How to Schedule Your GED Test Online: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Scheduling the GED test is surprisingly simple once you know the process — but first-timers often get confused by account setup, testing options, and state-specific fees. This guide walks you through every step so you can go from "I want to take the GED" to "I'm scheduled" in under 30 minutes.

Before You Start: What You Need

• A valid email address
• Your mailing address
• A credit or debit card for payment (unless your state offers free testing)
• A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)

Step 1: Create Your GED.com Account

1. Go to ged.com and click "Sign Up" in the top right corner
2. Enter your name, email, date of birth, and create a password
3. Verify your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox
4. Log in to your new account

Important: The name on your GED account must exactly match the name on your government-issued ID. If there's a mismatch, you won't be allowed to test.

Step 2: Complete Your Profile

After creating your account, you'll be prompted to fill in additional information:

• Your mailing address (used to find nearby testing centers)
• Your education history (highest grade completed)
• Why you're taking the GED (employment, college, personal)

This information is used for demographic purposes and to match you with relevant resources. It does not affect your eligibility.

Step 3: Take the GED Ready® Practice Test (Recommended)

Before scheduling the real test, GED.com offers the GED Ready® practice test for $6.99 per subject. This is the only practice test that accurately predicts whether you'll pass the real exam.

Your score will fall into one of three categories:

• 🔴 Red — "Not Likely to Pass" → Keep studying before scheduling
• 🟢 Green — "Likely to Pass" → You're ready to schedule
• 🟢+ Green Plus — "Likely to Pass + College Ready" → You may earn college credit

Step 4: Choose Your Testing Option

The GED offers two ways to take the test:

Option A: In-Person Testing (Pearson VUE Center)

• Take the test at a Pearson VUE testing center near you
• Testing centers are located in most cities and many suburban areas
• You'll test on a center-provided computer with on-site proctoring
• Best for: People who want a distraction-free, dedicated testing environment

Option B: Online Proctored Testing (From Home)

• Take the test on your own computer with a live proctor watching via webcam
• Available in most (but not all) states — check availability on ged.com
• Computer requirements: Webcam, microphone, stable internet (3+ Mbps), Windows or Mac
• Room requirements: Private room, clear desk, no other people present
• Best for: People without easy access to a testing center, or who prefer testing from home

Step 5: Select Your Subject and Date

The GED has four subject tests. You can take them one at a time in any order:

1. Mathematical Reasoning (115 minutes)
2. Reasoning Through Language Arts (150 minutes)
3. Science (90 minutes)
4. Social Studies (70 minutes)

Which to take first? Most students start with whichever subject they feel most confident in. Passing one subject first builds momentum and confidence for the others.

After selecting a subject, you'll see available dates and times. Most centers have openings within 1–2 weeks. Popular weekend slots fill up faster, so book early if you need a Saturday.

Step 6: Pay the Test Fee

GED test fees vary by state:

Step 7: Prepare for Test Day

For In-Person Testing:

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Bring your government-issued photo ID (name must match your GED account)
• You cannot bring: phones, bags, notes, food, or drinks into the testing room
• A calculator and whiteboard/scratchpad will be provided
• You can take a break between sections if testing multiple subjects

For Online Testing:

• Run the system requirements check on ged.com at least 24 hours before your test
• Clear your desk completely — only your computer and ID allowed
• Close all other applications on your computer
• Ensure your room is private and well-lit (the proctor will do a room scan)
• Have your photo ID ready — the proctor will verify it via webcam
• Test your webcam and microphone before your appointment

Frequently Asked Questions