How to Get a GED in Texas

Am I Eligible for a GED Diploma?

According to the Texas Education Agency (TEA), who administers the GED diploma, you must meet the following requirements in order to take the test:

• Be 18 years old
• Be a resident of Texas
• Not a high school graduate
• Not enrolled in an accredited high school
• Have a government-issued ID

In addition, you may take the GED test as early as 17 by meeting the above requirements and with the permission of your parent or guardian. You're also allowed to test at 16 by meeting the general requirements and by being in the care of a state agency or under a court order. Check with the TEA for more specific information regarding eligibility for 16 and 17-year-olds.

Where Can I Take the GED Test?

The GED cannot be taken online. It must be taken at a testing center approved by the TEA. You can find a testing center by visiting the TEA website and looking through an index by city. You can also use a link to the GED Testing Service website and find your testing center by entering a zip code. Tests are offered at various times, morning through evening, as well as on Saturdays. Some centers offer the GED in Spanish and English.

What Subjects Will I Be Tested On?

The American Council on Education determines what's on the standard national GED exam. The tests are divided into five content areas: reading, writing, science, social studies and mathematics. The questions are multiple-choice, with one written essay. Additionally, you're allowed to use a calculator provided by the test center for part of the math test.

Can I Retake the Test?

The GED Testing Service sets a total passing score at 2250, which averages to 450 on each of the five tests. In addition, a score of at least 410 is required on each content area test.

If you receive at least a 410 on each of the tests, you may retest at any time. If you receive a score less than 410 on any single exam, you must wait six months to retest. To avoid the waiting period, you must get a request letter from a state-certified GED preparation program or private tutor.