Watch Video: How To Use a Self-Test []. A positive COVID test means the virus was detected and you have an infection. Watch Video: What to Do If Your Self-Test Result Is Positive []. See FDA instructions on repeat testing. Watch Video: What to Do If Your Self-Test Result Is Negative [].

Invalid results from self-tests mean the test did not work properly, and you need to take a new test to get an accurate result. CDC strongly encourages everyone who uses a self-test to report any positive results to their healthcare provider.

COVID home tests can be safely and privately reported at MakeMyTestCount. Healthcare providers can ensure that those who have tested positive for COVID receive the most appropriate medical care, including specific treatments if necessary.

In certain jurisdictions, healthcare providers who diagnose COVID are required to report those cases to public health.

Skip directly to site content Skip directly to search. Español Other Languages. Restart ×. Important update: Healthcare facilities.

CDC has updated select ways to operate healthcare systems effectively in response to COVID vaccination. Learn more. Find the latest information: Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People COVID Homepage.

Self-Testing At Home or Anywhere Self-Testing At Home or Anywhere. Updated Sept. Minus Related Pages. Free COVID Tests Visit COVIDTests.

gov to order 4 additional free FDA-authorized COVID tests. Order Your Tests Today! What is a Self-Test or At-Home Test?

These are different from laboratory-based PCR tests or self-collected samples that are sent to a laboratory; these may take days to return your result. Although self-tests are usually faster, they are not as good at detecting the virus as PCR tests, meaning you might get a false negative result.

FDA recommends people who get an initial negative result on an antigen test, take at least one more test 48 hours later. Self-tests are more likely to detect the virus if you have symptoms. You may get a PCR test as an alternative to repeat testing. Self-tests, along with vaccination and prevention actions , can help you protect yourself and others.

When To Take an At-Home COVID Test Test Yourself If…. Test Yourself If Test Immediately. You were exposed to someone with COVID Test at least 5 full days after your exposure. How to Get an At-Home COVID Test Order Four 4 free at-home COVID tests available for U.

households through the federal government at COVID. You may be able to buy rapid tests from a local or online pharmacy using insurance including Medicaid or get reimbursed.

Need an on-site test? These locations in North Carolina may offer PCR or rapid tests at low- or no-cost :. Check our Frequently Asked Questions for more information. Free resource: Download and share our testing guidance flyer.

More testing flyers to download and share. Version en Español Did you know you can get free COVID home tests? Get the free tests now so you're prepared for holiday travel and gatherings.

Find where to pick up free tests near you: Go Please enter a 5 digit zip code You must be 14 or older to pick up tests. More Testing Options. More Testing Options Feeling sick and need to test quickly? Don't have insurance? You may have access to free tests through a free nationwide telemedicine program.

You may be eligible to have your COVID vaccine, testing and treatment covered at no-cost by Medicaid. Apply online. These locations in North Carolina may offer PCR or rapid tests at low- or no-cost : CVS Health Local independent pharmacies Walgreens Walmart in partnership with Quest Diagnostics A local health center Please call ahead to make an appointment.

Your local health department.