Virginia GED Requirements

Earning your GED opens the door to better job opportunities and higher education. But before you get started, you need to understand the Virginia GED requirements. This guide explains everything you need to know, including eligibility, testing options, and how to get your GED in Virginia step by step.

Whether you’re just starting or ready to register, understanding these requirements is key. Prepare smarter with trusted resources like Prepsaret GED study materials to boost your chances of passing on the first try.

GED Testing Requirements in Virginia

Before diving into the details, let’s review the basic GED test requirements Virginia. Understanding these key Virginia GED Requirements will help you plakn your GED journey effectively.

Key requirements include:

• Age requirement: Must be at least 18 years old (with exceptions for 16-17 year olds under certain conditions)
• Residency: You do not need to be a Virginia resident to take the GED test in Virginia
• Identification: Valid, government-issued photo ID required
• Education status: Cannot be enrolled in or graduated from an accredited high school
• Testing format: Computer-based testing only (either at official test centers or online)
• Passing score: Minimum score of 145 on each subject test
• Preparation: No mandatory preparation courses required, though preparation is strongly recommended

Understanding these core requirements is essential before beginning your GED journey. Let’s explore each aspect in more detail to ensure you have all the information needed to succeed.

Do I Need to Prove I’m a Resident of Virginia to Take the Test?

Meeting the Virginia GED eligibility criteria is the first step toward satisfying the overall Virginia GED Requirements. While the state does have specific rules for who can take the GED test, residency is not one of them.

No, you do not need to be a Virginia resident to take the GED test in Virginia. The state does not have a residency requirement, meaning even out-of-state test-takers can sit for the exam if they meet other criteria. 

Other states that also do not require residency for GED testing include:

• Florida
• Missouri
• Hawaii.

To be eligible for the GED in Virginia, you must:

• Not be enrolled in a K–12 school program
• Not have graduated from an accredited high school or received an equivalent credential
• Meet the age requirements (discussed in the next section)

If you’re currently enrolled in school but thinking about dropping out to pursue your GED, it’s best to speak with a school counselor. Some schools offer alternative pathways to graduation that could still earn you a high school diploma.

Required Documentation:

Even though residency proof isn’t needed, you’ll still need to provide:

• A valid, government-issued photo ID
• Additional documentation if you’re under 18 (explained in the age section)

Virginia GED Age Requirements

In Virginia, individuals must be 18 years of age or older to take the GED® test without any special approvals or documentation.

Can You Get Your GED at 16 in Virginia?

The answer is yes, but only under specific, regulated conditions.

Applicants who are 16 or 17 years old may be eligible to take the GED test if they meet one of the following exceptions and provide the required documentation to the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE):

• Homeschooled students (age 16 or older): Must provide a signed statement from the division superintendent or their designee certifying the completion of a home instruction program.
• Released from compulsory school attendance: Must present documentation from the local school board, signed by the superintendent or designee, verifying that the student has been formally released.
• Expelled students: Must submit verification from the division superintendent or designee confirming that the student has been expelled.
• Court-ordered participants: Must provide a court order signed by a judge mandating participation in the GED® testing program.
• Correctional facility residents (age 16 or older): Must submit documentation from the Department of Correctional Education stating the individual is actively pursuing a GED® certificate.
• ISAEP students: Must be enrolled in an Individual Student Alternative Education Plan (ISAEP) and achieve a minimum score of 145 on each GED Ready® practice test. Once this is done, the division superintendent or designee must submit the GED Testing Eligibility Form to the VDOE.
• Excused students: Those excused from school attendance due to religious beliefs or chronic health conditions must provide official documentation supporting their case.
• Emancipated minors: Although subject to compulsory attendance laws, emancipated minors may be eligible if released by the local school board.

All required documentation must be submitted to the Specialist for High School Equivalency in the Office of Adult Education and Literacy at the Virginia Department of Education.

Online GED Testing Requirements for Minors

Minors who plan to take the GED® test online must ensure that a parent or legal guardian is physically present during the pre-test check-in to provide consent and approve video monitoring. If no guardian is present, the online exam will be canceled.

Because the process for underage test-takers may vary slightly by school district, it is advisable to consult directly with your local education authority to confirm specific procedures. 

Age verification is strictly enforced at all official GED testing centers and during online testing.

Virginia GED Certificate

To earn your Virginia GED certificate, you need to know the GED passing score Virginia and how the certification process works.

The GED test consists of four subject areas:

• Mathematical Reasoning
• Reasoning Through Language Arts
• Social Studies
• Science

To earn your Virginia GED Certificate, you must:

• Achieve a minimum score of 145 on each of the four subject tests
• Complete all four subjects (though you can take them separately)
• Total combined score isn’t considered as long as you meet the minimum per subject

The cost of GED in Virginia is:

• $36 per subject for both online proctored testing and in person testing  ($144 total)
• Retake fees: Discounted rates available for retakes within 12 months

Your GED Certificate is an official document issued by the Virginia Department of Education. It carries the same legal weight as a traditional high school diploma for purposes of employment, college admission, and military enlistment.

To register for the GED test in Virginia, create an account on GED.com (the official GED testing service website), select your preferred testing location or online option, schedule your exam, and pay the testing fees.

Check Out: How to Boost your GED Score 

GED Testing Locations in Virginia

Virginia offers numerous GED testing locations throughout the state to make the test accessible for all residents. 

Popular testing locations include:

• Northern Virginia: Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun
• Central Virginia: Richmond, Charlottesville, Lynchburg
• Eastern Virginia: Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Newport News, Hampton
• Southern Virginia: Danville, Martinsville, South Boston
• Western Virginia: Roanoke, Abingdon, Blacksburg, Staunton

To find the testing center nearest you:

• Visit GED.com
• Create an account
• Enter your zip code to see nearby testing centers
• Compare available dates and times

Some factors to consider when choosing a testing location:

• Distance from your home
• Available test dates and times
• Parking availability
• Public transportation access
• Testing accommodations for disabilities

Many adult education centers that offer GED preparation classes in Virginia  also serve as testing centers, creating a convenient one-stop solution. 

Online GED Virginia

Virginia allows online GED testing, providing a flexible alternative to in-person testing centers. To qualify for online testing, you must:

• Pass the GED Ready practice test with a “green” score (indicating likely to pass) within 60 days of your online test
• Have a reliable computer with webcam and microphone
• Have stable internet connection
• Have a private, quiet testing space
• Use Chrome browser
• Pass a room scan and identity verification process

The online test is identical to the test taken at testing centers, but it’s monitored by a live online proctor who watches you through your webcam. This means you’ll need to maintain testing integrity just as you would at a physical testing center.

What kind of computer do I need to take the GED test online is a common question. You’ll need a relatively modern computer or laptop with:

• Webcam and microphone (built-in or external)
• Stable internet connection
• Chrome browser installed
• Ability to install a small proctoring program

The online option might be perfect if you:

• Live far from testing centers
• Have transportation challenges
• Need flexible scheduling options
• Prefer testing in a familiar environment
• Have childcare or other commitments that make traveling difficult

Can I take the GED test online from any location? Not quite—you’ll need a private room where you can be alone and undisturbed during your test. Public spaces like libraries or coffee shops aren’t permitted.

Preparation and Study Materials for the GED in Virginia

Virginia offers several options for GED preparation, from free GED classes in VA to premium study materials.

Free Options:

• Adult Education Programs: Many Virginia counties offer adult education GED Virginia programs through public schools or community colleges
• Public Libraries: Many libraries offer free study materials and sometimes preparation classes
• Online Resources: Some basic practice materials are available through the official GED website

While free options are available, they often come with limitations:

• Classes may have fixed schedules that don’t accommodate work hours
• Materials might be outdated or limited in scope
• Large class sizes mean less individual attention
• Progress tracking may be minimal
• Limited practice test availability

Premium Preparation Options:

Prepsaret offers comprehensive preparation materials specifically designed for the current GED test format. Benefits include:

• Topic-specific study guides: Focus on exactly what you need
• Updated content: Always aligned with the most current test version
• Practice tests: Multiple GED practice test options that simulate the actual testing experience
• Personalized learning plans: Study efficiently by focusing on your weak areas
• Flexible scheduling: Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule
• Support from experts: Get answers when you’re stuck

Find Out: Top 5 Best Resources for GED Preparation

Every successful GED candidate needs a solid Virginia GED study guide to navigate the test content. Whether you choose free or premium options, consistency in studying is key to success. 

To maximize your chances of passing on the first try, consider using both official practice tests and supplementary materials from trusted providers like Prepsaret.

How Long Does It Take to Get a GED in Virginia?

The answer varies significantly based on your starting knowledge, available study time, and personal circumstances.

For the testing itself:

• Each subject test takes between 70-150 minutes
• You can take all tests in one day (about 7.5 hours total) or spread them out
• Results are typically available within 3-24 hours
• Official certificates are mailed within 1-2 weeks after passing

For preparation time:

• If you recently left high school: Might need just 1-2 months of focused study
• If you’ve been out of school for years: May require 3-6 months of preparation
• If you struggle with specific subjects: Could take longer for targeted preparation

Most successful GED candidates in Virginia spend:

• 2-3 months studying if studying 15+ hours weekly
• 4-6 months studying if studying 5-10 hours weekly
• Longer if studying less than 5 hours per week

Remember that rushing through preparation often leads to failed tests and retakes, which ultimately takes more time than thorough preparation. Setting a realistic timeline based on your starting point, available study time, and learning pace is crucial.

Find Out: How to Pass the GED Test in 8 Weeks

GED Verification and Official Records in Virginia

After earning your GED, you may need to provide proof of your credential to employers, colleges, or other institutions. Understanding the Virginia GED verification process is an important final step in your GED journey.

The Virginia Department of Education GED office maintains official records of all GED credentials issued in the state. For verification or to obtain official transcripts:

• Visit the GED Credentialing Service
• Create an account or log in to your existing account
• Request an official transcript or verification
• Pay the required fee (typically $15 per copy)
• Choose delivery method (electronic or mail)

Official transcripts can be sent directly to:

• Colleges and universities
• Employers
• Military recruiters
• Yourself for personal records

If you need to verify a GED from many years ago, the process might take longer, especially for GEDs earned before 2014 when the test moved to its current computer-based format.

Continue Reading: How Can an Employer Verify a GED?

Virginia GED Requirements FAQs

Virginia GED Requirements: Conclusion

Navigating the Virginia GED Requirements may seem challenging, but with the right guidance, earning your GED is entirely achievable. 

Key steps include confirming eligibility, selecting online or in-person testing, preparing effectively, and scheduling your exams. Upon passing, request your certificate and transcripts. 

Whether you’re 16 or 60, it’s never too late. With expert study tools and support from Prepsaret, you can prepare with confidence and successfully [pass your GED on your first attempt.