HiSET and GED Eligibility Requirements
Tennessee gives you more than one way to earn your High School Equivalency Diploma. You can choose the HiSET or the GED, and getting started is easier than you think! Here are the rules and steps to help you begin your journey.
Who Can Take the HiSET or GED?
1. Age Requirement
You can take the test if you are 18 or older and don’t already have a high school diploma.
If you’re 17, you’ll need a special Age Waiver form. It must be signed by your school director, a leader at your private school, or your parent/guardian if you are home-schooled.
Once it’s filled out, you can upload it online through the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Upload the completed form using this link: Submit a Request.
2. Residency
You do not have to live in Tennessee to take the test here!
3. Identification
On test day, bring a government-issued ID, like a driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
Your ID must show your name, address, birthday, photo, and signature. It must also be current—no expired IDs allowed.
4. Make Your Account
You'll need to create an account before signing up for the exam:
- HiSET: Create a myHiSET Account
- GED: Create a GED Account
Free HiSET or GED Exams
You might be able to take your exam for free with a voucher from your local Adult Education program.
Not every program offers vouchers, but all programs funded by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development do.
You can look up the program closest to you to learn more.
Class Options
Tennessee has both in-person and online classes to help you get ready for the HiSET.
These classes teach math, reading, writing, and English skills — all the things you need to feel confident on test day.
Want help finding a program? Call the Adult Education Division at 1-800-531-1515.
Voucher Program
Tennessee’s HiSET Voucher Program pays for the whole exam for Tennessee residents. To get a voucher, you must:
- Live in Tennessee
- Take and pass a practice test that shows you’re ready
No matter which path you choose, you can do this — and Tennessee is here to help you every step of the way!
Visit Adult Education main page.
Adult Education, as part of the Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act (WIOA), provides services to adults to build the knowledge and skills necessary for high school equivalency, employment, post-secondary opportunities, and economic self-sustainability.
La Educación para Adultos, como parte de la Ley de Oportunidades e Innovaciones Laborales (WIOA), brinda servicios a adultos para desarrollar el conocimiento y las habilidades necesarias para la equivalencia de escuela secundaria, empleo, oportunidades postsecundarias y autosostenibilidad económica. Para aplicar, llame a su programa local.
Find out how to get enrolled in Adult Education!
For adult students in Tennessee, the pathway toward attaining their High School Equivalency Diploma has never had so many options to meet their needs. Learn more about the different exams that can be taken and applied toward HSE Diploma attainment.
Learn about the HiSET and GED exams and their eligibility requirements and how adult learners can earn a High School Equivalency Diploma in Tennessee.
Learn about programs nearest you for Adult Basic Education (ABE) or English as a Second Language (ESL). Thank you for your interest in furthering your education here in Tennessee.
Request a copy of your diploma or transcripts.
This section includes policies, guidance, and other resources for local Adult Education providers. Resources cover program management, data and performance, and workforce development.
The Workforce, Education & Reentry Tablet Program provides electronic tablet usage to people incarcerated in county jails across Tennessee for the purpose of workforce, education, and personal development at no cost to the user.
Submit a request to receive more information about Adult Education services.