Testing

This information can change, please double-check sources for information, and continue to monitor sources or back here for updates.

The CDC offers an Overview of COVID-19 Tests here.

Free At-Home Tests:

You can now order a limited supply of at free at-home tests from the Federal Government by going to https://www.covidtests.gov/ or by phone at 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).

Private health insurance may reimburse the cost of purchasing self-tests. Contact your health insurance provider for more information.

If you think you are in need of a COVID-19 test, please contact your primary care provider to see if they have testing capabilities. Testing locations, requirements, results time and cost vary across providers and change frequently. Please contact 211 or search Testing Sites to find a testing resource that best meets your need.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF TEST

Questions	Molecular Test	Antigen Test	Antibody Test
What else might it be called?	PCR test, Molecular test, nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), RT-PCR test, LAMP test	Rapid diagnostic test (some molecular tests are also rapid tests)	Serological test, serology test, blood test
How is the sample collected?	Nasal or throat swab (most tests) Saliva (rare)	Nasal or throat swab	Finger stick or blood draw
How long does it take to get results?	Generally up to a week, some sites may have same day results	One hour or less	Same day or 1-3 days
Is another test needed?	This test is highly accurate and does not generally need to be repeated	Positive results are usually highly accurate, however negative results may need to be confirmed with a molecular test	Sometimes a second test is needed for accurate results
What does it test for?	Diagnoses active COVID-19 infections	Diagnoses active COVID-19 infections	Shows if you've been infected by COVID-19 in the past
What can't it do?	Show if you've had COVID-19 in the past	Definitively rule out current infection. Show if you've had COVID-19 in the past.	Diagnose active COVID-19 infections

How do I read my test results?

FDA- List of Authorized at-home COVID-19 tests