Here is how to get your GED in New York: confirm that you meet the state's age and residency rules, prepare for the four subjects, and pass each one at a test center. New York State does not charge test takers for GED subtests, so its rules are strict, but your biggest test costs are already covered.
This guide uses New York's policy page on GED.com. Check it and the New York State Education Department before you register, as rules can change.
New York GED Eligibility
Age
GED.com says you must be 19 years old to test in New York. If you are 16 to 18, you need approval first. You must complete an Age Eligibility form, have an authorized institutional official sign it and mail it to the NYSED High School Equivalency Office. Allow enough time for this before you plan a test date.
Residency
You must have been a New York State resident for at least 30 calendar days. You must also prove your identity and residency at the time of testing.
Accepted ID
GED.com lists two ways to meet the ID requirement:
- Option 1: A valid, government-issued ID with your New York address, such as a driver's license or state ID.
- Option 2: A government-issued ID with an out-of-state address or no address, such as a passport, plus a document proving New York residency. It must be dated at least 30 calendar days before your appointment. A utility bill or a signed lease are examples.
What Does the GED Cost in New York?
New York State does not charge test takers to take GED subtests. Your other costs could include practice tests, books or tutoring. A GED Ready practice test is sold separately through GED.com, and it is a useful way to check your readiness.
New York's GED Retake Rules
New York's retake rules are stricter than those of many states, so preparation really matters:
- Waiting period: You must wait 60 days before scheduling a subject you failed.
- Annual limit: You may take a given subject only three times per calendar year.
- No retests for a better score: You cannot retake a subject you have already passed to try for a higher score.
Since a failed attempt means a two-month wait, make sure you are consistently scoring well on practice tests before you book.
Other Paths to a New York Diploma
New York has more than one route to a High School Equivalency diploma. Sources describe a pathway that lets some candidates use passing Regents exam scores from high school in place of matching GED subjects. If you passed Regents exams, ask your local adult education program or NYSED whether you qualify. It may reduce the number of tests you need to take.
What You Need to Pass
You must score at least 145 out of 200 on each of the four GED subjects:
- Mathematical Reasoning: 115 minutes, including instructions and a short break
- Reasoning Through Language Arts: 150 minutes, including a 45-minute essay
- Science: 90 minutes
- Social Studies: 70 minutes
Can You Take the GED Online in New York?
New York's GED.com policy page refers to in-person test centers and does not say whether online testing is available. Check the current status on GED.com or ask NYSED before you plan to test from home. Our guide to the GED test at home explains how online testing works in states that offer it.
How to Get Your GED in New York, Step by Step
- Step 1: Check your age and residency. If you are under 19, start the Age Eligibility form.
- Step 2: Gather your ID and proof of residency.
- Step 3: Ask whether any Regents scores could count toward your diploma.
- Step 4: Create an account on GED.com and take a practice test.
- Step 5: Study one subject at a time.
- Step 6: Schedule your tests, and pass all four subjects to earn your diploma.
Prepare for the GED in New York
Because of New York's 60-day wait, it pays to be ready the first time. We work online with students across New York, and you can see more on our New York GED prep page. Try our GED practice test with answers, or read about working with a private GED tutor. You can compare options on the pricing page.
You take the real test yourself, under GED Testing Service rules. When you are ready, order GED prep online or call or WhatsApp +1 (217) 426-5403.