Can You Get Your GED Online? [Full Guide 2026]

Yes, in many US states and territories you can!

Like so many things in our lives today, you can get a GED online as easily as you might order a pizza or a new pair of shoes. But like most things that can be done online, it is not the same everywhere.

Of course, the rules are different in each state, and some states still require in-person testing. Make sure you check the rules in your state for what you want to do.

In some states you can study for the GED online with video lessons and mock tests, in many you can also take the GED test online too. Most states set the minimum age to take the GED at 18, but adults of all ages are qualified and welcome to study and test. Double check all the requirements for your state before you start.

Important Information:

• Minimum age for online testing: 18 years old (but check the table to be sure)
• States where you can take and pass the GED test online: This depends on where you live. Not all states offer online testing.
• States where you can prepare for the GED test online: ALL! You can study and prepare online from anywhere.
• Next steps: Check out your state's rules in the table below.

GED Online Testing Requirements by State

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Getting Your GED Online

1. Setting the Stage

Before signing up for a GED test, you have to lay the groundwork.

Step One: make sure you meet your state’s age and can conform to the testing regulations.

Step Two: the practice test. To see where you need to study the most, you should take a practice GED test. Once you see what you need to work on, make yourself a plan. That includes choosing a good work environment, setting a time to study, and sticking to the plan!

Finally, if you are ready to take the GED test online, make sure you have a quiet place to work and a strong and stable internet connection.

2. Should I Take the GED or the HiSET Test?

If you take the GED or the HiSET, you will walk away with an equally valid high school equivalency credential recognized throughout the United States.

The GED test is offered in more places, and there are a few minor differences between the two, but once you have taken it, your diploma equivalent is recognized the same everywhere.

Read more about the HiSET here, and check availability in your state.

3. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements

Even though a lot of the rules are similar for everyone, every state has their own requirements for testing. Besides age or residency rules, the online test has some additional requirements of its own.

In almost every US state, you have to be at least 18 years old to take the test online. There are also some minimum requirements to meet for your computer and internet set up. You can check all these things for the GED or HiSET, depending on what your state uses, before you get going.

4. Take the practice GED test

For GED testing, you first have to take the GED Ready test. This is not needed for online HiSET testing.

You can get a leg up by testing yourself beforehand. Get the free GED practice test and see if you are really ready to start. It will also help you see what to study the most.

5. Get a testing date

You need to register with the GED Testing Service to schedule your online GED test. For HiSET, sign up with the HiSET Testing Service. Be prepared to get in line as there may be a waitlist. Do it early! 

To register, just go to the website for your state’s testing service to get started.

To schedule the test, you’ll need:

• A computer

• A webcam

• A microphone and speaker**

• A private workspace

• Secure internet access and an approved web browser

• A state-issued ID

• A passing GED Ready score*

*Only required for GED
**Only required for HiSET

6. Take the plunge. Take the test.

Your GED test has four subtests – math, science, social studies, and language arts reasoning. The HiSET has five subtests: math, science, social studies, reading, and writing. You can take these tests individually or all together, depending on schedule availability.

You can learn more about what to expect on each subject and get great tips.

Online testing has a few important rules:

• Cheating will not be tolerated

• You must take the test in a private room, alone

• You must stay visible to your webcam

• No food or drink is allowed while testing

• You must be seated at a desk for testing

• Your desk and desk area must be clear

• Dress appropriately

• No scratch paper or handheld calculators are allowed

• No personal items within reach (i.e., smartphone)

• No headphones or earbuds will be permitted

Testing tools provided for you:

Digital on-screen calculator. You can use this for the math subtest and certain science and social studies questions. Make sure you learn how the calculator works and practice with it before testing.

On-screen scratchpad/whiteboard. You can use the digital scratchpad and whiteboard to organize your thoughts or make notes, just like you would regular scratch paper.

Technical assistance from a proctor. If any technical difficulties or problems crop up with the online test, the proctor can assist. The proctor will not help with the test questions.

Can I Prepare for the GED Online at Home?

Studying and getting ready online is the easiest way for you to prepare for your GED test. Studying online means you can work at home or wherever you go. You set your own schedule and pace, and never worry about deadlines. Personalized online learning is the key to making your GED prep simple.

GED Academy makes online learning a walk in the park. Your personalized learning plan adjusts to your progress, like having a guide to take you through the material. Easy to follow online video lessons will provide you with everything you need to know for the test. The GED Academy is certified GED Content Aligned by the GED Testing Service, and HiSET Academy is approved by the HiSET Testing Service.

Sign up now and get your personalized learning plan, taking the next step to getting your GED.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is getting your GED online really legit?

Yes! 100% real. When you take your GED online through your state’s official service, you get a fully accredited and authorized certificate.

How long does it take to get a GED online?

The GED exam itself is about 8 hours long. Once you get through that, you get your scores immediately. The official certificate comes by mail and might take up to three weeks to get to you.

Is an online GED diploma accredited like an in-person exam?

Taking the official GED exam online is exactly the same as in-person testing. You get an official, accredited GED high school equivalency credential. The only thing is to make sure you go through the official testing service of your state and comply with the rules.

Watch Out for Scams! Any kind of third-party testing or online high school diplomas are very likely to be scams and are not accredited.

Can I get it online at home?

Yes! Depending on your state, you can study, prep, and take the GED test online from home or anywhere. Be sure to check your state’s guidelines.

How much does it cost to get a GED online?

GED testing has different costs from state to state. The chart on our GED Costs blog or the testing service’s website can tell you about the costs in your state.

Is there a way to get a GED online for free?

Free high school equivalency testing can be found in some states, like New York. But you have to be a legal resident of those states.

What is the best way to get a GED online?

The fastest route to your GED is taking online GED classes such as Essential Education’s online GED Academy. Prepare for the test quickly or at your own pace using flexible online learning, available round the clock. At the GED Academy you will learn everything you have to know, as many practice tests and questions as you need to be ready, and also coaching to keep you on the path.

Can I get a GED online in Florida?

Unfortunately no. Florida and a few other states don’t allow online GED testing. However, most states do. Make sure to view your state-specific information.

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