Find out if you qualify to take the GED test. You have to be a Missouri resident and 18 years of age or older to take the GED. However, eligible 16- or 17-year-olds may also take the exam, according to the Department of Elementary & Secondary Education.
Obtain a GED application by downloading it from the website listed in the Resources. You can also get an application from most high school guidance offices, libraries, all GED testing sites and Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) centers. Or, you may request that an application be mailed to you by calling 573-751-3504.
Complete and mail the application along with a $20 money order made payable to "Treasurer State of Missouri" to:
GED Office
P.O. Box 480
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480
Once approved, the GED office will send a "GED Testing Authorization" and a list of AEL centers and testing sites to you.
Visit an AEL center (see Resources for locations). While you're there, complete a demographic form (information packet) and take a sample GED test. To prepare for the exam, you can either study on your own or take classes (see Resources for an online program for Missouri residents).
Locate the closest GED testing center to you (see Resources for a list of test sites). Contact the center to make an appointment to take the GED.
Show up on your scheduled date to take the test. Bring the following to the test site: GED Testing Authorization; $20 in cash or money order; demographic form and current Missouri identification (driver's license or state-issued ID).
Request that official transcripts be sent to you, your employer or college by mailing a completed "GED Transcript Request" form and the appropriate fees to the GED Testing Office once you have achieved a passing score on the exam (see Resources for the form).