How to Obtain a Copy of a Lost GED

A GED is often accepted in lieu of a high school diploma.

The General Educational Development Test is administered at thousands of locations throughout the United States and abroad, and is broadly considered equivalent to a high school diploma. The American Council on Education administers the GED test but it does not maintain centralized records for most test-takers. Exceptions are made for tests given to military personnel, inmates in some correctional institutions and overseas test-takers. For most students, transcripts of older test results may be ordered through the local GED testing location.

Things You'll Need

• Transcript request fee

Instructions

1. Contact the GED Testing Center where you took the test. If you do not know the contact information, contact the American Council on Education. The GED Testing Center will provide you with forms and guidance on their application process to order replacement GED scores.

2. Contact the GED Testing Administrator of the state where you took the GED, if you are unable to locate the testing center. Many GED Testing Administrators provide forms to request replacement scores by mail.

3. Complete the required application for replacement test scores and submit the appropriate fee. Note that states vary regarding the submission of the fee: some will accept personal checks and credit cards, others require money orders.

Tips & Warnings

• Test-takers who completed the GED while serving in the U.S. military, living abroad or while incarcerated in prison may be eligible to request their scores directly from the American Council on Education.

References

• American Council on Education: Request a Copy of Your GED Transcript
• American Council on Education: Frequently Asked Questions
• Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education: GED Form 3