Alabama Career Essentials

Many employers, colleges, and the military require you to have a high school diploma or its equivalent (the GED®) in order to work or start college classes. Having either one will be a boost to your self-esteem and will open many doors of opportunity for you.

The GED® test costs $144 ($36 per subject). You can take one or more exam subjects at a time.

In Alabama, you can take the GED® test if you are at least 16 years old, completely withdrawn from school, and have not earned a high school diploma from a public or private high school. You can also take the GED® exam if you earned the Alabama Occupational Diploma (AOD).

If you are aged 16 or 17, you must apply for permission to take the GED® test by submitting certain documentation.

Click HERE to apply for an Age Waiver for a 16- or 17-year-old. 

While it is possible to take the GED® test without attending classes, our Adult Education instructors are ready to help you prepare. Best of all, our classes are free of charge, and you can earn opportunities to take free GED® tests and GED Ready® practice tests. Contact your local Adult Education program for more information.

If you want to take the test without taking classes, visit www.GED.com or call 1-877-EXAM-GED (392-6433). You can pay with a credit or debit card. You will need a valid photo ID on the day you test.

Typically you will receive your scores within hours of completing the test. At most it can take up to three business days, but that is uncommon.

Yes. If you need accommodations, you can request them.  Click HERE for further instructions.