Check your state's regulations. In most jurisdictions you have to be 18 years old and be out of school for a least a year. It varies from state to state, however, and in some places -- such as Illinois -- you can take the GED test at 17. You cannot already have a high school diploma.
Register for the GED online. Go to the GED Hotline and follow the instructions to find out where the next exam is being held in your area. The GED tests are held in many locations, so the changes of finding one near you are good. If you live in a rural area, you may have to travel to a city if you want to take a GED test within, say, a week.
Organize your identification. You will have to produce proof of residency, a Social Security card and a withdrawal letter from the last high school you attended if you have been out of school for less than a year.
Get a GED preparation book. You can sign one out from the local library or buy one at a book store. This book will help you study for the exam and make you familiar with the format.
Set up a study schedule of eight to 10 hours a day. Even if you only have a few days to prepare, you can accomplish a lot if you organize your time and stay focused on studying.
Assess your strengths and weaknesses. If you find that you math skills are fine, but that you aren't doing well in science or social studies, concentrate on those areas.
Hire a tutor. With only a few days to prepare, the investment of having someone there to help you study and keep you on track might make the difference between passing and failing the GED.
Arrive early and prepared to take your GED. You have worked hard for a few days, so be confident that you will pass. As well as your identification and withdrawal letter from the school, take pens, pencils and paper.