GED State-by-State Online Testing Info

Are you thinking about getting your GED but don’t want the hassle of going to a testing center? Good news—you don’t have to. The GED Testing Service now lets you take the entire exam online, right from the comfort of your home. It’s a flexible, convenient option that fits into your schedule and lets you work at your own pace.

Even better, you can prepare for the GED online too. At Prepsaret, we offer study tools and resources made specifically to help you succeed.

Whether you’re testing from your living room or a classroom, our goal is to make sure you feel confident and ready on test day.

GED Online Test

The GED (General Educational Development) test is more than just a credential—it’s a powerful step toward new job opportunities, college admission, and personal achievement.

Recognized by nearly all U.S. employers and colleges, it serves as a high school equivalency for those who didn’t graduate traditionally.

So, why is online testing important?

It removes transportation barriers for those in rural areas
It fits into the schedules of working adults
It supports parents who can’t find childcare
It helps individuals with mobility or health challenges

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about taking the GED test online—state by state.

Can You Take the GED Test Online?

The short answer is yes—but with some conditions. The GED Testing Service offers an online proctored (OP) version of the test, officially called the “GED Test Online.” This option became widely available in 2020 and has continued to expand since then.

The online GED test is identical to the in-person version in terms of content, difficulty, and scoring.

You’ll face the same four subject tests covering Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science.

The only difference is the delivery method—one is taken at home on your computer with online supervision, while the other is completed at an official testing center.

How to Register for the GED Online Test

Getting started with your online GED test is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Create an account on GED.com by clicking “Sign Up”
Complete your profile with accurate personal information
Select “Online” as your testing method during scheduling
Choose your preferred test date and time
Pay for your exam (costs vary by state)
Download the necessary testing software as instructed
Complete the system check to ensure your computer meets requirements

During the registration process, the system will automatically check if your state permits online testing. If you live in a state that doesn’t allow online testing, the system will only show in-person testing centers as options.

The entire process of getting your GED online follows this general path: register on GED.com → prepare for the test → complete a system check → take the test with online proctoring → receive your results → download your credential.

What’s Needed to Take the Online GED Test

Before scheduling your online GED test, make sure you meet all these requirements:

Requirements for Online GED Testing

Computer with webcam, microphone, and reliable internet connection
Quiet, private room where you won’t be disturbed
Clean desk or table with nothing but your computer
Government-issued photo ID
Passing score on the GED Ready practice test (within the last 60 days for each subject)

GED Minimum Age and ID Requirements

Most states require test-takers to be at least 16 years old
Some states have additional requirements for those under 18
You must present a valid, government-issued photo ID
Your name in the GED system must exactly match your ID

You can learn more about specific age requirements in your state by checking our detailed guide on GED Requirements.

GED Online Technical and Testing Environment Standards

Windows or Mac computer (no tablets or Chromebooks)
Webcam with 640×480 resolution
Microphone (internal or external)
Stable internet connection (1 Mbps or higher)
Private room with closed door
No one else can enter during testing

For more details, check out: What Kind of Computer Do I Need to Take the GED Test Online

Cost of the GED Online vs. In-Person

The cost of taking the GED exam varies by state and depends on whether you take the test online or at an approved testing center. On average, the total cost for all four GED subject tests ranges from approximately $120 to $184.

The in-person testing fee typically falls between $26 and $46 per subject, though some states may charge additional administrative fees depending on the testing center.

Online GED testing

Online GED testing usually costs the same or slightly more than the in-person option. For example, in Texas, the online version is priced at $42.25 per subject, totaling $169, while the in-person version costs $36.25 per subject, totaling $145.

While the online option may carry a slightly higher fee, it eliminates the need for travel and offers greater flexibility.

State Subsidies and Waivers

Some states offer subsidies or fee waivers for eligible residents. States such as Connecticut, New York, and West Virginia provide the GED test at no cost under certain conditions. These programs are designed to improve accessibility for individuals who may face financial barriers.

Retake Fees

Retake policies differ depending on the state and the mode of testing. In many cases, states offer discounted retakes for in-person exams, but this benefit does not typically extend to online test retakes. For instance, Texas offers discounted retakes only for in-person tests.

Additional cost to consider

In addition to test fees, other potential costs should be considered. These may include travel expenses if you choose in-person testing, as well as optional study materials or GED preparation courses.

Prices for these resources vary widely, depending on the provider and the level of support offered.

Which States Offer the Online GED Test?

As of 2025, the following states and territories permit online GED testing:

State-Specific Notes and Resources

Some states have unique requirements or benefits worth noting:

GED in Texas: Texas offers vouchers that can cover the full cost of your GED test if you meet certain income requirements. The Texas Workforce Commission provides these funds through local adult education programs.

California: California has one of the most robust support systems for GED test-takers, with numerous free preparation programs available through community colleges.

Alaska: Despite its remote geography, Alaska has worked hard to ensure online testing is available to residents throughout the state, including those in rural areas.

Most states offer accommodations for test-takers with disabilities, including extended time, screen readers, or separate rooms. You’ll need to apply for these accommodations through your GED.com account and provide appropriate documentation.

States that Do Not Offer the Online GED Test

Despite widespread adoption, a few states still do not allow online GED testing:

New York
Puerto Rico: Does not currently offer online GED testing; test-takers must complete the exam in person.
Florida, Massachusetts, West Virginia, Hawaii, and Wyoming: These states do not permit online GED testing and require in-person testing.

Some states have additional verification requirements, such as:

Wisconsin: Requires first-time GED test-takers to attend an in-person orientation before they can take the test online.
Montana: Requires proof of state residency as part of the testing process, but online GED testing is available.
Maine and Iowa: Do not use the GED exam; they use the HiSET exam exclusively, which is generally administered in person.

If you live in one of these states or territories, you will need to visit a physical testing center or use the alternative exam your state offers to complete your high school equivalency credential.

How the Online GED Test Works

Taking the GED test online is a carefully monitored experience designed to maintain the integrity of the credential. Here’s what to expect:

Check-in process: 30 minutes before your scheduled test, you’ll log in and begin the check-in process with OnVUE, the proctoring service.
Identity verification: You’ll take a photo of yourself and your government ID, which the proctor will review.
Room scan: Using your webcam, you’ll show the proctor your entire testing area to ensure there are no unauthorized materials.
Test monitoring: Throughout the test, the proctor will watch and listen via your webcam and microphone. AI monitoring tools will also flag suspicious activities.
Communication: If the proctor has concerns, they’ll communicate with you through a chat box. You can also reach them if you have technical issues.

The testing interface itself is user-friendly, with tools to mark questions for review, a timer to track your progress, and an on-screen calculator for appropriate sections.

Online GED Classes

Beyond just testing, many students benefit from structured online GED preparation. Prepsaret’s online GED classes provide affordable, effective prep materials designed to help you pass. Each course includes clear lessons, realistic practice questions that mirror the actual test, and tools to track your progress.

You can study for each GED subject with Prepsaret, including:

Why choose Prepsaret?

Study at your own pace, on your schedule
Practice questions that look like real exam items
Video lessons and interactive quizzes
Personalized feedback to guide your learning
One low price for high-quality content

Structured prep makes a real difference—students who use guided programs like Prepsaret are more likely to pass on their first try.

Need help deciding if online learning is right for you?

Check out: Taking an Online GED Course vs Going Back to School.

Tips to Pass the Online GED Test

Passing your online GED test requires preparation, strategy, and the right mindset. Here are some proven tips:

Take the GED Ready practice test: This official practice test accurately predicts your performance on the real exam. In fact, you must pass this before taking the online GED test.
Create a study schedule: Plan to study 3-4 times per week for 1-2 hours each session over several weeks. Consistency is key!
Focus on your weak areas: After taking practice tests, concentrate your efforts on subjects where you scored lowest.
Use official study materials: The GED Testing Service and trusted partners like Prepsaret offer high-quality preparation materials aligned to the actual test.
Practice with the calculator: Familiarize yourself with the TI-30XS calculator that’s available during the Math, Science, and Social Studies tests.

If you’re on a tight timeline, our guide on how to pass the GED test in 8 weeks offers an accelerated but effective study plan.

Online GED Exam Rules

Taking the GED test online comes with strict rules to ensure test security and fairness. Make sure you follow these guidelines closely—violations can lead to your test being canceled, your score invalidated, and even a permanent ban from online testing.

Before your test begins:

You must be located within the United States. Online GED testing is not permitted from outside the U.S.
You must be in a private, enclosed room with a closed door—no shared spaces.
You must agree to be videotaped and recorded throughout the entire test.

During the test:

No one else is allowed in the room, for any reason.
You must remain in full view of the webcam at all times.
Do not speak out loud, read questions aloud, or cover your mouth.
No food, drinks, gum, or smoking is allowed, except for water in a clear container.
No breaks are allowed during any single subject test.
Touchscreen features (e.g., on laptops) cannot be used.
You must be fully clothed during the test.

Prohibited items include:

Phones, smartwatches, or any other electronic devices
Headphones, earbuds, or headsets
Notes, books, scratch paper, or calculators (a digital notepad and calculator are built into the test platform)

Important:
Any attempt to cheat or have someone else take the test for you will result in immediate disqualification. All previous GED scores may be revoked, and you could be permanently banned from taking the GED online.

Some students explore shortcuts or workarounds, but we strongly advise against this.

Tools Available During the Online GED Test

The GED Testing Service provides several built-in tools to help you during your test:

Calculator: An on-screen TI-30XS calculator is available for the Math, Science, and Social Studies tests
Formula sheet: Math formulas are provided for the Math test
Flagging feature: Mark questions to return to later
Digital notepad: Take notes during the test
Strike-through option: Eliminate answer choices you know are incorrect
Highlighting tool: Emphasize important information in passages
Contrast adjustment: Change screen contrast for better readability

Learning to use these tools effectively before test day can give you a significant advantage. Practice with them during your preparation so they become second nature.

Check Out: How to Pass the GED Math Test

After the GED Test: Scores, Certificates, and Next Steps

The moment you complete your GED test, the waiting game begins—but not for long! Here’s what happens next:

How and When Scores Are Delivered Online

One of the biggest advantages of the online GED test is rapid results. Most subject test scores are available within 3-24 hours through your online GED account. Simply log in to GED.com to view your scores.

Explanation of Passing Scores and Tiers

The GED scoring system has three achievement levels:

Passing (145-164): Shows high school equivalency
College Ready (165-174): Indicates readiness for college-level work
College Ready + Credit (175-200): May qualify for college credits at participating institutions

The minimum passing score is 145 (out of 200) for each subject test. You need to pass all four subjects to earn your GED credential.

How to Obtain Your GED Certificate or Diploma

Once you’ve passed all four subject tests, your official GED credential is typically available within 24 hours. In most states, you can download a digital diploma immediately from your GED.com account. A physical certificate is usually mailed within 1-2 weeks.

Options After Passing

With your GED in hand, several doors open:

Higher education: Apply to community colleges, four-year universities, or vocational schools
Better employment: Qualify for jobs that require a high school diploma or equivalent
Military service: Meet the educational requirements for enlistment
Career advancement: Seek promotion in your current job

Continue Reading: Top 5 Best Resources for GED Preparation.

GED State-by-State Online Testing Info FAQs

Which States Allow Online GED Testing?

Most U.S. states and territories allow online GED testing, including Texas, California, Colorado, and many others. However, some states like Florida, Massachusetts, and New York require in-person testing or use alternative exams. Check GED.com for your state’s current online testing availability.

Does It Matter What State I Get My GED In?

Yes. Your GED credential is valid nationwide, but testing rules, fees, and age requirements vary by state. You must take the test in the state where you reside, as online testing requires physical presence within that state.

Which Online GED Test Is Real?

The official GED test online is administered through GED.com and proctored via OnVUE. Only tests taken through this official platform with a valid government ID and proctor supervision are legitimate.

What State Has the Easiest GED Test?

No state has an easier GED test; the GED exam is standardized nationally. However, some states use alternative tests like HiSET or TASC, which differ in format and difficulty.

Is the Online GED Test Harder Than In-Person?

The content is the same, but online testing has stricter rules (no physical calculators or scratch paper). Some find the online format more challenging due to these restrictions and the testing environment.

What Happens If I Fail the GED Online Test?

You can retake the failed subject. Online testing usually allows two attempts before a 60-day wait, with no discounted retakes. In-person testing often offers more retakes and discounts.

Conclusion

Online GED testing is a game changer for anyone seeking a more flexible path to earning their high school credential. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or just prefer learning from home, this option makes it easier than ever to succeed. Just remember—requirements vary by state, so be sure to check the rules in your area. Once you’re ready, head over to GED.com to register.

And for top-quality prep, explore Prepsaret’s study materials designed to help you pass with confidence. Your next chapter starts here—take that first step today.