Is the HiSET Available in Florida? No. Florida does not offer the HiSET exam. The GED is the only state-approved high school equivalency test in Florida. All employers, colleges, training programs, and the military in Florida recognize the GED as the official path to a high school equivalency diploma.
While states like Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Iowa, and approximately 20 others still offer the HiSET as an option, Florida has standardized exclusively on the GED.
This is administered at the state level by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE), Division of Career and Adult Education, through the High School Equivalency Diploma Program.
The official credential you earn in Florida is called the State of Florida High School Diploma, issued upon passing all four GED subject tests. It carries the same legal weight as a diploma issued by any Florida public high school.
Which States Still Offer HiSET?
Understanding which states offer HiSET vs. GED helps if you have relocated or are considering testing in another state. Key points:
| State | Available Exam(s) |
| Florida | GED only — HiSET not available |
| Texas | GED only — HiSET not available in TX either |
| Georgia | GED only — HiSET not available in GA |
| California | Both GED and HiSET available for adult HSE learners; HiSET Proficiency available for current HS students |
| Maine, New Hampshire, Iowa, Wyoming | HiSET available as primary or alternative option |
| Massachusetts | HiSET is the primary exam (GED not offered) |
| New York, Alabama | GED only |
If you move to a state that offers HiSET, any GED subjects you have already passed in Florida cannot be combined with HiSET results. You would need to start that state’s designated exam from the beginning.
What Is the Florida GED?
The GED (General Educational Development) test is a four-subject high school equivalency examination developed by GED Testing Service LLC. It measures the academic skills required by high schools and requested by employers and colleges. In Florida, it is administered through the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE), Division of Career and Adult Education, with the GED Administrator based in Tallahassee.
The GED has been continuously updated — the current version, introduced in 2014, places significant emphasis on critical thinking, data analysis, and real-world application of knowledge rather than rote memorization. This makes it slightly more challenging than older versions and more advanced than the HiSET in certain areas, particularly mathematics.
Florida GED At-a-Glance
| Fact | Detail |
| Official name of credential | State of Florida High School Diploma |
| Administered by | Florida Department of Education (FLDOE), Division of Career and Adult Education |
| State GED Administrator | Mallory Martinez | [email protected] | (850) 245-0449 | Toll-free: 1-877-352-4331 |
| Number of subjects | 4 |
| Total test time | Approximately 7.5 hours (can be split across sessions) |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 |
| Score results | Available same day within 3 hours of completing a subject |
| Available languages | English and Spanish; you may combine languages to earn your credential |
| Cost per subject | $38 (in-person at a Test Center) |
| Total cost (all 4 subjects) | $152 |
| Online testing available? | NO — suspended by FLDOE effective January 10, 2024 |
Florida GED Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility rules in Florida differ based on age. All requirements come directly from the official Florida GED policies at ged.com and the Florida Department of Education.
Adults 18 and Older
If you are 18 or older, the requirements are straightforward:
- You do not need to be a resident of Florida (no residency requirement), but must provide a valid government-issued ID and a Florida address to register
- You must not currently be enrolled in an accredited high school
- You must not already hold a high school diploma or equivalent credential
- You do not need to complete a preparatory class before testing, though classes are strongly recommended
- You do not need to take the GED Ready practice test before an in-person test (required only for online testing — currently suspended in Florida)
Students Age 17
- Must file a formal declaration of intent to terminate school enrollment pursuant to Section 1003.21(1)(c), Florida Statutes
- Must submit a signed and notarized Underage Testing Form to the GED testing site before being allowed to test
- Must provide proof of withdrawal from high school (a letter on the school’s official letterhead)
- Must obtain written permission from a parent or legal guardian
Students Age 16
- Must file the same formal declaration of intent to terminate school enrollment required for 17-year-olds
- Must submit a signed and notarized Underage Testing Form
- Must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of Social Security Number, and proof of withdrawal from high school
- Must obtain notarized written consent from a parent or legal guardian
| Important: All Under-18 Documentation Must Be Submitted in Person
Students aged 16 or 17 must physically deliver all required documents to a GED testing site before being allowed to test. Walk-in registration at testing centers is NOT available — you must register online at ged.com first, then bring your documentation to the test center on or before your scheduled test date. For full underage testing guidance, visit: fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/hse/underage-testing-info.stml |
Florida GED Cost
The GED cost in Florida is straightforward for in-person testing. Here is everything you need to know, including retake fees and financial assistance options.
Standard Test Fees
| Fee Item | Amount / Detail |
| Per subject — In-Person (Test Center) | $38.00 |
| Per subject — Online (Remote Proctored) | SUSPENDED as of January 10, 2024 — not available in Florida |
| All 4 subjects (no retakes) — In-Person | $152.00 |
| Payment method | Debit or credit card online when scheduling at ged.com; no cash at test centers |
Retake Fees
| Retake Rule | Details |
| In-Person retake (1st discounted retake) | GED Testing Service waives its $26 test fee; $12 test center fee applies = $12 total |
| In-Person retake (after first discounted retake) | Full $38 per subject resumes; 1:1 discounted retake offer repeats |
| Online retake | Not applicable — online testing suspended in Florida |
| Retake waiting period — In-Person | No waiting period for first 2 retakes; 60-day wait after 3rd attempt on same subject |
| Retake limit | No annual limit on in-person testing; 60-day wait triggers after 3 attempts on same subject |
Free and Subsidized GED Options in Florida
Many Florida residents pay little or nothing out of pocket for their GED, thanks to several programs:
- Florida Adult Education Programs (Free): Free GED prep classes are available at school districts, technical colleges, and community organizations statewide through FLDOE-funded Adult Education programs. Classes cover all four GED subjects and are open enrollment — no semester start date required.
- WIOA Funding: Adults who meet income eligibility requirements may receive exam fee assistance through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act-funded programs. Contact your local CareerSource Florida center to check eligibility.
- McFatter Technical College (Broward County): GED prep classes are available for just $30 per trimester, with remote and on-campus options including Monday–Thursday, Friday online, and Saturday sessions (8:00 AM–12:00 PM). One-time activity fee of $20 per year applies.
- Community College Adult Education: Virtually every Florida county has a free or very low-cost GED preparation program through the local school district or state college adult education division.
| Free GED Florida — Key Contacts
FLDOE High School Equivalency Program: [email protected] | (850) 245-0449 | Toll-free: 1-877-352-4331 Find a free GED prep program near you: web02.fldoe.org/EducationContacts/DisplayList.aspx?list=69 Florida Literacy Coalition resources: floridaliteracy.org/ged_information.html McFatter Technical College (Broward): (754) 321-5700 Find a GED testing center: pearsonvue.com/ged/locate |
Florida GED Subjects, Format and Test Length
The Florida GED consists of four subject tests, each administered separately. You can take them in any order, on different days, and do not need to pass all four before retaking a failed subject.
Total testing time across all four subjects is approximately 7.5 hours, but you do not have to take them all in one session. In Florida, you can take all four subjects in one day if you find a testing center whose schedule permits it.
Subject Test Overview
| Subject | Time Limit | Content and Format |
| Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) | 150 minutes (includes a 10-min break) | Reading comprehension, extended response essay, grammar and writing mechanics |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 115 minutes | Basic math, geometry, graphs, algebra, and functions; calculator allowed in Part 2 |
| Science | 90 minutes | Life science, physical science, earth/space science; heavy data interpretation from graphs/charts |
| Social Studies | 90 minutes | U.S. history, civics/government, economics, geography; map and source document analysis |
Question Types on the Florida GED
The 2014 GED uses multiple question formats — not just multiple choice. Understanding these helps you prepare more effectively:
- Multiple choice: Select the correct answer from four options — the most common format
- Drag-and-drop: Move items into a correct sequence, category, or location on a map or diagram
- Fill-in-the-blank (gridded response): Type a number answer in a grid — common in math
- Short answer: Write a brief response (used in Science)
- Extended response (essay): Write a full argumentative essay based on source texts (RLA — 45 minutes)
- Hot spot: Click on a specific location on an image, diagram, or map
Passing Score and Score Levels
| Score Range | What It Means |
| Passing (High School Equivalency) | 145 to 164 — earns State of Florida High School Diploma |
| GED College Ready | 165 to 174 — qualifies for college-level courses without placement testing |
| GED College Ready + Credit | 175 to 200 — may earn college credit at participating institutions |
| Below Passing | Below 145 — must retake that subject; score report shows areas to improve |
| Score availability | Same day, within 3 hours of completing the test |
Scores above the passing threshold matter — a College Ready or College Ready + Credit score can save you money by skipping remedial college courses or earning college credit outright at participating Florida institutions.
Florida GED Online: Can You Take the GED at Home?
This is one of the most searched questions for Florida adults: Can I take my GED online at home in Florida?
| Important 2024 Update — Online GED Testing Suspended in Florida
Effective January 10, 2024, online-proctored GED testing has been suspended in Florida by the FLDOE. All GED testing must now be done in person at an official, approved testing center. Students may continue to access all GED-approved in-person testing sites and schedule in-person examinations without interruption. Visit ged.com/about-test/scheduling or pearsonvue.com/ged/locate to find a center near you. |
Florida has over 100 publicly accessible GED-approved in-person testing sites statewide, so finding a GED testing center near you should be manageable regardless of where you live. All testing is computer-based at official test centers.
In-Person GED Testing
| Requirement | Details |
| GED Ready practice test | NOT required for in-person testing (strongly recommended but optional) |
| Computer | Provided at the test center — no personal device needed |
| ID required | Valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) |
| Scratch paper | Provided at the test center for math work |
| Prohibited items | No phones, smart watches, notes, food, drinks, or hats in the testing room |
| All subjects same day? | Yes — in Florida you can take all four subjects in one day if the testing center’s schedule allows |
| Language options | English or Spanish; results from both languages can be combined toward your credential |
Free Online GED Prep Florida
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How to Get Your GED in Florida: Step-by-Step
The process is fully online for registration. Walk-in registration at testing centers is NOT available in Florida. Follow these steps from official GED.com guidance:
- Go to ged.com and create a free account — provide your legal name, date of birth, email address, and a Florida address (residency is not required, but a Florida address is needed to register for Florida testing)
- If you are 16 or 17, gather all required documentation (notarized Underage Testing Form, proof of school withdrawal, parental permission letter) and plan to present them in person at the test center before testing
- Study using free resources from GED.com, the Florida Literacy Coalition, Khan Academy, or enroll in a free Florida Adult Education prep class at your local school district or technical college
- Take the optional GED Ready practice test (~$7.99 per subject) — this is the single best predictor of GED success and tells you if you are ready to schedule the real exam
- Log in to your GED account, go to Schedule a Test, choose your subject, and select an in-person test center near you — online testing is not available in Florida
- Pay the $38 per subject fee with a debit or credit card at time of scheduling on ged.com
- Receive your confirmation and save your admission information for test day — bring your government-issued photo ID on test day
| No Prep Class Required — But Strongly Advised
Florida does not require you to attend GED preparation classes before testing. However, the FLDOE and GED.com both emphasize that taking free prep classes is the best way to prepare. Adults who complete structured preparation before testing have significantly higher first-attempt pass rates. Free classes are available at virtually every Florida county through the adult education network. |
Florida HiSET Alternatives
Beyond the GED, Florida offers additional pathways to earn a legitimate high school credential. These are distinct from the GED and may be better options for certain adults.
GED: The Official Equivalency Credential
The GED is Florida’s only state-approved high school equivalency exam. It earns you the State of Florida High School Diploma, a credential legally equivalent to a traditional diploma and accepted by all Florida employers, colleges, the military, and federal programs. It is the fastest, lowest-cost, and most universally recognized pathway for most Florida adults.
Accredited Online High School Diploma Programs
For adults who prefer coursework over high-stakes testing, accredited online high school diploma programs allow you to earn a full diploma by completing courses at your own pace. This is the most suitable option for those who experience test anxiety, want structured curriculum, or prefer a transcript-based credential.
What to look for in a legitimate online diploma program:
- Regional accreditation (AdvancED, NWAC, etc.) or national accreditation through DEAC (Distance Education Accrediting Commission)
- Real coursework requirements — not instant-diploma mills that issue credentials without any academic work
- Official transcripts accepted by Florida employers and colleges
- Self-paced structure with options for credit for prior learning or work experience
| Warning: Diploma Mills Are Not Legitimate
Some websites sell fake ‘diplomas’ or ‘accredited certificates’ online for a fee with no actual coursework. These are not accepted by any Florida employer, college, military branch, or government agency. Always verify accreditation through the U.S. Department of Education’s database before enrolling in any online diploma program. |
Florida Adult Education Programs
Florida’s state-funded adult education network provides free or very low-cost GED preparation and general education classes across all 67 counties. These programs are open enrollment and offer both in-person and hybrid formats.
GED vs. Online Diploma vs. Adult Education
| Criteria | GED | Online Diploma | Adult Education (Prep Only) |
| Credential type | State of Florida High School Diploma | High School Diploma (if accredited) | Prepares for GED — no standalone credential |
| Minimum age | 16 (with requirements) / 18 (standard) | Varies by program | 18+ typical; some programs accept 16+ |
| Cost | $152 (all 4 subjects) | $200–$1,500 | Free to low cost |
| Time to complete | Weeks to months | Months to 1+ year | Ongoing; no completion credential |
| Format | Exam-based (4 subjects) | Coursework-based | Classes + practice tests |
| Recognition | Nationally recognized; 95%+ of US employers | Accepted if properly accredited | N/A — supports GED credential |
| Online testing available? | NO — suspended in FL since Jan 2024 | Yes — fully online | Classes often available online |
HiSET vs. GED
Even though the HiSET is not available in Florida, many people want to understand the difference between HiSET vs. GED and whether the GED is harder. Here is a detailed, authoritative comparison.
| Feature | GED (Florida) | HiSET (Not in Florida) |
| Number of subjects | 4 | 5 |
| Available in Florida | YES | NO |
| Passing score per subject | 145 out of 200 | 8 out of 20; 45 combined total |
| Total test time | 7.5 hours | ~7–8 hours |
| Math difficulty | Higher — algebra and functions prominent | Slightly lower — broader coverage |
| Essay requirement | Yes — Extended Response (45 min) | Yes — Writing essay section |
| Calculator policy | An on-screen calculator is provided for Part 2 of Math | No calculator on Part 1 of Math; allowed on Part 2 |
| Testing format | Computer-based only | Computer-based and paper-based |
| Online testing | SUSPENDED in Florida since Jan 2024 | HiSET@Home available in some states |
| Cost (full exam) | $152 (Florida) | Varies by state ($75–$100 in-person) |
| College recognition | Widely accepted nationwide | Widely accepted; varies more by state |
| Military acceptance | Yes — all branches | Yes — all branches |
| Score levels | Pass / College Ready / College Ready + Credit | Pass only (scaled score) |
HiSET vs. GED: Which Is Harder?
The most searched comparison is ‘HiSET vs GED, which is harder.’ The honest answer depends on individual strengths:
- GED Math is generally considered more challenging — it includes more algebraic reasoning, functions, and data interpretation, and the GED’s format emphasizes application over recall
- HiSET covers 5 subjects vs. GED’s 4 — spreading study across more areas but with lower individual passing thresholds (8/20 vs. 145/200)
- GED offers additional score tiers (College Ready, College Ready + Credit), which benefit students who aim high, giving the GED more upside value for Florida college admissions
- For Florida residents, this comparison is academic — the GED is your only path, and it is entirely achievable with proper preparation. GED Testing Service reports that most test-takers who prepare adequately pass on their first attempt
Free GED Classes and Practice Tests in Florida
Florida’s adult education network provides extensive free resources. You should not have to pay for GED prep — everything you need is available at no cost through official channels.
Free GED Prep Classes: Florida Adult Education (FLDOE)
Free GED classes are available at school districts, technical colleges, and adult education centers throughout all 67 Florida counties through the FLDOE-funded Adult Education program. Classes cover all four GED subjects and are open enrollment — you do not need to wait for a new semester or term to begin.
| Provider | Details |
| McFatter Technical College (Broward County) | $30/trimester; M–Th + Friday online + Saturday sessions; both remote and on-campus; open-entry/open-exit; contact (754) 321-5700 |
| Local School District Adult Education Centers | Available in all 67 Florida counties — free GED prep through the FLDOE Adult Education network; find your nearest: web02.fldoe.org/EducationContacts/DisplayList.aspx?list=69 |
| Florida State Colleges and Technical Centers | Many Florida state colleges offer free or low-cost GED prep through their adult education divisions, often with flexible morning, afternoon, and evening schedules |
| Florida Literacy Coalition Programs | Free GED preparation resources and program referrals at floridaliteracy.org; includes study guides, teacher resources, and a statewide program locator |
Free Florida GED Practice Tests
| Resource | Where to Access |
| GED Free Test Previews (Official) | ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html — short subject previews to familiarize yourself with question types and the computer interface |
| GED Practice Questions (Official) | ged.com/study/practice-questions.html — official sample questions by subject with answer explanations |
| GED Ready Practice Test (Paid, ~$7.99/subject) | The most accurate predictor of GED readiness; scores ‘green’ = likely to pass; the best investment before scheduling your real exam |
| Prepsaret.com | comprehensive free video lessons for math, reading, science, and social studies aligned to GED content areas |
| GED Mobile App | Free download on iOS and Android — official GED app with study tools, practice questions, and progress tracking |
| Florida Public Libraries | Many Florida public libraries offer free access to Learning Express Library with full GED practice tests and detailed answer explanations — ask your branch librarian |
| Florida Literacy Coalition | floridaliteracy.org — free GED study guides, subject resources, math video collections, and a statewide program finder |
How to Pass the Florida GED Fast
The average time to prepare for the GED is 2 to 3 months, according to GED.com. However, motivated students with a focused study plan often pass individual subjects in 2 to 4 weeks. Here is what actually works.
30-Day GED Study Blueprint
| Week | Focus and Activities |
| Week 1: Diagnose and target | Take a free GED practice test in all four subjects to establish your baseline. Identify your 1–2 weakest subjects and dedicate 70% of your study time there. Use official GED.com practice questions daily. |
| Week 2: Deep subject work | Focus on Mathematical Reasoning (the most commonly failed subject). Study algebra, linear equations, and graphs. Begin RLA — practice reading passages and responding to comprehension questions. |
| Week 3: Full subject rotation + timed tests | Take one full-time practice test per subject. Fix weak areas immediately. Start practicing the extended response essay — aim for a structured 4-paragraph argument with a clear thesis and text-based evidence. |
| Week 4: Final prep and scheduling | Take the GED Ready official practice test (~$7.99/subject). If you score green on a subject, schedule that real GED exam at a Florida testing center. If not, study specific weak areas for 3–5 more days before retesting on GED Ready. |
Subject-Specific Tips
Mathematical Reasoning
Do not try to relearn all of high school math. Focus on the 5 highest-yield areas: basic arithmetic, ratios and proportions, linear equations, graphs and data interpretation, and basic geometry. Practice with and without the calculator — Part 1 of the Math test is calculator-free. Work through at least 30 word problems before testing.
Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA)
You have 45 minutes to write an argumentative essay using evidence from the provided source texts. Practice the 3-step process: (1) read both passages and identify the main argument, (2) outline your position with 2–3 pieces of text evidence, (3) write a clear intro, 2–3 body paragraphs with evidence, and a conclusion. Grammar and organization are both scored.
Science and Social Studies
Both tests are heavily data-driven. Most questions require interpreting charts, graphs, maps, or primary source documents — not memorizing facts. Practice reading a visual (table, graph, diagram) and answering 3–4 questions about it before your exam. This single skill accounts for a large portion of both tests.
Day-of-Test Checklist
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — no ID means no testing
- Arrive at the test center at least 15 minutes early
- Leave your phone, smart watch, notes, food, drinks, and hats in your car — prohibited items cannot be brought into the testing room
- Use the scratch paper provided at the test center for math work — it is provided for you
- Pace yourself — each test has a set time limit; flag difficult questions and return to them rather than getting stuck
- For the essay, spend 5 minutes planning your argument structure before writing — planned essays consistently score higher
Florida GED Transcripts, Diploma, and Scores
After passing all four GED subjects and earning your State of Florida High School Diploma, here is exactly how to access your documents.
What You Receive Automatically:
- One free electronic diploma and one free electronic transcript are automatically sent to the email address linked to your GED.com account after you pass all four subjects
- The electronic documents are PDF files verified by GED Testing Service/Parchment using Blue Ribbon Security — employers and colleges can verify authenticity each time the document is opened
- Download and save these files immediately — links are available for a limited time only
- These PDF documents can be forwarded directly to employers and colleges that accept electronic credentials
Ordering Physical and Additional Documents
| Document Type | How to Obtain |
| Printed diploma | Log in to your GED account at ged.com, go to My Scores, select Order Duplicates, then Printed Diploma; enter the recipient name and mailing address |
| Transcript requests | Available at ged.com/life-after-ged.html |
| FLDOE GED Program contact | Mallory Martinez, GED Administrator: (850) 245-0449 | [email protected] | 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 634, Tallahassee, FL 32399 |
| GED Parchment support | parchmentsupport.force.com/GED/s/test-takers |
After Your GED: What’s Next?
- Enroll at any Florida state college or technical center — your State of Florida High School Diploma satisfies all standard diploma requirements for admission
- Apply for FAFSA financial aid — your GED credential makes you fully eligible for federal financial aid for college
- Explore certificate programs at Florida state colleges in healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and business — most require only a GED or high school diploma for admission
- Apply for Florida workforce training programs through CareerSource Florida — your GED qualifies you for many WIOA-funded career development programs
- Contact your nearest Florida state college for information on dual enrollment in workforce certificate programs alongside your GED credential
What Can You Do With a GED in Florida?
A common concern is whether the GED is truly equivalent to a high school diploma for employers and colleges in Florida. The answer, confirmed by law and practice, is yes.
| Legal Equivalence
The State of Florida High School Diploma earned through the GED is legally equivalent to a traditional Florida high school diploma. It is accepted by all Florida employers, all Florida colleges and universities, all branches of the U.S. military, and federal employment and training programs. |
Career Opportunities Opened by the Florida GED
| Opportunity | Details |
| Entry-level employment | Customer service, retail, warehousing, manufacturing, food service, hospitality — most require a high school diploma or equivalent |
| Military service | All branches of the U.S. Armed Forces accept the GED; some branches may have additional requirements or ASVAB score thresholds |
| Florida State College admission | Admission to all 28 Florida state colleges — the GED satisfies the standard diploma requirement for all credit programs |
| Healthcare | CNA programs, medical assistant training, pharmacy technician, and phlebotomy — most Florida programs require a GED for admission |
| Skilled trades | Electrician, plumber, HVAC, welding apprenticeships — typically require a GED for program enrollment and licensure in Florida |
| IT certifications | CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Google certifications — no diploma required, but a GED satisfies employer educational requirements |
| Federal employment | All federal government positions accepting a high school diploma also accept the GED equivalency credential |
| Florida workforce training | Eligibility for CareerSource Florida workforce training programs funded through WIOA expands your career options significantly |
Florida HiSET Alternative FAQs
Is HiSET accepted in Florida?
No. Florida does not offer, administer, or accept the HiSET exam. Florida’s only official high school equivalency pathway is the GED, governed by the Florida Department of Education. If you earned a HiSET credential in another state, it may or may not be recognized in Florida, depending on the context — contact the FLDOE for specific situations.
Can I take my GED online at home in Florida?
No, not as of January 2024. The Florida Department of Education suspended online-proctored GED testing effective January 10, 2024. All GED exams in Florida must now be taken in person at one of Florida’s 100+ official approved testing centers. GED preparation and study can be done online, but the actual exam requires an in-person visit to a test center.
What is the PERT test in Florida?
The PERT (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test) is a Florida college placement test — separate from the GED. After earning your GED and applying to a Florida state college, you may be required to take the PERT to determine your starting course level (college-ready vs. developmental/remedial courses). The PERT covers reading, writing, and mathematics and is administered by Florida colleges, not by the FLDOE GED program. A GED score in the College Ready range (165–174) may allow you to skip the PERT requirement at some institutions.
Is it better to take the GED or HiSET?
In Florida, you have no choice — only the GED is available. For residents of other states where both options exist: the GED is generally considered more rigorous (especially in math), more widely recognized, and the stronger credential for college-bound students due to its College Ready score tiers. The HiSET can be a good option for those who prefer paper-based testing or struggle with computer-based exams. For Florida adults, the GED is the only path, and it is fully accepted everywhere the HiSET would be.
How do I obtain my GED in Florida?
Create a free account at ged.com, provide a Florida address, and schedule your first subject test ($38 per subject, $152 total for all four). If you are 16 or 17, gather your required notarized documentation first. Study using free resources from GED.com, the Florida Literacy Coalition, or enroll in a free Florida Adult Education prep class. The FLDOE GED program can be reached at (850) 245-0449 or [email protected]. Find free prep classes at: web02.fldoe.org/EducationContacts/DisplayList.aspx?list=69
Can a GED be done online in Florida?
GED preparation and study can be done fully online through GED.com, Khan Academy, and adult education programs. However, the actual GED exam cannot be taken online in Florida. The FLDOE suspended online-proctored GED testing on January 10, 2024. All test-taking must occur in person at an official Florida GED testing center.
Can I take my GED test at home?
Not in Florida. While GED Testing Service offers at-home remote-proctored testing in some other states, this option is currently suspended in Florida by the FLDOE. You must visit an official, Pearson VUE-operated GED testing center in Florida. There are over 100 such centers statewide.
Is a GED considered a high school diploma in Florida?
Yes. Florida officially calls the GED credential a ‘State of Florida High School Diploma.’ It has the same legal standing as a traditional diploma for employment, college admission, military service, and government programs in Florida. According to the Florida Literacy Coalition, the GED credential is accepted by more than 95% of U.S. employers, colleges, and universities.
Can a 16-year-old get a GED in Florida?
Yes, but 16 and 17-year-olds must complete extra steps: file a formal declaration of intent to terminate school enrollment pursuant to Section 1003.21(1)(c), Florida Statutes; submit a signed and notarized Underage Testing Form; provide proof of withdrawal from high school on official school letterhead; and obtain notarized written consent from a parent or legal guardian. All documentation must be physically presented at the test center before testing. For full details, visit fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/hse/underage-testing-info.stml
How long is the Florida GED test?
The four GED subjects together take approximately 7.5 hours of testing time: Reasoning Through Language Arts takes 150 minutes (2.5 hours, including a 10-minute break), Mathematical Reasoning takes 115 minutes (~2 hours), Science takes 90 minutes (1.5 hours), and Social Studies takes 90 minutes (1.5 hours). You do not need to take all four subjects in one day — you can spread them across multiple sessions and days, taking each subject when you feel prepared. In Florida, you can take all four in one day if a testing center’s schedule permits.
How do I request my GED Florida transcript?
After passing all four GED subjects, you automatically receive one free electronic diploma and one free electronic transcript sent to the email on your GED.com account. Additional transcripts and a printed diploma can be ordered by logging into your GED.com account, going to My Scores, and selecting Order Duplicates. For assistance, contact the FLDOE GED Program at (850) 245-0449 or [email protected]. GED Parchment support is also available at parchmentsupport.force.com/GED/s/test-takers.
Final Thoughts: GED Your Florida HiSET Alternative
If you came here looking for a Florida HiSET alternative, you now have a complete, authoritative picture: the GED is Florida’s only high school equivalency exam, and it is a strong, nationally respected credential that opens real doors. The HiSET is simply not offered in Florida — and that is not a disadvantage, because the GED is equally accepted everywhere that matters.
Whether your goal is a better job, college admission, military service, or personal achievement, Florida’s GED system — backed by free prep classes in every county, over 100 testing centers statewide, and a clear, well-established pathway to the official State of Florida High School Diploma — gives you everything you need to succeed.
| Your Action Plan — Start Today
1. Create a free GED account at ged.com and select Florida as your testing state 2. Take a free practice test to measure your starting point at ged.com/study/free-online-ged-test.html 3. Contact your nearest free Adult Education program: web02.fldoe.org/EducationContacts/DisplayList.aspx?list=69 4. Study using free resources from the Florida Literacy Coalition at floridaliteracy.org 5. Take the GED Ready practice test (~$7.99/subject) — schedule the real exam when you consistently score ‘green’ 6. Find your nearest in-person testing center: pearsonvue.com/ged/locate
Florida FLDOE GED Program: [email protected] | (850) 245-0449 | Toll-free: 1-877-352-4331 GED Technical Support: 1-877-EXAM-GED (1-877-392-6433) McFatter Technical College Adult Ed (Broward): (754) 321-5700 |