Kentucky

FAQs for Earning a GED® in Kentucky

Top Policies

How old do I need to be to take the test?

You must be 19 years old to test in Kentucky.

You can take the GED® test if you are 18 and have officially withdrawn from school for at least 90 days as certified by the local school district. The local school superintendent may choose to waive this 90 day school wait period. Complete the withdrawal form.

 

For those testing on the Online Exam: 

  • Minimum age for testing Online in Kentucky is 16. 
  • Your parent/guardian must be present at the pre-test check in to give consent and authorize underage tester to be recorded during testing. If parent/guardian is not present the exam session will be revoked. 

Yes, you’re required to be a resident of the state with a Kentucky mailing address. If you have more questions about proof of residency, please contact the state office at 502-573-5114.

Some states allow people who don’t live there to take the GED® test and others don’t. You’ll need to check the residency requirement for the state that you’re interested to test in.

No, Kentucky doesn’t require you to prepare for the GED® test in an adult education classroom.

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center: 

  • Yes, you’re required to take and pass the GED Ready® practice test before scheduling your test. You may take the GED Ready® practice test for free through a local adult education center. A list of nearest centers can be found here. 

For those testing on the Online Exam: 

  • Yes, you're required to take and pass the GED Ready® practice test before taking the official GED® test online. You may take the GED Ready® practice test for free through a local adult education center. A list of nearest centers can be found here. 

Price & Payment

What is my cost if I test at a Test Center?

  • Starting July 1, 2023: Kentucky charges $36 per subject for the GED® test at a Test Center.

What is my cost if I test Online?

  • Kentucky charges $36 per subject for the GED® test via Online.

You will pay for the test online with a debit or credit card when you schedule your test.

Don’t have a credit or debit card? Some students use American Express Bluebird. Register for a free Bluebird card online and add funds with cash at a Walmart location. Learn more about Bluebird.

Test Retake Policies

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center 

  • In Kentucky, there is no waiting period if you do not pass a subject area test the first time. After taking a test subject 3 times, you'll have to wait 60 days before retesting for a fourth and any subsequent times. There's no limit to how many times you can test in a year.

For those testing on the Online Exam: 

  • The Online Proctored Exam allows for one retake before a 60 day waiting period. After taking a test subject two times online, you’ll have to wait 60 days before retesting.  

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center: 

  • Starting July 1, 2023: You will receive one discounted* retake for every GED® test subject you purchase but don’t pass. You have 365 days after your full price test to use this retake. This retake offer (1 full price:1 discount) repeats until you pass the test. GED Testing Service waives its $26 testing fee, however additional testing fees may still apply in your state.

*In Kentucky, there is a $10 test center fee for GED® test retakes.  

  • Note: We have extended the limited-time offer of up to 2 discounted retakes for exams taken in test centers, as long as both retakes are completed by June 30, 2024. 

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • The Online Proctored Exam costs $36 for a retake in Kentucky Discounted retakes are not offered on the Online Proctored Exam. 

Transcripts & Diploma

There may be additional requirements that you need to meet. We recommend contacting your state’s office at 502-573-5114 to find out more about your credential.

When you pass the GED® test in Kentucky you are automatically mailed a free diploma, transcript and information about accessing your electronic transcript. If you need to order additional transcripts, a replacement diploma or need an electronic transcript sent to a school or employer, please go to www.GED.KY.gov. A transcript is $10. A replacement diploma is $25.

In Kentucky the credential is called the Commonwealth of Kentucky High School Equivalency Diploma.

Other

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center:

  • Yes, in Kentucky you can take all test subjects in the same day if you can find a testing center with hours that accommodate it.

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • No, you must schedule your test appointments separately, one at a time. After you complete one online exam you may schedule another, based on appointment availability.

Yes, in Kentucky you can take the test in English or Spanish, however, you cannot combine two different languages to earn your credential.

It depends on whether or not that state has a residency requirement.  Check the residency requirements in that state and don’t hesitate to contact the GED Administrator in that state with questions.

John C. Gregory, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Office of Adult Education
Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet
500 Mero St #566 SC
Frankfort, KY 40601-1987
502-892-3060

How to Get a GED® in Kentucky

Earning a GED® credential in Kentucky offers the opportunity to increase your earning potential, improve your career options, and open the door to higher education opportunities. Moreover, earning your GED® credential may be easier than you’d think, especially with the proper support and tools. And, as a Kentucky resident, you may be eligible to receive GED® preparatory classes and resources, including a Kentucky GED® practice test, for free. As the official site for GED® certifications, we’re here to help you get started. Below, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to enroll in GED® classes online in Kentucky, where to find local courses and test centers, find answers to frequently asked questions, and move forward to completing the GED® test. So whether you’d like to start a new career, advance in your current one, or pursue other forms of education, you can begin working toward your goals today.

Creating Your Online Account

The first step to earning a GED® credential online is to create your free GED® account. Your GED.com account provides invaluable resources to help you study for and pass the official GED® test, including study guides, progress tracking, Kentucky GED® practice tests, and much more. Signing up for an account is easy. Just enter the email address and password you’d like to use to access your online account and follow the prompts. You’ll need to provide personal information for the account, including your name, date of birth, address, and contact information.

Classes and Testing Centers Near You

Do you learn better through classroom discussions, peer interactions, and more personalized attention and support? In-person GED® classes in Kentucky offer many benefits. The classes can help you learn the fundamentals of core GED® subjects, prepare for the GED® test, and receive guidance on test-taking strategies. You can use your GED.com account to find GED® classes and testing centers in your area. Find the closest courses and testing centers using your zip code or city and state to get started.

Online Classes

Online GED® classes are an excellent way to earn your GED® credential at your own pace and on your own schedule. You’ll have two options for online courses: live, interactive classes and pre-recorded classes. Each option provides flexibility, helps you learn the information necessary to get a passing score, and supports your preferred learning style. Additionally, you’ll gain access to various resources to help you succeed, including the GED Ready® practice test.

GED® Tests Online in Kentucky

Once you’ve completed your GED® course and earned a “green” on the GED Ready® practice test, you can schedule your online test within 60 days. To take the GED® test online, you’ll need:
  • A computer, webcam, and reliable internet connection
  • A private workspace without distractions
  • A government-issued photo ID
  • A “green” GED Ready® Score
Make sure you log in to your account 30 minutes before your scheduled test. Then, follow the on-screen prompts to verify your computer, ID, and workspace.

Ready to Earn Your GED?

Are you ready to earn your GED® credential? There’s no time like the present! Take the next step toward your personal goals and career, and schedule your GED® test today.