GED Requirements by State 2026: Age, Cost & Online Testing
GED Requirements by State 2026: Age, Cost, Residency & Online Testing
If you are planning to earn a GED® in 2026, one of the first things you need to understand is that GED requirements are not exactly the same in every state.
Your state can determine how old you must be, whether you must prove residency, how much you will pay, whether you can take the GED online, what identification you need, whether GED Ready® is required, and what additional rules apply if you are younger than the standard testing age.
Some states also subsidize GED testing, while others charge different prices for online and test-center examinations. A few jurisdictions have additional high school equivalency requirements beyond passing the four GED subjects.
This comprehensive GED requirements by state 2026 guide explains the major rules you should consider before registering.
You will learn about:
- GED age requirements by state
- Requirements for 16- and 17-year-olds
- State residency requirements
- GED testing costs
- Online GED availability
- GED Ready requirements
- GED testing-center options
- Retake policies
- GED subjects and passing scores
- State-specific high school equivalency requirements
- How to prepare for the GED in 2026
If you are also preparing academically, explore the AIProctoredExams Study Guides and our GED preparation resources for Mathematics, Science, Reasoning Through Language Arts, and Social Studies.
Important: GED eligibility requirements, testing fees, discounts, state subsidies, online-testing availability, and retake policies may change. This guide was reviewed in August 2026. Always confirm current requirements with the official GED Testing Service and your state education authority before registering.
What Is the GED Test?
The GED is a high school equivalency examination designed primarily for individuals who did not complete a traditional high school diploma but want to demonstrate high-school-level academic knowledge and skills.
The examination consists of four separate subject tests:
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Reasoning Through Language Arts
- Science
- Social Studies
Candidates do not normally have to take all four subjects at the same time.
You can learn more about the official test structure through the GED Testing Service test subjects overview.
What Are the Four GED Subjects?
Each GED subject evaluates a different group of academic and reasoning skills.
GED Mathematical Reasoning
The GED Mathematical Reasoning test assesses your ability to understand and apply mathematical concepts.
Important areas include:
- Whole numbers
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Percentages
- Ratios and proportions
- Algebraic expressions
- Linear equations
- Inequalities
- Functions
- Geometry
- Measurement
- Graph interpretation
- Statistics
- Probability
- Word problems
- Mathematical reasoning
Students who need more mathematics practice can use the GED Math preparation course from AIProctoredExams.
GED Reasoning Through Language Arts
Reasoning Through Language Arts focuses on your ability to read, understand, evaluate, and respond to written information.
Important skills include:
- Reading comprehension
- Main ideas
- Supporting details
- Author’s purpose
- Tone and point of view
- Arguments and evidence
- Drawing conclusions
- Making inferences
- Grammar
- Sentence structure
- Written communication
- Evidence-based responses
Prepare with the GED Reasoning Through Language Arts course.
GED Science
GED Science emphasizes scientific reasoning and the ability to interpret information rather than simply memorizing scientific facts.
Topics may include:
- Life science
- Physical science
- Earth and space science
- Scientific investigations
- Experiments
- Variables
- Data interpretation
- Charts and tables
- Scientific evidence
- Cause-and-effect relationships
- Drawing conclusions from scientific information
Candidates can strengthen these skills using the GED Science preparation course.
GED Social Studies
GED Social Studies evaluates your ability to understand and analyze information related to society, government, history, economics, and geography.
Topics commonly include:
- Civics
- U.S. government
- U.S. history
- Economics
- Geography
- Historical documents
- Political cartoons
- Maps
- Charts
- Graphs
- Arguments and evidence
Students should combine content review with regular practice interpreting primary sources, graphs, historical passages, and government-related information.
What Score Do You Need to Pass the GED in 2026?
Candidates generally need a minimum score of:
145 on each of the four GED subject tests.
This means you must independently pass:
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Reasoning Through Language Arts
- Science
- Social Studies
A high score in one subject does not compensate for a score below 145 in another subject.
You can review the official score structure on the GED Testing Service scores page.
GED Score Levels
GED scores fall into several performance ranges.
100–144: Below Passing
A score below 145 means that you have not passed that particular GED subject.
You will generally need to review the weak areas and retake that subject according to your state’s retake rules.
145–164: GED Passing Score
A score of 145 or higher satisfies the GED passing requirement for that subject.
165–174: GED College Ready
Scores in this range indicate a stronger level of academic preparation.
Some colleges may consider these scores when making placement decisions.
175–200: GED College Ready + Credit
Candidates with particularly strong GED performance may qualify for additional consideration at participating colleges.
However, each educational institution determines how it uses GED scores for admissions, placement, or academic credit.
Why GED Requirements Differ by State
Although the four academic subjects are standardized, the GED is administered within state high school equivalency systems.
States can therefore establish different rules concerning eligibility and credential issuance.
GED Rules That May Differ by State
Depending on where you live or plan to test, the state may determine:
- Minimum testing age
- Requirements for candidates under 18
- High school withdrawal requirements
- Parental consent
- Residency requirements
- Identification requirements
- Testing fees
- State subsidies
- Online testing availability
- GED Ready requirements
- Retake waiting periods
- Additional state modules
- Credential issuance procedures
Candidates should therefore check the specific rules for the jurisdiction where they intend to test.
GED Age Requirements
Many states use 18 years old as the standard testing age.
However, younger candidates may sometimes qualify.
A 16- or 17-year-old candidate may be asked to provide:
- Parent or guardian consent
- Proof of withdrawal from high school
- School district authorization
- Adult education enrollment
- Court documentation
- Age waiver
- Proof of hardship
- Other state-specific documentation
GED Residency Requirements
Residency requirements also vary.
Some states require candidates to prove that they currently live in the state.
Others permit nonresidents to test.
This means you should not automatically assume that you can simply travel to a neighboring state and take the GED there.
GED Testing Costs
There is no universal national GED testing price.
Your cost can depend on:
- State
- Testing method
- State subsidies
- Promotional programs
- Retake status
- Test-center fees
Some states significantly reduce the cost for eligible residents.
Online GED Availability
Official online GED testing is available in many states, but it is not available everywhere.
Some jurisdictions:
- Fully participate in online GED testing
- Offer online testing with restrictions
- Require testing at approved testing centers
Check the official GED online testing state directory before planning to test from home.
GED Requirements by State 2026: Quick Comparison
The following table summarizes the ten states covered in the first phase of the AIProctoredExams state GED requirements series.
| State | Standard Age | Residency | Approx. Test-Center Cost | Online GED |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 18 | Required | $36.25 per subject | Yes |
| California | 18 | Required | $41 per subject | Yes |
| Florida | Underage rules apply at 16–17 | Generally not required | $38 per subject | No |
| New York | 19 | 30-day requirement | Free for eligible candidates | No |
| Pennsylvania | 18 | Required | State assistance may apply | Restricted availability |
| Illinois | 17 | Required | $36 per subject before discounts | Yes |
| Ohio | 18 | Required | $36 per subject | Yes |
| Georgia | 18 | Not generally required | $46 per subject | Yes |
| Michigan | 18 | Not generally required for adults | $43.50 per subject | Yes |
| North Carolina | 18 | Not generally required | $26 per subject | Yes |
These figures are provided as a planning guide. Always verify the final amount shown in your official GED account before paying because state pricing and subsidies can change.
GED Requirements in Texas 2026
Texas is an important GED testing state and has specific rules concerning age, residency, testing fees, and online testing.
Texas GED Requirements at a Glance
Texas candidates should confirm:
- Age eligibility
- Texas residency
- Identification
- High school enrollment status
- Testing method
- GED Ready requirements
- Testing fees
Texas GED Age Requirement
The standard testing age in Texas is generally 18.
However, certain candidates who are 16 or 17 may qualify if they satisfy additional state requirements.
GED Requirements for 17-Year-Olds in Texas
A qualifying 17-year-old may need to satisfy conditions involving:
- Texas residency
- Acceptable identification
- High school enrollment status
- Parent or guardian permission
- Other eligibility documentation
GED Requirements for 16-Year-Olds in Texas
Testing at age 16 is more restricted.
Eligibility may involve circumstances such as:
- Court authorization
- State-agency involvement
- Approved educational programs
- Job Corps participation
Candidates under 18 should verify their exact circumstances before scheduling.
Texas GED Residency Requirement
Texas generally requires GED candidates to be state residents.
Candidates should be prepared to provide acceptable evidence of a Texas address or other approved residency documentation.
Texas GED Cost
Current standard pricing is approximately:
Testing center: $36.25 per subject
All four subjects:
$145
Online:
$42.25 per subject
All four online subjects:
$169
Texas may also provide high school equivalency testing assistance to some eligible residents when funding is available.
For current rules, consult the official Texas GED policy page.
Can You Take the GED Online in Texas?
Yes.
Texas currently participates in official online GED testing.
Candidates must satisfy the online testing requirements before scheduling.
Is GED Ready Required in Texas?
For most adult candidates testing at an approved test center, GED Ready is not generally required solely to schedule the examination.
For online testing, candidates must meet the applicable GED Ready requirement.
Texas GED Retake Rules
Retake rules depend on the testing format and number of previous attempts.
Candidates should check their GED account before purchasing another attempt, especially after several unsuccessful attempts on the same subject.
Coming next: GED Requirements in Texas 2026: Age, Cost, Eligibility & Online Testing.
GED Requirements in California 2026
California has its own age, residency, identification, and testing requirements.
California GED Requirements at a Glance
Candidates should confirm:
- Age eligibility
- California residency
- Identification requirements
- Testing cost
- Online eligibility
- Requirements applying to minors
California GED Age Requirement
The standard GED testing age in California is generally 18.
Certain younger candidates can qualify under specific conditions.
For example, eligibility may depend on:
- Age
- Expected high school graduation date
- School withdrawal status
- Supporting documentation
California GED Residency Requirement
California generally requires candidates to establish state residency.
Candidates whose primary identification does not establish residency may need supporting documentation.
Examples could include approved:
- Utility bills
- Lease documents
- Employment records
- Tax records
- Insurance documents
- Vehicle registration
- Other residency evidence
California GED Cost
The current standard price is approximately:
$41 per subject
All four subjects:
$164
The price is currently similar for test-center and online testing.
Can You Take the GED Online in California?
Yes.
California currently offers official online GED testing to eligible candidates.
Is GED Ready Required in California?
Online candidates must satisfy GED Ready requirements before scheduling an official online subject test.
For updated rules, review the official California GED policy page.
GED Requirements in Florida 2026
Florida differs from Texas and California because its residency policies are more flexible.
Florida GED Requirements at a Glance
Florida candidates should pay particular attention to:
- Age requirements
- Underage approval
- Identification
- Test-center availability
- Registration address requirements
Florida GED Age Requirements
Candidates who are 16 or 17 must complete Florida’s required process for underage testing.
This can involve formally leaving the K–12 school system and completing required documentation.
Florida GED Residency Requirement
Florida does not generally require candidates to prove traditional state residency before testing.
However, identification and registration requirements still apply.
Candidates should ensure that the information in their GED account is accurate before scheduling.
Florida GED Cost
Florida currently charges approximately:
$38 per subject
All four subjects:
$152
before applicable retake charges or future pricing changes.
Can You Take the GED Online in Florida?
Florida is currently among the jurisdictions that do not participate in official online GED testing.
Candidates therefore generally need to schedule their tests at authorized testing centers.
For current details, see the official Florida GED policy page.
GED Requirements in New York 2026
New York has several important differences from many other states, particularly regarding age, cost, residency, and online testing.
New York GED Requirements at a Glance
New York candidates should review:
- Standard testing age
- Underage approval
- Residency duration
- Free testing provisions
- Testing-center requirements
New York GED Age Requirement
The standard testing age in New York is generally:
19
Candidates who are 16, 17, or 18 may qualify under specified circumstances after satisfying New York’s age eligibility requirements.
New York GED Residency Requirement
New York generally requires candidates to have been residents of the state for at least:
30 calendar days
before testing.
Candidates should be prepared to provide acceptable residency documentation.
How Much Does the GED Cost in New York?
One of New York’s major advantages is that qualifying candidates currently do not pay the normal GED testing cost.
For eligible candidates:
GED testing is free.
State funding covers the examination.
Can You Take the GED Online in New York?
No.
New York currently requires GED candidates to test at approved testing centers.
New York GED Retake Rules
New York uses stricter retake rules than some states.
Candidates who fail a subject may be subject to waiting periods and annual attempt limitations.
Review current requirements on the official New York GED policy page.
GED Requirements in Pennsylvania 2026
Pennsylvania combines residency requirements with financial assistance opportunities for eligible candidates.
Pennsylvania GED Requirements at a Glance
Important considerations include:
- Minimum age
- Underage waivers
- State residency
- Testing subsidies
- Online testing restrictions
Pennsylvania GED Age Requirement
The standard testing age is generally:
18
Candidates who are 16 or 17 may need an approved age waiver before testing.
Pennsylvania GED Residency Requirement
Pennsylvania requires candidates to meet its state residency requirements.
Pennsylvania GED Cost and Testing Assistance
Pennsylvania currently provides financial assistance to qualifying residents that can cover GED subject testing under the applicable program.
Funding availability and eligibility requirements may change.
Candidates should confirm the program before purchasing their examinations.
Can You Take the GED Online in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania currently has more limited online testing availability than fully participating states.
Candidates should review their GED account to determine whether online testing is available to them.
For current details, consult the official Pennsylvania GED policy page.
GED Requirements in Illinois 2026
Illinois is especially important because earning a high school equivalency credential can involve an additional state requirement beyond passing the GED subjects.
Illinois GED Requirements at a Glance
Candidates should review:
- Age eligibility
- Residency
- GED fees
- Online testing
- Constitution requirement
- Available testing discounts
Illinois GED Age Requirement
Illinois generally allows testing beginning at 17, although additional conditions can apply.
Certain 16-year-olds may qualify under special circumstances.
Illinois GED Residency Requirement
Candidates generally need to establish Illinois residency.
Illinois GED Cost
The standard price is approximately:
$36 per subject
All four subjects:
$144
before applicable state discounts.
Illinois has periodically offered significant state-funded discounts for eligible candidates.
Illinois Constitution Requirement
Illinois has an additional high school equivalency requirement involving the:
Illinois Constitution Module
Candidates should not assume that passing the four GED subjects alone automatically completes every Illinois credential requirement.
Can You Take the GED Online in Illinois?
Yes.
Eligible Illinois candidates can currently take the GED online.
Online candidates must satisfy applicable GED Ready requirements.
For the latest rules, see the official Illinois GED policy page.
GED Requirements in Ohio 2026
Ohio offers both test-center and online testing and may provide financial assistance for eligible first-time candidates.
Ohio GED Requirements at a Glance
Candidates should check:
- Age
- State residency
- School withdrawal requirements
- Available vouchers
- Online testing eligibility
Ohio GED Age Requirement
The standard testing age is generally:
18
Candidates who are 16 or 17 may qualify after completing additional state requirements.
Ohio GED Residency Requirement
Ohio generally requires candidates to be state residents.
Ohio GED Cost
Standard pricing is approximately:
$36 per subject
All four subjects:
$144
before applicable assistance.
Ohio GED Voucher Program
Qualifying first-time candidates may be eligible for financial assistance toward the cost of testing after completing Ohio’s required educational and career guidance process.
Can You Take the GED Online in Ohio?
Yes.
Ohio currently participates in official online GED testing.
Online candidates must meet GED Ready requirements.
For updated information, visit the official Ohio GED policy page.
GED Requirements in Georgia 2026
Georgia is notable because it generally does not impose the same adult residency requirements found in states such as Texas or California.
Georgia GED Requirements at a Glance
Georgia candidates should check:
- Age
- Underage adult-education requirements
- Testing fees
- Online testing
- Identification
Georgia GED Age Requirement
The standard testing age is:
18
Candidates who are 16 or 17 may qualify, but additional requirements apply.
Georgia Requirements for 16- and 17-Year-Olds
Underage candidates may need to:
- Enroll in an approved adult education program
- Complete required instructional hours
- Complete readiness assessments
- Receive approval to test
Georgia GED Residency Requirement
Georgia generally does not require adult GED candidates to establish state residency.
Georgia GED Cost
The current standard price is approximately:
$46 per subject
All four subjects:
$184
This applies to both test-center and online testing under the current pricing structure.
Can You Take the GED Online in Georgia?
Yes.
Georgia currently participates in online GED testing.
Candidates planning to test online must satisfy GED Ready requirements.
For updated rules, see the official Georgia GED policy page.
GED Requirements in Michigan 2026
Michigan provides relatively flexible residency rules for adult candidates.
Michigan GED Requirements at a Glance
Candidates should check:
- Age
- Age-waiver requirements
- Residency rules for minors
- Testing fees
- Online GED eligibility
Michigan GED Age Requirement
The standard GED testing age is generally:
18
Candidates who are 16 or 17 may qualify through an age-waiver process.
Michigan GED Residency Requirement
Candidates age 18 and older generally do not need to establish Michigan residency solely to take the GED.
However, residency requirements can apply to younger candidates seeking an age waiver.
Michigan GED Cost
Current pricing is approximately:
$43.50 per subject
All four subjects:
$174
Can You Take the GED Online in Michigan?
Yes.
Eligible candidates can take the GED online.
Online candidates need to satisfy GED Ready requirements before scheduling.
Review the official Michigan GED policy page before registering.
GED Requirements in North Carolina 2026
North Carolina has relatively flexible adult residency requirements and comparatively lower test-center pricing than several other states in this Phase 1 group.
North Carolina GED Requirements at a Glance
Candidates should review:
- Age
- Underage exceptions
- Credential requirements
- Test-center pricing
- Online pricing
North Carolina GED Age Requirement
The standard testing age is:
18
Candidates who are 16 or 17 may be able to qualify through the appropriate exception process.
North Carolina GED Residency Requirement
North Carolina generally does not require candidates to be state residents.
However, candidates seeking a North Carolina credential should carefully follow the state’s requirements concerning where their final subject test is completed.
North Carolina GED Cost
Current test-center pricing is approximately:
$26 per subject
All four subjects:
$104
Online testing currently costs approximately:
$36 per subject
All four online subjects:
$144
Can You Take the GED Online in North Carolina?
Yes.
Eligible candidates can currently take the GED online.
Online candidates must satisfy the required GED Ready conditions.
For current information, see the official North Carolina GED policy page.
Can You Take the GED Online in 2026?
Yes, but online GED testing is not available in every state.
Your ability to test from home depends on:
- State participation
- Age
- Identification
- GED Ready performance
- Computer compatibility
- Internet access
- Testing environment
- Other state-specific requirements
States With Online GED Testing
Many participating states currently allow eligible candidates to test online.
Among the states covered in this guide, examples include:
- Texas
- California
- Illinois
- Ohio
- Georgia
- Michigan
- North Carolina
States With Restricted Online GED Testing
Some states participate on a more limited basis.
Online eligibility may depend on current state policies or candidate circumstances.
States Without Online GED Testing
Some states require candidates to use approved testing centers.
Among the Phase 1 states in this guide:
- Florida
- New York
currently do not generally offer official online GED testing.
Because state participation can change, always check the GED online testing availability page.
What Do You Need to Take the GED Online?
Taking the official GED online requires more than simply registering from a home computer.
Technical Requirements for Online GED Testing
Candidates generally need:
- Compatible desktop or laptop computer
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Reliable internet connection
- Supported operating system
- Ability to complete the required system test
Online GED Testing Environment
You should expect to test in:
- A quiet room
- A private environment
- A space free from unauthorized materials
- An area where other people will not interrupt you
Your testing space may be inspected electronically before the examination begins.
Identification Requirements
You need acceptable identification that meets:
- GED Testing Service requirements
- Your state’s requirements
- Online proctoring requirements
Make sure the name in your GED account matches your identification.
GED Ready Requirement for Online Testing
Candidates planning to take an official GED subject online generally need a qualifying Green score on the corresponding GED Ready practice test within the required eligibility period.
The current online testing rules can be reviewed through the GED Testing Service online testing information.
Do You Have to Take GED Classes Before the Test?
In many states, adult GED candidates are not required to complete formal preparation classes before taking the examination.
However, there are exceptions.
When GED Classes May Be Required
Additional educational requirements are more common for candidates who are:
- 16
- 17
- Below their state’s standard testing age
For example, some states require underage candidates to participate in adult education before receiving permission to test.
Why GED Preparation Is Still Important
Even when classes are optional, structured preparation can help you strengthen:
- Mathematical reasoning
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Reading comprehension
- Grammar
- Writing
- Scientific reasoning
- Data interpretation
- Civics
- U.S. history
- Economics
- Test-taking skills
Use the AIProctoredExams Study Guides to organize your exam preparation.
How to Prepare for All Four GED Subjects
Preparing individually for each GED subject can make your study plan easier to manage.
GED Math Preparation
Focus on:
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Percentages
- Ratios
- Algebra
- Equations
- Inequalities
- Functions
- Geometry
- Statistics
- Graphs
- Word problems
Continue your preparation with the AIProctoredExams GED Math course.
GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Preparation
Review:
- Reading comprehension
- Argument analysis
- Main ideas
- Evidence
- Inferences
- Grammar
- Sentence structure
- Writing
- Extended responses
Use the GED Reasoning Through Language Arts preparation course for focused study.
GED Science Preparation
Practice interpreting:
- Scientific passages
- Experiments
- Variables
- Charts
- Tables
- Graphs
- Scientific evidence
- Conclusions
Continue with the GED Science preparation course.
GED Social Studies Preparation
Study:
- Civics
- U.S. government
- Constitution
- U.S. history
- Economics
- Geography
- Charts
- Maps
- Historical documents
- Political cartoons
- Evidence-based reasoning
Combine content review with regular practice questions.
Can You Take All Four GED Tests on the Same Day?
Potentially.
Because the GED consists of four separate subject examinations, candidates can usually schedule subjects individually.
Depending on:
- Test-center availability
- Appointment times
- State rules
- Candidate preference
you may be able to complete multiple subjects in one day.
However, taking all four subjects in a single day can be mentally demanding.
Alternative GED Testing Schedules
Candidates commonly choose to take:
- One subject at a time
- Two subjects per testing day
- Strongest subjects first
- Weakest subjects after additional preparation
A more gradual approach can give you time to review between examinations.
What Happens If You Fail a GED Subject?
Failing one GED subject does not normally mean starting the entire GED again.
You generally retake only the subject you did not pass.
For example, if you pass:
- Science
- Social Studies
- Reasoning Through Language Arts
but fail Mathematical Reasoning, you would usually focus on improving Math and then retake that subject.
GED Retake Waiting Periods
Retake rules differ by jurisdiction.
Some states allow immediate first or second retakes, while additional unsuccessful attempts may trigger a waiting period.
A 60-day waiting period is common in some circumstances after repeated attempts.
Online GED Retakes
Online GED retake rules may differ from test-center rules.
You should verify:
- Waiting period
- Number of allowed attempts
- Retake cost
- GED Ready requirements
- Online eligibility
before purchasing another examination.
Do You Need to Be a Resident to Take the GED?
Not necessarily.
Residency is one of the most important differences among state GED programs.
States in This Guide That Generally Require Residency
Examples include:
- Texas
- California
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Illinois
- Ohio
States With More Flexible Adult Residency Rules
Examples include:
- Florida
- Georgia
- Michigan for many adult candidates
- North Carolina
However, a lack of a general residency requirement does not mean there are no location-related rules.
Some states may have specific requirements concerning:
- Underage candidates
- Credential issuance
- Final testing location
- Identification
- Registration address
Always check the policy before deciding to test outside your home state.
How Much Does the GED Cost in 2026?
The GED does not have one nationwide price.
Testing costs depend on the state.
Examples of GED Costs in Phase 1 States
Approximate current test-center rates include:
- Texas — $36.25 per subject
- California — $41 per subject
- Florida — $38 per subject
- New York — free for eligible candidates
- Illinois — $36 per subject before applicable discounts
- Ohio — $36 per subject
- Georgia — $46 per subject
- Michigan — $43.50 per subject
- North Carolina — $26 per subject
Prices can change, and some jurisdictions provide subsidies.
States With GED Discounts or Free Testing
Financial assistance can significantly reduce the cost of earning a high school equivalency credential.
New York GED Testing Assistance
New York currently funds GED testing for eligible candidates.
This can reduce the direct testing fee to:
$0
for qualifying candidates.
Pennsylvania GED Testing Assistance
Pennsylvania currently provides financial assistance that may cover GED subject testing for qualifying residents.
Funding availability should be confirmed before scheduling.
Ohio GED Testing Voucher
Ohio may provide qualifying first-time candidates with a voucher after completing the state’s required educational and career guidance process.
Illinois GED Discount
Illinois may provide state-funded discounts that substantially reduce the amount eligible candidates pay per subject while funding remains available.
Texas High School Equivalency Assistance
Texas may also provide financial assistance to qualifying candidates through its high school equivalency testing subsidy programs.
Because these programs depend on state funding, eligibility criteria and available funds can change.
How to Get Your GED in 2026: Step-by-Step
Understanding the requirements is only the first part of the process.
Step 1: Check Your State GED Requirements
Determine:
- Minimum testing age
- Underage requirements
- Residency
- Identification
- Testing fees
- Online availability
- GED Ready requirements
- Retake rules
Step 2: Create Your GED Account
Use the official GED website to create or access your candidate account.
Make sure your account information matches your identification documents.
Step 3: Evaluate Your Current Skills
Determine which subjects are strongest and which need more preparation.
Consider completing diagnostic practice questions in:
- Math
- Language Arts
- Science
- Social Studies
Step 4: Develop a GED Study Schedule
Create a realistic timetable.
Instead of attempting to study every subject simultaneously, divide your preparation into manageable sections.
Visit the AIProctoredExams Study Guides for structured exam-preparation resources.
Step 5: Study Each GED Subject
Use targeted preparation for weaker subjects.
For example:
Step 6: Complete Practice Questions
Practice questions can help you identify:
- Knowledge gaps
- Timing problems
- Weak subject areas
- Common mistakes
- Question types that require more practice
Step 7: Take GED Ready When Required
This is particularly important if you plan to take the official GED online.
Step 8: Schedule Your Examination
Depending on your state and eligibility, choose:
- An authorized GED testing center
- Official online-proctored testing
Step 9: Pass All Four Subjects
Earn at least:
145 on each subject
to satisfy the GED passing standard.
Step 10: Follow Your State’s Credential Process
After passing the required examinations, follow your jurisdiction’s procedures for obtaining your official high school equivalency credential and transcript.
GED Requirements by State: Complete Content Plan
AIProctoredExams is developing detailed state-specific guides so candidates can find requirements relevant to where they intend to test.
Phase 1 GED State Guides
The first state guides will include:
- Texas GED Requirements 2026
- California GED Requirements 2026
- Florida GED Requirements 2026
- New York GED Requirements 2026
- Pennsylvania GED Requirements 2026
- Illinois GED Requirements 2026
- Ohio GED Requirements 2026
- Georgia GED Requirements 2026
- Michigan GED Requirements 2026
- North Carolina GED Requirements 2026
Future GED State Guides
Additional guides can cover:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa high school equivalency options
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine high school equivalency options
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- District of Columbia
Where a jurisdiction does not currently use the GED as its high school equivalency examination, the relevant guide should explain the approved alternative rather than presenting outdated GED registration instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions About GED Requirements by State
Are GED requirements the same in every state?
No.
While the four GED subjects and passing-score framework are standardized, states establish many rules concerning:
- Age
- Residency
- Underage eligibility
- Testing fees
- Online testing
- Retakes
- Credential issuance
How old do you have to be to take the GED?
It depends on your state.
Many states use 18 as the standard testing age.
However, some jurisdictions have different standard ages or allow qualified younger candidates to test.
Can You Take the GED at 16?
Possibly.
Some jurisdictions allow eligible 16-year-olds to take the GED after meeting additional requirements.
These may include:
- Parent or guardian consent
- School withdrawal
- Adult education
- Court authorization
- State approval
- Other documentation
Can You Take the GED at 17?
Yes, in many states.
However, you may need to satisfy additional requirements because you are below the normal testing age.
Do You Have to Be a U.S. Citizen to Take the GED?
Candidates should distinguish between:
- Citizenship
- Residency
- Identification requirements
Your eligibility depends on the rules of the jurisdiction in which you intend to test.
Check your state’s official policy if your identification or residency situation is unusual.
Can You Take the GED in Another State?
Possibly.
Some states allow nonresidents to test.
Others require state residency.
You should check the requirements of both your home state and the state where you intend to test before scheduling.
Is the GED Free?
Sometimes.
New York currently provides free GED testing for eligible candidates, while other states may provide:
- Discounts
- Vouchers
- Subsidies
- Financial assistance
Can You Take the GED Online From Home?
Yes, if your state participates and you satisfy online GED testing requirements.
Not every state offers online GED testing.
Is GED Ready Required?
It depends on the testing format and state.
GED Ready is particularly important for candidates planning to take the official GED online.
What GED Score Do You Need to Pass?
You generally need at least:
145 on each of the four GED subject tests.
Do You Have to Pass All Four GED Subjects at Once?
No.
You can generally take the four subjects separately.
What Happens If You Fail One GED Subject?
You normally need to retake only the subject you failed.
State retake rules, waiting periods, and fees apply.
How Long Does It Take to Get a GED?
There is no single required timeline.
Some well-prepared candidates complete the process relatively quickly, while others spend several weeks or months preparing.
Your timeline depends on:
- Current academic level
- Number of hours available for study
- Subjects needing improvement
- Testing availability
- Retake requirements
Which GED Subject Should You Take First?
There is no universal answer.
Some candidates prefer to begin with their strongest subject to build confidence.
Others start with their weakest subject while they have the most study energy.
A diagnostic practice test can help you decide.
Start Preparing for Your GED in 2026
Understanding your state’s GED requirements is the first step toward earning your high school equivalency credential.
The next step is preparing well enough to pass all four GED subjects.
AIProctoredExams provides preparation resources designed to help learners review important topics, practice exam-style questions, strengthen weaker areas, and approach their examination with a more structured study strategy.
Continue your GED preparation with:
- AIProctoredExams Study Guides
- GED Math Exam Preparation
- GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Preparation
- GED Science Exam Preparation
AIProctoredExams is an independent exam-preparation resource. AIProctoredExams is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by GED Testing Service LLC. GED® and GED Ready® are trademarks of their respective owner. State eligibility requirements, fees, discounts, online testing availability, and retake policies may change. Candidates should confirm current requirements with GED Testing Service and their appropriate state education authority before registering.
