Self

For doing rapid COVID-19 tests anywhere

Self-tests for COVID-19 give rapid results and can be taken anywhere.

Test Yourself If…

Test Yourself If…

Timing

Timing

You have any COVID-19 symptoms

You have any COVID-19 symptoms

Test Immediately.

If you test negative for COVID-19 using an at-home antigen test, repeat* the test again 48 hours after your first test. Also, consider consulting a healthcare provider to see if you need to be tested for another viral infection or illness. Follow precautions on how to protect yourself and others.

Test Immediately.

If you test negative for COVID-19 using an at-home antigen test, repeat* the test again 48 hours after your first test. Also, consider consulting a healthcare provider to see if you need to be tested for another viral infection or illness. Follow precautions on how to protect yourself and others.

You were exposed to someone with COVID-19

You were exposed to someone with COVID-19

Test at least 5 full days after your exposure.

If you test negative for COVID-19 using an at-home antigen test, repeat* the test again 48 hours after your first test. If both tests are negative, then repeat testing after another 48 hours for a total of three tests.

Test at least 5 full days after your exposure.

If you test negative for COVID-19 using an at-home antigen test, repeat* the test again 48 hours after your first test. If both tests are negative, then repeat testing after another 48 hours for a total of three tests.

*You may get a PCR test as an alternative to repeat testing.

Testing can be helpful even when you don’t have symptoms or a recent exposure to COVID-19, such as before an event or visiting someone. Test as close to the time of the event as possible (at least within 1-2 days) to help you make informed decisions about your health and your risk of spreading COVID-19 to others.

» Learn what to do if you test positive or test negative.

Watch Video: When To Use a Self-Test [00:03:36]

Read the complete manufacturer’s instructions for use before using the test.

Watch Video: How To Use a Self-Test [00:02:03]

A positive COVID-19 test means the virus was detected and you have an infection.

Watch Video: What to Do If Your Self-Test Result Is Positive [00:02:30]

A negative COVID-19 test means the test did not detect the virus, but this doesn’t rule out that you could have an infection. See FDA instructions on repeat testing.

Watch Video: What to Do If Your Self-Test Result Is Negative [00:02:41]

Positive results from self-tests are highly reliable.

Negative results from self-tests don’t rule out that you could have an infection. See FDA instructions on repeat testing.

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-19 home tests can be safely and privately reported at MakeMyTestCount.org. Healthcare providers can ensure that those who have tested positive for COVID-19 receive the most appropriate medical care, including specific treatments if necessary.

In certain jurisdictions, healthcare providers who diagnose COVID-19 are required to report those cases to public health.