Getting Your Texas GED

Congratulations on taking a huge step in the right direction! Getting your Texas GED means more opportunities for advancement at work and in education. You can get that college degree or promotion you’ve always wanted. Living in Texas means you can take advantage of a more stable future with a high school equivalency diploma. As the only official site of the GED test, we’re here to take you through the process, step by step.

How to Get a GED in Texas

Listen up, Texas residents. You can earn your GEDⓇ credential in Texas as long as you’re not a current high school student or a previous graduate. You must also be at least 18 years old. You will need a parent or guardian’s permission if you're younger. In some cases, a 16-year-old may need a court order to get their GED. No one under 16 can take the test. Eligible Texans must take their test in a computer-based format. This can be either online or at an official GED test center. If you are 21 or older, you can apply for financial aid and receive vouchers. While it’s not mandatory to attend preparatory classes, it is recommended. This will help you score high enough on the GED Ready official practice test to qualify for the exam itself. First, you will need to sign up for a free account. Follow these step-by-step instructions. If you already have an account with us, log into that account now to get started. Everyone with passing scores will receive a Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency (TxCHSE). This diploma means you have achieved the same level of knowledge as any other high school graduate in Texas. Most students need 2-3 months to study and successfully prepare for this exam.

Classes and Testing Centers Near You

Do you learn more effectively and feel more motivated by taking classes in person? You’re not alone. Many people do better in a traditional learning environment. That’s why we have dozens of in-person GED classes all over Texas, providing students of every age and background with testing materials and instruction. Our in-person class offerings include:
  • Outstanding teachers
  • Supportive staff members
  • Curriculum for every kind of learner
  • Study groups with similar students
  • Times that work for your schedule
  • Professional guidance
  • Preparation
  • Experienced instructors
  • College admissions counseling
  • Practice tests and quiz reviews
Texas also provides state-of-the-art testing centers so you can securely and privately take the GED online.

GED Tests Online in Texas

In Texas, you can prepare for the GED online from home or by attending in-person classes. However, you can only take the test online. If you’re taking it online from home or at work, it’s recommended to test your system ahead of time. Make sure you have a computer, webcam, a reliable internet connection, and a quiet workspace area. Online learning programs can successfully prepare you for the exam and offer convenient times and schedules. This allows you to juggle other responsibilities, such as work or child care, while studying for the GED. You can also utilize practice quizzes and learn strategies to help you do better when taking the test. After a successful “green” score on the GED Ready practice test, you are ready for the exam! Take it from your office, home, or a nearby test center. Learn more about how to get your GED online to begin this exciting journey today. Find a testing center or in-person classes near you.
Top Policies
Top Policies

Top Policies

You must be 18 years old to test in Texas.

In Texas, you can take the GED® test if you are 16 and

  • have a government (national or foreign) issued photo ID
  • are a resident of the state
  • in the care of a state agency or under a court order or in a Job Corps training program
  • are not enrolled in school
  • are not a high school graduate
  • (See Texas Education Code)

If you are 17 and     

  • have a government (national or foreign) issued photo ID;
  • are a resident of Texas (See below for Residency Requirements);
  • are not enrolled in school (you are excepted if you are enrolled in an approved in-school GED preparation program);
  • are not a high school graduate; and
  • must have parental/guardian permission.
  • (See Texas Education Code)

 

For those testing on the Online Exam:

  • A parent or guardian must be present at the pre-test check-in to give consent and authorize the underage tester to be recorded during testing. If the parent or guardian is not present, the exam session will be revoked.

Yes, in Texas you’re required to be a resident. You can prove your residency at the testing center with a valid driver’s license or other proof of residency, such as a bill with a Texas address. If you have more questions, please contact your local testing center to learn more.

Some states allow people who don’t live there, take the GED® test and others don’t. You’ll need to check the residency requirement for the state where you are interested in testing. Please note, the credential will be issued from the state where you passed your final GED exam.

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

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center: 

  • No, you’re not required to take the GED Ready® practice test before taking the official GED® test. 

For those testing on the Online Exam: 

  • Yes, you are required to take the GED Ready® practice test before taking the official GED® test online. 

Price & Payment

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

  • Texas charges $36.25 per module for the GED® test.

What is my cost if I test Online?

  • Texas charges $42.25 per subject for the GED® test taken online (As of 9/1/21) 

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 Texas, there is no waiting period for your first two retakes. After taking a test subject 3 times, you'll have to wait 60 days before retesting. 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: 

  • You will receive two discounted retakes for every GED® test subject you purchase but don’t pass. You have 365 days after your full price test to use these retakes. After receiving two retakes at the reduced price, the price of the test subject returns to the regular price. If you do not pass that subject again, you will receive two more retakes at the reduced rate. GED Testing Service waives its $20 testing fee, however additional testing fees may still apply in your state. 
  • In Texas, there is a $16.25 test center fee for test retakes. 

For those testing on the Online Exam: (As of 9/1/21)   

  • The Online Proctored Exam costs $42.25 for a retake in Texas. Discounted retakes are not offered on the Online Proctored Exam. 

Transcripts & Diploma

You can request a printable PDF containing your State of Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency and test scores by visiting Texas GED Certificate/Transcript Search. TEA no longer mails duplicate certificates/transcripts through the U.S. Postal Service.  All record verifications and Certificate/Transcript requests must be made using the automated system. This system also allows users to search for records online, verify record authenticity, and purchase and print the certificate on their own printer.

In Texas the credential is called the State of Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency.

Other

For those testing in-person at a Testing Center:

  • Yes, in Texas 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 Texas you can test in English or Spanish and you can combine tests from 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.

Cindee Tonnesen
GED Administrator™
Texas Education Agency
William B. Travis Building
1701 North Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78701-1494