In response to informal reports that the time limitations on the new 1978 test forms of the General Educational Development (GED) Tests resulted in some examinees having to work substantially faster than at a comfortable rate, this study was designed (1) to estimate the time required for examinees to complete the tests at their preferred rate; (2) to examine the relationship of examinee age and ability to preferred work rate; and (3) to draw conclusions concerning the suitability of the time limits. This 1980 study was conducted in 40 GED Testing Centers in Wisconsin. The proposed time limits for reading, writing and mathematics tests were 60 minutes, and for social studies and science 90 minutes. Results showed that the rate at which examinees prefer to work was related to their age, ability, and the number of high school grades completed. It was least related to scores earned on the tests. The examinee showed a wide variation in work rates, with each person's relative rate being similar for all five tests in the battery. Because a substantial number failed to complete the mathematics and writing skills tests, new, extended time limits were put into effect July 1981. Directions for test administration, and various figures illustrating test results are appended. (JAZ)