to arrive. You can also read a digital copy of your test scores from your state's GED portal.