Texas GED Requirements

Are you ready to boost your education and career in Texas? Understanding Texas GED requirements is your first step. To take the GED, you must be a Texas resident, at least 18 years old (16-17 with special permissions), and not enrolled in high school or already graduated. 

The GED exam covers four subjects and can be taken online or at a test center. Prepare confidently with Prepsaret study guide and resources, which will help you unlock new opportunities once you earn your Texas GED.

GED Eligibility and Requirements in Texas

GED Requirements Texas

Meeting the GED requirements in Texas involves understanding several important factors before you can register for the test. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees the high school equivalency program in the state and has established specific criteria for candidates:

The GED eligibility in Texas focuses primarily on 

• Age, 
• Education status, and
•  Residency. 

To be eligible:

• You must be at least 18 years old (with exceptions for younger individuals)
• You cannot be enrolled in high school or have graduated from high school
• You must be a Texas resident with a valid government-issued ID
• For non-citizens, you must have proper documentation showing legal residence in Texas

The GED eligibility in Texas does not require any prerequisite courses or educational minimums, though preparation is strongly recommended for success. 

Unlike some states, Texas does not require you to take an official practice test before attempting the actual GED exam, although doing so can help you assess your readiness.

Texas GED Rules 2025

The Texas GED rules 2025 include several important updates that potential test-takers should know about. The Texas Education Agency continually reviews and adjusts requirements to better serve students and maintain educational standards:

• Enhanced remote testing options are expected to continue and expand
• New digital literacy components may be incorporated into the testing process
• Potential changes to score requirements based on ongoing educational assessments
• Additional accommodations for test-takers with disabilities
• Possible expansion of fee waiver programs for qualifying individuals

While the core Texas GED Requirements remain similar to previous years, staying informed about the Texas GED rules 2025 ensures you’re prepared for any procedural changes. 

The Texas Education Agency announces major changes well in advance, so checking their official website periodically is recommended.

Texas GED Age Requirements and Exceptions

Knowing the Texas GED age requirements is essential before beginning the application process. Candidates need to be at least 18 years old to take the GED in Texas without any special permissions or documentation. 

However, there are exceptions for younger individuals under specific circumstances.

The standard Texas GED age requirements include:

• Age 18+: Can take the test with no additional requirements beyond standard eligibility
• Age 17: Can take the test with parental/guardian consent and withdrawal from high school
• Age 16: Special circumstances required (court orders, home schooling situations, or other exceptional situations)

For most adults, the Texas GED age requirements present no obstacles. Simply provide proof of your age with a valid government-issued ID when registering for the test.

How to Get a GED in Texas at 16

If you’re wondering about getting a GED in Texas at 16, be aware that this requires meeting specific criteria. 

At this age, you must have:

• Court order requiring GED testing, OR
• Be enrolled in a Job Corps training program, OR
• Be under the care of a state agency, OR
• Have other exceptional circumstances recognized by the Texas Education Agency

Steps to get a GED in Texas at 16 involve:

• Obtaining the required documentation (court order or agency verification)
• Getting parental/guardian consent forms completed
• Submitting an age waiver application to the testing center
• Receiving approval before registration can proceed

These strict requirements for how to get a GED in Texas at 16 exist to ensure young people pursue traditional education when appropriate, while still providing alternatives for those in special circumstances.

Related blog post: Utah GED Requirements

How to Get a GED in Texas at 17

The path for how to get a GED in Texas at 17 is somewhat more accessible than for 16-year-olds, though it still requires additional steps beyond adult registration. 

At 17, you’ll need:

• Parental or guardian consent in writing
• Withdrawal from high school (with documentation)
• In some cases, a letter from a school official may be required

Steps to get a GED in Texas at 17 involve:

• Obtain and complete a parental consent form
• Secure documentation proving withdrawal from high school
• Provide these documents when registering for the test
• Meet all other standard Texas Step-By-Step Guide: How to Get a GED in Texas GED Requirements

While the process for how to get a GED in Texas at 17 involves more paperwork than for adults, it’s designed to be accessible for those who have determined that the GED path better suits their educational needs.

How to Get a GED in Texas

Getting a GED in Texas involves following a clear process from preparation through testing. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate each step:

• Verify your eligibility based on the Texas GED Requirements
• Create an account on the official GED.com website
• Study and prepare using free and premium online prep study materials from platforms such as Prepsaret.
• Schedule your tests for all four subject areas
• Take and pass each subject test with a score of 145 or higher
• Receive your Texas High School Equivalency Certificate upon passing all tests

The process of getting a GED in Texas takes several weeks to months, depending on your preparation level and testing schedule. You can take the tests one at a time or schedule multiple subjects on the same day, based on your comfort level and readiness.

How to Get Your GED in Texas Online

For those seeking convenience and flexibility, getting your GED in Texas online has become an increasingly popular option. The online testing option, called GED Online Proctored (OP), allows you to take the test from home under these conditions:

• You must have a computer with a webcam and a stable internet connection
• You must pass the GED Ready practice test with a “green” score (indicating readiness)
• You’ll be monitored by a live proctor throughout the test session
• Your testing environment must be private, quiet, and free from distractions

GED Texas Online Steps

• Create an account on GED.com
• Take and pass the GED Ready practice test for each subject
• Schedule your online proctored exam
• Complete a system check before test day
• Log in 30 minutes early on test day for check-in procedures

This online option makes pursuing the Texas GED Requirements more accessible for those with transportation challenges, busy schedules, or those who simply prefer testing in familiar surroundings.

Continue reading: Online GED Test: How to Get Ged Online

GED Classes in Texas

Taking advantage of GED classes in Texas can significantly increase your chances of success on the test. These preparatory programs are designed to cover all test subjects and familiarize you with the format and types of questions you’ll encounter.

GED classes in Texas are available through several channels:

• Adult Education Programs: Free or low-cost classes offered through community colleges, Texas Tech K12 TWC, and Adult Education Program
• Public Libraries: Many offer free GED preparation programs
• Community Centers: Look for local resources in your area- Community Action Inc., Central Texas
• Online Programs: Both free and paid options with varying levels of instructor support
• Workforce Solutions Offices: Often provide GED preparation as part of career advancement services

Many GED classes in Texas are available at no cost, particularly those offered through public institutions. These programs not only help you master the content but also provide valuable test-taking strategies and confidence-building support.

Read on: GED Prep Classes in Texas

GED Practice Test

Taking a GED practice test is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the actual exam. These practice assessments:

• Familiarize you with the test format and types of questions
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each subject area
• Help you focus your study efforts where they’re most needed
• Build confidence and reduce test anxiety
• Provide a realistic estimate of your readiness

The official GED practice test, called GED Ready, is available through the GED.com website for a small fee. Scoring “green” on this practice test indicates you’re likely to pass the actual exam. For online testing, achieving this score is a prerequisite.

Additionally, many GED classes in Texas include practice tests as part of their curriculum, giving you multiple opportunities to assess your progress as you prepare to meet the Texas GED Requirements. 

Taking the GED Test in Texas

To qualify to take the GED test in Texas, you must be a Texas resident, at least 18 years old. The GED test covers four subjects, which include Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, with each subject timed separately.

GED Test Requirements Texas

Familiarizing yourself with the GED test requirements in Texas helps ensure you’re fully prepared on test day. The test itself consists of four subject areas:

Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes)

• Quantitative problem solving, algebraic expressions, equations
• The calculator allowed for most questions
• Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes)

• Reading comprehension, writing, and grammar
• Includes an extended response (essay) section

Science (90 minutes)

• Life science, physical science, earth and space science
• Focus on analyzing scientific information and concepts

Social Studies (70 minutes)

• Civics and government, U.S. history, economics, geography
• Interpreting graphs, charts, and political cartoons

The GED test requirements in Texas specify a minimum passing score of 145 out of 200 on each subject test. 

You must pass all four tests to receive your credential, but you can take them one at a time if preferred. Test-takers must also bring a valid, government-issued photo ID to the testing center.

Where to Take the GED Test in Texas

Texas offers numerous testing sites throughout the state, including:

• Community colleges
• Adult education centers
• Workforce development centers
• Dedicated testing facilities

Knowing where to take the GED test in Texas gives you options to find a location convenient to your home or workplace. 

To find where to take the GED test in Texas, visit the official GED website and use their test center locator tool. Simply enter your ZIP code to see nearby options. While more rural areas may have limited options

Major metropolitan areas with multiple testing locations include:

• Houston, 
• Dallas, 
• San Antonio, and 
• Austin 

For those unable to travel to a physical location, the online proctored testing option provides an alternative that meets the Texas GED Requirements without requiring in-person attendance.

Texas GED Online

The Texas GED online option has revolutionized access to this credential, particularly for those with transportation limitations, busy schedules, or those who live far from testing centers. 

To take advantage of the Texas GED online opportunity:

• You must first pass the GED Ready practice test with a “green” score
• You need a computer with a webcam, a microphone, and stable internet
• Your testing environment must be private and free from distractions
• You’ll be monitored by a live proctor throughout the test session

The benefits of pursuing your Texas GED online include:

• Flexible scheduling with more available time slots
• No travel time or transportation costs
• Testing in a familiar, comfortable environment
• The same credentials as in-person testing

This option has made meeting the Texas GED Requirements more accessible to many residents who might otherwise face barriers to completing their high school equivalency.

Cost of the GED Test in Texas

Currently, the fee structure is:

• $36.25 per subject test ($145 for all four subjects)
• $17 for each GED Ready practice test
• Additional fees may apply for rescheduling or canceled appointments

The Texas GED test cost is paid directly to GED Testing Service when you schedule your tests online. Payment can be made by credit card or voucher (if you qualify for assistance programs).

How Much Does It Cost to Get a GED in Texas

It cost $145 for all four subjects, or $36.25 per subject, to take the GED test in Texas. If taking the test online, the cost per subject is $42.25. Additionally, if taking it online, you’ll need to factor in the cost of four GED Ready practice tests (around $32), bringing the total cost to $197. 

When calculating how much it costs to get a GED in Texas, consider both direct and indirect expenses:

Direct costs:

• Test fees: $145 for all four subjects
• Practice tests: $17 each (recommended for at least some subjects)
• Potential retake fees if you don’t pass on the first attempt

Indirect costs:

• Study materials or courses (if not using free options)
• Transportation to testing centers (if not testing online)
• Time invested in preparation

The total answer to how much it costs to get a GED in Texas varies based on your preparation needs and how many attempts you require to pass each subject. For many, the minimum cost is the $145 testing fee, though additional preparation resources may be a wise investment.

Learn more: The Financial Aid For GED

GED Online Texas Free

While the test itself has associated fees, there are options for GED online Texas free preparation resources. 

These no-cost resources can significantly reduce your overall expenses:

• Adult education programs funded by the state often provide free GED preparation
• Public libraries offer free study materials and sometimes classes
• Online resources from the Texas Education Agency and a nonprofit organization
• Free sample questions and answers from prepsaret.com
• GED.com offers some free sample questions and study guides

Although finding completely GED online Texas free testing is unlikely (the test fee is standard), many organizations offer vouchers or financial assistance to cover testing costs for qualifying individuals. 

Check with:

• Local workforce development boards
• Community action agencies
• Adult education providers
• Charitable foundations focusing on education, such as the University of North Texas Foundation

These resources can help make meeting the Texas GED Requirements financially accessible, regardless of your economic situation.

What To Expect After You Get Your GED in Texas

After earning a GED in Texas, you are issued a recognized State of Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency (TxCHSE). This credential opens up new opportunities for further education, such as college or vocational training

Texas GED Verification

After passing all four subject tests, understanding Texas GED verification processes is important for using your credential effectively. Your official diploma will arrive by mail, but you may need to verify your achievement before that:

• Immediate results: Your test scores are available in your GED.com account immediately after testing
• Official transcript: Available through your GED.com account for a small fee
• Employer verification: Employers can verify your credentials through the GED Credential Service

For Texas GED verification purposes, you can order official transcripts to be sent directly to colleges, employers, or military recruiters. These transcripts are recognized as official documentation of your high school equivalency achievement.

Texas High School Equivalency

Your GED certificate serves as a Texas high school equivalency diploma, legally equivalent to a traditional high school diploma for virtually all purposes:

• Higher education: Accepted for college and university admissions
• Employment: Recognized by employers as equivalent to a high school diploma
• Military service: Meets educational requirements for enlistment
• Financial aid: Qualifies you for federal student aid programs when pursuing further education

The Texas high school equivalency credential demonstrates to colleges and employers that you have mastered high school-level skills and knowledge. 

According to research, GED graduates earn approximately 25% more than those without a high school diploma or equivalent, making the effort to meet the Texas GED Requirements a valuable investment in your future.

Texas GED Requirements: FAQs

Texas GED Requirements: Final Thoughts

Meeting the Texas GED Requirements opens doors to advanced education and better employment opportunities. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparation resources, and testing procedures outlined in this guide, you’re well-equipped to pursue this valuable credential.

Remember that resources are available to help with both preparation and costs, making the GED accessible to all Texans seeking to advance their education and career prospects.