In October, first-time GED test takers who register will pay nothing to take the test, according to a press release from Chesterfield County Public Schools. The usual cost is $45; CCPS is able to offer free tests this month because the Adult Continuing Education Office received a grant from the Virginia Department of Education, the release says.

GED stands for General Educational Development, and a GED certificate is equivalent to a high school diploma, it says. In 2009, about 1,000 adults took a GED test in Chesterfield County.

Here’s how to register for a GED test:

• Preregister at www.ged123.org and print out the verification form.
• Bring that verification form and a driver’s license or other government-issued ID to the Adult Continuing Education Office at the Chesterfield Technical Center, 10101 Courthouse Road, during registration hours: 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays.
• Tests are offered each week through December, and GED seekers will select a test date during the registration process.

To pursue a GED, adults must be at least 18 and officially withdrawn from school. There is no prerequisite to taking the GED test, but a learning lab is available for GED seekers who need preparation, the release says. Registration for the learning lab costs $30, and adults who complete 60 hours of preparation will also receive a free GED test, it says.

For more information about GED tests or instruction, call 768-6140 or visit chesterfield.k12.va.us.