Planning to travel soon? Here’s where you can quickly get a COVID-19 test.
If you've recently tried to get a COVID-19 test for travel or just for peace of mind, you may have encountered some long delays.
The Omicron variant has complicated travel plans, and depending on your location, getting tested has become a major challenge — in some cases, even impossible. Some testing providers are facing shortages, and in cities like New York, long lines have formed as people scramble for tests.
Sadly, COVID-19 testing continues to be a necessary part of life during these times.
Earlier this year, some countries relaxed testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers as more people got their COVID-19 shots. However, depending on your destination and the spread of Omicron, a negative test may still be needed, especially if you’re unvaccinated or traveling with children who haven’t received their shots.
If you're looking for a COVID-19 test for travel, you might have questions about where to get tested, which type of test you'll need, how long it will take to secure an appointment and get results, and how much it will cost. To make your planning easier, we've looked into testing options in 25 major metropolitan areas. We discovered that some tests are completely free, while others may require a copay or be covered by insurance. In some cases, full payment might be necessary if the test is for travel purposes rather than symptoms or exposure.
Certain destinations require a negative PCR test taken within a specific timeframe, usually 72 hours, before your flight. Many testing centers can deliver results within 48 to 72 hours, but this timeline can sometimes vary, especially now.
Remember, some testing locations only provide results over the phone, which likely won't meet the requirements for boarding a flight or entering another country.
What kind of COVID-19 test do you need?
(Photo by Brittany Murray/MediaNews Group/Long Beach Press-Telegram via Getty Images)Antigen test, rapid test, PCR test, RT-PCR test, antibody test, take-home test – if you've taken a COVID-19 test during the pandemic, you might be confused by the wide range of options available.
Trying to keep track of which COVID-19 test you need can feel overwhelming. Not all tests are the same, and not every test is suitable for international travel.
For travel, you'll typically need a PCR test (polymerase chain reaction). These are the most reliable for detecting active COVID-19 infections and are considered the gold standard. In this guide, we’ll focus on testing sites offering these accurate PCR tests, but note that certain destinations, like Hawaii, only accept PCR tests from specific providers.
Tests that are unlikely to help with travel include antibody tests, which detect previous COVID-19 infections and the resulting antibodies. Some destinations also do not accept rapid antigen tests, which detect viral proteins. While these tests are fast, they are less accurate than PCR tests and are not valid for entry into countries like Canada.
See if you can find a rapid PCR test option.
While PCR tests typically take around 72 hours for results, some urgent care centers offer 'rapid PCR tests' that can provide results in as little as 30 minutes. However, keep in mind that these faster options might come with a higher price tag, as they may not be covered by insurance.
Here are some rapid PCR testing options to consider:
- COVIDCheck in San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Denver. Results in 6 hours for RT-PCR tests. Cost: $349
- Complete Health Partners in Nashville, Tennessee. Results in 30-45 minutes. Cost: $250, not covered by insurance.
- DMCovid-19 Test offers nationwide travel PCR testing (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) with nine physical locations. Cost: Varies by location and type (in-home or in-office).
- Elite Medical Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Results in 24 hours. Cost: $250
- Frontage Laboratory in Exton, Pennsylvania (near Philadelphia). Results in 6 hours for RT-PCR tests. Cost: $203
- Medical Offices of Manhattan in New York City. Same-day results. Cost: $175, excluding consultation.
- Saguaro Bloom in Scottsdale, Arizona. 90-minute and 24-hour RT-PCR tests available. Cost: $299 for 90-minute, $149 for 24-hour turnaround.
- Test Well in Reno, Nevada, and South Lake Tahoe, California. Same-day RT-PCR tests for travel. Cost: $149 (insurance reimbursement available).
- Urgent Medical Care and MRI in Jersey City, New Jersey. Results in under an hour for travelers needing documentation. Cost: $300, not covered by insurance.
- Venistat Mobile Labs in New York City. Results in under 24 hours. Cost: $125 with insurance, $190 without insurance.
- WeTestU in San Diego, California. Mobile RT-PCR testing for travel. Cost: $159 for 24-hour turnaround, $199 for 24-hour, $259 for same-day (8-hour), $329 for 1-hour turnaround.
- Worksite Labs provides PCR results within 24 hours at 20 U.S. airports. Cost: $90
COVID-19 testing at your local pharmacy
If you're in an area with limited testing sites, your local drugstore might be a good option for getting tested.
You'll find several major pharmacy chains on the list of places offering COVID-19 tests, including CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. These stores often provide PCR testing at no extra charge if you're using insurance or qualify for certain federal programs for the uninsured.
Passport Health also operates clinics in over 100 locations across the country, mainly for individuals who need a negative PCR test to travel or return to school.
The best part is that you can schedule these appointments online, saving time and avoiding long waits. Many locations even offer drive-up testing, allowing you to swab yourself without leaving your vehicle.
Turnaround times can vary depending on the chain and location:
- CVS: PCR test results typically arrive within one to two days.
- Walgreens: Turnaround depends on when the sample reaches the lab.
- Rite Aid: Results can take anywhere from 125 minutes to two to five days.
Several third-party companies, including Color and Curative, have partnered with major cities like Houston and San Francisco to offer widespread COVID-19 testing. These companies typically provide results within one to three days.
City-provided COVID-19 testing
(Photo by Oli Kellett/Getty Images)As the new variant spreads, more cities are providing free rapid COVID-19 tests to their residents.
New York City announced it would distribute 500,000 free at-home COVID-19 tests and 1 million high-quality KN95 masks through community organizations. In Washington, D.C., residents can pick up at-home COVID-19 testing kits at select libraries. The White House has also pledged to distribute 500 million free rapid tests to Americans.
While these tests may not be approved for travel, they can still offer peace of mind before or during your trip.
COVID-19 testing for children
Many destinations no longer require testing for fully vaccinated travelers. However, vaccinated adults traveling with unvaccinated children may face different entry requirements. That said, many countries (even those with strict vaccine policies) accept proof of a negative COVID-19 test for children who are ineligible for vaccination.
If you need a COVID-19 test for a child, several nationwide drugstore chains offer testing for younger patients. CVS and Walgreens provide tests for kids aged 3 and up, while Rite Aid offers free testing for children 4 and older.
Now, some children may be able to skip COVID-19 testing if they are vaccinated, making travel much easier. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has been officially approved for children ages 5 to 11 by the FDA and CDC, while the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are currently only available to those 18 and older.
At-home COVID-19 tests
Earlier this spring, the CDC expanded its testing program for international travel to the U.S., allowing airlines to accept at-home instant tests with remote supervision.
This is great news for travelers heading to the U.S. from locations with limited testing options. U.S.-bound travelers can now use self-tests (also called home tests) such as NAAT or antigen tests with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA, as long as the test includes real-time telehealth supervision. Here are some popular options:
- Abbott's BinaxNOW COVID-19 Home Test is available through eMed or Optum and is CDC-approved for U.S. travel. Abbott also offers a rapid test in drugstores, but it isn’t proctored and isn’t valid for travel.
- Amazon's COVID-19 Test Collection Kit DTC is FDA-authorized and priced at $39.99.
- Cue Health promises results in just 20 minutes and can detect the Omicron variant. FDA-authorized for at-home use, it’s suitable for travel. Cue Health offers two options: the Cue+ Essential membership starting at $49.99 per month (with a more expensive plan at $89.99), or a one-time purchase of a pack of three or 10 tests, starting at $225.
Mail-in COVID-19 testing
There are several mail-in and at-home COVID-19 testing providers available. However, some may not be valid in all states or situations.
Most providers won’t bill your insurance, although Pixel is one exception. Testing options range from nasal swabs to saliva samples, and some tests require a Zoom appointment. All of these tests are gold-standard PCR tests, which are highly reliable.
A few of these testing companies have partnered with airlines and the state of Hawaii as approved providers, making them legitimate testing options for travel to Hawaii. If your airline offers mail-in testing options valid for your destination, it’s worth using their system to prioritize your sample in the lab’s testing queue.
Here are some popular mail-in COVID-19 testing programs:
- Everlywell: Nasal swab results available within 24 to 48 hours after the lab receives the sample. For ages 18+, costing $82.
- Pixel by LabCorp: Nasal swab results available one to two days after arriving at the lab. Available for those 18+, with no upfront cost if eligible for insurance or federal funds, or $119 if not.
- Vault: Saliva test results via a Zoom call available within 24 to 48 hours. Available for both children and adults, costing $119.
- Azova: Available at Costco.com. Saliva test results via Zoom call are ready within 12 to 48 hours. Approved for travel to Hawaii and Bermuda, priced at $118.99.
- OnSight Safe: PCR saliva test results available within 48 hours after lab receipt, with expedited processing options. Available nationwide for children and adults, with physical locations in New York City, Tampa, and Van Nuys, California. Prices start at $127.95.
In-home COVID-19 tests
(Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)In addition to at-home tests, some providers offer a concierge service, where a technician will come directly to your home, apartment, or hotel to administer a test.
In-home testing provides the convenience of avoiding long lines. While we’re referring to it as in-home testing, some services also offer on-site testing at offices for large groups.
One of the top services is Welz, which provides same-day in-home rapid testing in New York, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles, with results in just 15 minutes. Even better, it’s free if you have health insurance or even if you’re uninsured.
In-home tests and concierge services are typically accepted for travel, as long as they meet CDC guidelines and you receive either a digital or physical copy of your results. However, make sure the test you take is approved by the destination you're traveling to.
How long will it take to get test results?
For most destinations that require a negative COVID-19 test for entry or to avoid quarantine, the test must be taken within 72 hours prior to departure or arrival. In some cases, this window may be even shorter.
While there are exceptions, most COVID-19 tests will provide results within one to three days across the country.
If timely results are critical for your trip, you may need to look for PCR testing sites offering same-day results or rapid PCR tests that are analyzed on-site. Several facilities have experienced delays due to high demand, so research in advance is recommended.
COVID-19 testing at airports
(Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)Several U.S. airports now provide rapid COVID-19 tests for travelers, particularly those flying to certain destinations. This can be a convenient option if you're able to get to the airport a day or two before your departure.
However, it's not recommended to wait until you're at the airport to get tested, as isolation in a connecting city for two weeks could be costly and inconvenient.
Some of the U.S. airports currently offering COVID-19 testing services include:
- Anchorage International Airport: Free testing available for both residents and non-residents at ANC.
- Bradley International Airport: Open daily. If your insurance doesn’t cover the test, it costs $125. Results usually take up to 72 hours, but may take longer. Testing is available only to passengers flying from Connecticut’s Bradley Airport (BDL) on the day of their flight.
- Burlington International Airport: Testing is available Monday through Friday at Vermont’s BTV airport. Same-day results or results in 36-48 hours are provided, with appointments recommended. Fees may apply.
- Dallas – Fort Worth International Airport: American Airlines travelers can get a rapid test at DFW on their travel day for $139, with results in about 15 minutes.
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport: Testing available from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Rapid PCR tests cost $179, PCR tests are $106, and rapid antigen tests are $74. Rapid antigen results in 30 minutes, rapid PCR in 45 minutes, and PCR tests return in 48 hours.
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport: Tests via the Minnesota Department of Health and Vault Health use saliva samples and are free for Minnesota residents; $94 for others, with results in 48 hours. Wandertest offers Antigen, NAAT, and PCR tests with results in under an hour, ranging from $99 to $199.
- New York-LaGuardia: Free PCR testing available in LGA’s Terminal B parking garage with results provided by phone in 48 hours. However, this option is not suitable for travel documentation since results are verbal.
- Oakland International Airport: OAK offers two testing centers: one at the airport and another drive-up location. Only passengers traveling to Hawaii are encouraged to use the service. Appointments required. $120 lab fee for expedited processing and a $20 administrative fee for Hawaii travel documentation.
- San Francisco International Airport: Travelers flying United Airlines to Hawaii and select Central/South American and Caribbean destinations can arrange a mail-in PCR test. Results arrive in 24-48 hours at a cost of $119.
- XpresCheck: With several airport locations across the U.S., XpresCheck offers PCR tests by appointment or walk-up. Costs vary. Rapid molecular NAAT tests return results in 30-60 minutes for $200 (insurance not accepted). Standard PCR tests return results in 48-96 hours for $75 (insurance accepted for lab fees only). Rapid PCR tests deliver results in 30-60 minutes for $250.
Hotels providing COVID-19 tests
Many hotels and resorts worldwide now offer on-site COVID-19 testing for their guests. If you're staying at a hotel, it’s worth checking if they provide this service, as it can save you time and hassle. In some cases, the test may even be free of charge.
COVID-19 testing required for U.S. entry
(Photo by Elijah Nouvelage/Bloomberg/Getty Images)When returning to the United States from abroad, a negative COVID-19 test result is required before boarding your flight.
In response to the omicron variant, the White House shortened the testing window, meaning travelers will need to arrange their COVID-19 tests closer to their departure time.
All travelers – vaccinated or not – must get a viral test within one day of departure to the U.S. Even vaccinated individuals must present a negative result before boarding. However, some exceptions apply: travelers returning from U.S. territories, those entering via land borders (like Mexico or Canada), and flight crew members are exempt from this requirement.
Unvaccinated travelers face additional testing requirements and restrictions
More cities are adopting Europe’s lead by mandating proof of vaccination for specific activities. For example, some locations in Los Angeles now require proof of vaccination to dine indoors, and New York City was the first U.S. city to implement such a mandate.
As of August 17, the mandate applies to everyone aged 5 and up. Unvaccinated residents of New York are now barred from participating in various indoor activities, such as dining, fitness, and entertainment.
Following New York, cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C. have also enacted similar vaccine mandates.
Vaccine passports
Photo by portishead1/Getty ImagesTravelers might need to utilize digital health credentials or vaccine passports to enter certain countries or bypass stringent testing and quarantine rules. These passports aren’t just for proving COVID-19 vaccination status—they can also verify negative COVID-19 test results.
For example, New Yorkers can utilize the Excelsior Pass if they've had a negative PCR test within the past three days in New York, or if they received a negative antigen test in the last six hours within the state.
Clear's Health Pass feature is used to verify negative COVID-19 tests for entry into some sports venues and to approve travelers for quarantine-free entry into Hawaii. CommonPass is an independent application that tracks a user's COVID-19 status and validates their identity. Additionally, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) collaborates with numerous airlines globally on its Travel Pass app, which contains verified test and vaccination records.
City-by-city guide on where to get a COVID-19 test
Finding a trustworthy location to get a PCR test for travel with quick results can be tricky, depending on your location in the U.S.
Since conditions change rapidly, it's essential to contact testing sites directly to confirm their current status. However, to help you get started, the following testing locations may meet your travel requirements. If you know of a location that should be added or removed, or if you're a healthcare provider conducting PCR tests, please email [email protected].
Where to find a COVID-19 test in Atlanta, Georgia
Community Organized Relief Effort
- Multiple testing locations across Georgia, including Atlanta.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: Free of charge.
- Appointment: Walk-up and drive-thru testing available, but sites may close early once the 500-test daily limit is reached.
- Results: Usually ready within 72 hours.
Summit Urgent Care
- Multiple locations in the Atlanta metro area.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: Most insurance accepted, no copay for virtual consultations.
- Appointment: No appointment necessary.
- Results: Typically available within 3 to 5 days.
Peachtree Immediate Care
- Multiple locations across the Atlanta metropolitan area.
- Operating hours: Drive-thru sites open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., although some may be closed on weekends.
- Cost: Typically no copay or deductible with most insurance plans, or a $175 self-pay option available.
- Appointment: Required.
- Results: Generally available within three days.
Viral Solutions
- Various testing locations in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: No out-of-pocket expense with insurance.
- Appointment: Not necessary.
- Results: Available within two days.
ARCpoint Labs of Atlanta-Northeast
- 3635 Savannah Place Drive, Suite 450-B Duluth, Georgia
- Operating hours: Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Pricing: $169 for a lab-based PCR test, $249 for a rapid PCR test. Self-pay only.
- Appointment required: Yes, but same-day appointments are available.
- Results: Rapid PCR tests are completed in under two hours, while lab-based PCR tests typically take 48 hours.
COVID-19 testing options in the Bay Area, California
My Doctor Medical Group
- 450 Sutter Street, Suite 840, San Francisco, California
- Hours: Vary depending on the location.
- Cost: $240 for a consultation and swab collection, $125 additional for expedited next-day PCR results, $35 for extra travel documentation (in addition to lab report) if needed.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Results: Ready by 5 p.m. the next day after sample collection.
McCampbell Analytical
- 1534 Willow Pass Road, Pittsburg, California
- Operating hours: Daily from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
- Pricing: Results in 3 hours are $699, 5-hour results cost $450, same-day results are available for $199, and next-day results are $129.
- Appointment needed: Yes.
- Result times: As mentioned above.
Color
- Embarcadero location at Piers 30/32, Bryant and Embarcadero.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Pricing: Free of charge.
- Appointment needed: Yes.
- Result times: 1 to 3 days.
Alameda Health Systems
- Multiple locations across Alameda County.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Pricing: Covered by insurance.
- Appointment needed: Yes.
- Result times: 2 to 3 days.
County of Santa Clara
- Multiple testing sites across Santa Clara County.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Pricing: No initial charges.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Result time: Varies by location.
Downtown Medical Group
- 450 Sutter Street, Suite 1723, San Francisco, California
- Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Pricing: $225 for next-day results, $300 for same-day results.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Result time: As mentioned above.
Where to find a COVID-19 test in Boston, Massachusetts
Tufts Medical Center
- 276 Tremont Street, Boston, Massachusetts
- Operating hours: Monday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Cost: $135 if insurance doesn't cover the test.
- Appointment needed: Yes.
- Results: Typically within 24 to 72 hours.
CareWell Urgent Care
- Located at Cambridge Inman Square, 1400 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Hours: Open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Cost: Covered by insurance, or $160 if paying out of pocket.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround: Varies.
Where to find a COVID-19 test in Charlotte, North Carolina
BetterMed Urgent Care – Charlotte
- Multiple locations available throughout Charlotte.
- Hours: Vary depending on the location.
- Cost: For those with commercial health insurance, the expected out-of-pocket expense will be your copay. For self-pay, the PCR test and medical evaluation costs $159, plus additional lab fees in North Carolina.
- Appointment needed: Yes.
- Results: Typically available within three to five days.
Carolina Pharmacy
- Multiple locations throughout Charlotte, North Carolina, as well as Lancaster and Rock Hill, South Carolina.
- Operating hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: Rapid antigen test costs $89, rapid RT-LAMP (Molecular/NAAT) costs $145, and RT-PCR (Molecular/NAAT) costs $190. For those with commercial insurance, out-of-pocket costs will be the copay. Self-pay customers in North Carolina can expect $159 for the medical evaluation and PCR test, plus additional lab fees.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Results: Available within one to three days.
StarMed Healthcare
- Multiple locations throughout Charlotte.
- Operating hours: Vary depending on the location.
- Cost: Fully covered for most insurance providers, or $199 for self-pay. An additional $195 fee applies for expedited lab processing.
- Appointment required: No.
- Results: Typically available within one to three days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Chicago
WellNow Urgent Care
- Multiple locations throughout Chicago.
- Hours: Open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Some locations offer extended hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Cost: Most insurance plans are accepted, or for self-pay, it’s $100 plus the cost of the initial visit and any other required services.
- Appointment needed: No.
- Results: Available within three to five days.
Howard Brown Health
- Multiple locations available across Chicago.
- Operating hours: Vary depending on the site.
- Cost: No charge.
- Appointment needed: No.
- Results: Available within three to seven days.
Innovative Care
- 1111 W. Diversey Parkway, Chicago, Illinois.
- Operating hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Cost: Covered by insurance or self-pay for $250, which includes both the examination and the COVID-19 test.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Results: Typically ready in two to four days.
Prime Care Physicians
- 1355 Remington Road, Suite Q, Schaumburg, Illinois.
- Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Cost: $125 for self-pay, most insurances accepted.
- Appointment required: No.
- Results: Ready in 24 to 48 hours.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in the Cleveland/Akron area, Ohio
WellNow Urgent Care
- Multiple locations across Cleveland.
- Operating hours: Available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with some sites offering extended hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Cost: Most insurance plans are accepted, or patients can self-pay $150 plus the base consultation and any additional services.
- Appointment needed: No.
- Results: Same-day or next-day availability. To receive same-day PCR results, check specific testing times.
The Centers, Midtown Office
- 4500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Cost: No out-of-pocket costs for most patients, and no insurance is required. Medicaid and other insurance plans are accepted.
- Appointment required: Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome.
- Turnaround time: Typically one to two days.
Where to find a COVID-19 testing site in Columbus, Ohio
WellNow Urgent Care
- Multiple locations across Columbus.
- Hours: Open every day, with varying hours depending on location.
- Cost: Most insurance plans are accepted, or you can pay $150 out-of-pocket, plus the base consultation fee and any additional services required.
- Appointment needed: No.
- Turnaround time: Results are available same day or by the next day. For same-day PCR results, check specific testing times.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Texas
Ayass BioScience Drive-thru
- 8501 Wade Blvd, Building 7, Frisco, Texas
- Hours: Available upon registration.
- Cost: Covered by insurance providers.
- Appointment: Recommended, but walk-ins are allowed with required on-site paperwork.
- Turnaround time: Same-day results if samples are collected before 2 p.m.
Real Time Laboratories
- 4100 Fairway Ct, Suite 600, Carrollton, Texas
- Hours: Open daily, check website for details.
- Cost: Ranges from $125 to $250, depending on how quickly you need the results.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Results in 6 to 48 hours, based on the test type.
DevLab Bio
- 4100 Fairway Drive, Suite 410, Carrollton, Texas
- Hours: Open Monday through Saturday; refer to website for specifics.
- Cost: Typically covered by insurance, except for travel-related tests.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Results typically available same-day or the following day.
L&H Scientific
- 2801 Osler Drive, Building B, Suite 123, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: $275 to $425, depending on how quickly results are needed.
- Appointment: Highly recommended. For same-day results, testing must be done before noon.
- Turnaround time: Results available the same day or within one day.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Denver, Colorado
American Family Care Urgent Care
- Various locations across Denver.
- Hours: Varies by location.
- Cost: Accepted by most major insurance providers.
- Appointment required: No.
- Turnaround time: Results typically available in three to five days.
Advanced Urgent Care
- Multiple locations throughout Denver.
- Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Cost: Most major insurances accepted; $125 for the PCR rapid test at the Broomfield location.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Rapid PCR tests available the same day; other tests typically take 3 to 7 days for results.
Premier Diagnostics
- Multiple locations across Denver.
- Hours: Check website for details.
- Cost: Insurance coverage varies; the RT-PCR test costs $125 if not covered by insurance.
- Appointment required: No.
- Turnaround time: Results typically available within 48 hours.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Detroit, Michigan
CVS Minute Clinic
- 1935 Campbell, Detroit, Michigan
- Hours: Pharmacy open until 8 p.m.
- Cost: No out-of-pocket expense with insurance coverage.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Typically two to three days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Houston, Texas
Curative
- Multiple locations across Houston.
- Hours: Refer to the website for details.
- Cost: No cost to you if billed to your insurance or government programs.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Results available within one to two days.
Any Test Now
- Multiple locations across Houston.
- Hours: Check the website for specific hours.
- Cost: $199 for testing services.
- Appointment required: Yes, appointments are necessary.
- Turnaround time: Typically two to three days for results.
Memorial Village ER
- 14520 Memorial Dr., Houston, Texas
- Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Cost: $150 or covered by insurance.
- Appointment required: Not necessary, walk-ins accepted.
- Turnaround time: Results ready in two to three days.
Rapid COVID Clinic
- Available at several locations across Houston.
- Hours: Vary depending on the site.
- Cost: $250 for testing services.
- Appointment required: Preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.
- Turnaround time: Results available in 36 to 48 hours.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Las Vegas, Nevada
Pharmatech
- 546 N Eastern Ave, Suite 130, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Hours: Visit the website for detailed hours.
- Cost: $120 for the test.
- Appointment required: Yes, appointments are necessary.
- Turnaround time: Results in one to two days.
Cuur Diagnostics
- 3450 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Cost: $125 for the test.
- Appointment required: No, walk-ins are welcome.
- Turnaround time: Results in one to two days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Los Angeles, California
COVID Clinic
- 124 locations across 15 states, with more opening weekly. Testing also available at 13 airports, including LAX, BUR, and ONT.
- Hours: Typically 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. Please check specific location hours.
- Cost: Free PCR tests with one to two-day results for both insured and uninsured (conditions apply). Rapid one-hour PCR tests are $299.
- Appointment required: Yes, with same-day appointments available.
- Turnaround time: One to two days for expedited PCR test results.
Reliant Urgent Care
- Multiple locations across Los Angeles.
- Hours: For detailed hours, please refer to the website.
- Appointment required: Yes, appointments are necessary.
- Cost: $195 for tests with a 24- to 36-hour turnaround, $175 for a one-hour rapid result (not covered by insurance).
- Turnaround time: Varies based on the service selected.
Curative
- Several locations throughout Los Angeles.
- Hours: For hours, visit the website for specific details.
- Cost: No out-of-pocket cost when billed to your health insurance or the government.
- Appointment required: Yes, appointments are needed.
- Turnaround time: Results are typically available within one to two days.
OnSite Safe
- 6411 Sepulveda Blvd., Van Nuys, California
- Hours: Open Monday to Saturday; check the website for detailed hours.
- Cost: The test costs $164.
- Appointment Required: Yes, appointments are mandatory.
- Turnaround time: Standard results available in two days; expedited processing for next-day results available for an additional fee.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Quality Health Care Concierge
- Drive-up testing location: 900 Broken Sound Parkway NW, Boca Raton, Florida
- Hours: Available 24/7, every day of the week.
- Cost: Partial insurance coverage available.
- Appointment required: Yes, necessary for both drive-up and in-home services.
- Turnaround time: Dependent on the service you choose.
Lab Doctor
- 1425-A SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Cost: $179 per test.
- Appointment required: No, walk-ins welcome.
- Turnaround time: Results available by the next day.
Air Land Sea
- Location: Sheltair FLL, 1100 Lee Wagener Blvd, Suite 346, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
- Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Cost: $75 for next-day results or $125 for same-day results with insurance. Without insurance, next-day results cost $175, and same-day is $225. Expedited four- to six-hour results are $450.
- Appointment required: No, though appointments can be made online at covidFLL.com.
- Turnaround time: Same-day, next-day, and four to six-hour results available. Same-day tests must be taken before 11 a.m.
Miami-Dade County testing sites
- Various locations across Miami-Dade County.
- Hours: Vary depending on the location.
- Cost: No charge for testing.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Results available in two to three days.
American Scientific Diagnostics
- Address: 1860 Old Okeechobee Rd, Suite 508, West Palm Beach, FL.
- Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Pricing: $150 for next-day results, $250 for same-day results.
- Appointments: Required.
- Test turnaround: Varies depending on the test selected.
LabDX
- Location: 1515 NW 167th St, Suite 410, Miami Gardens, FL 33169.
- Business hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Pricing: $129 for home or office visits, or $89 per test if you visit the lab. Use the discount code LABDX10PTSGUY for a $10 savings from TPG.
- Appointments: Required for concierge service, but walk-ins are welcome at the drive-up locations.
- Turnaround time: Results available within 24 to 36 hours.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota
CVS
- Address: 3655 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN.
- Hours: Available by appointment only.
- Pricing: No out-of-pocket expenses with insurance coverage.
- Appointments: Required.
- Results: Typically available in 2 to 3 days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in New York City and Newark, New Jersey
New York City offers hundreds of testing locations, including pop-up mobile testing sites across the five boroughs. However, not all locations provide quick enough results for travel purposes, and the estimated turnaround time may change over time.
Bloom Labs
- Location: 34 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018.
- Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., weekends 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Cost: $299 for an expedited RT-PCR test with a 3-4 hour turnaround. Standard RT-PCR tests with a 36-48 hour turnaround are covered by insurance.
- Appointments: Not necessary.
- Turnaround: As mentioned above.
Carecube
- Locations: Available in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.
- Hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: Insurance accepted, or prices range from $175 to $400.
- Appointments: Not required.
- Turnaround: Results available within 4 to 6 hours.
CityMD
- Locations: Multiple sites across New York City and its boroughs.
- Hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: No copay required for COVID-19 related visits.
- Appointments: Walk-ins accepted.
- Turnaround: Results in 5 to 7 days.
OnSite Safe
- Location: Chelsea, offering home or office visits for groups of 5 or more individuals.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday; specific times available on the website.
- Cost: $184.
- Appointments: Not required.
- Turnaround: Results in two days, with expedited next-day results available for an additional fee.
Zeel provides in-home COVID-19 PCR testing for individuals and groups in the New York metro area, including NYC, Westchester, Nassau, North Jersey, and Lower Fairfield County, Connecticut. The cost is $249 for the first person, plus $50 for each additional person. Results are delivered within 24 hours.
Newark residents can access several free COVID-19 testing sites, with no appointment or insurance needed. Additional details can be found here.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Orlando, Florida
COVID Testing LLC
- Testing available at multiple locations throughout Orlando.
- Hours: Vary by location.
- Cost: Insurance covers $35 for next-day results, $75 for same-day. Without insurance, $115 for next-day and $155 for same-day results.
- Appointments: Not required.
- Turnaround: Results available same day or next day. For same-day tests, the sample must be taken before noon.
Paramount Urgent Care
- Multiple locations throughout Orlando.
- Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Cost: No charge for self-pay and insured patients (excluding Medicaid).
- Appointments: Not necessary.
- Turnaround: Results ready in 3 to 4 days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Vybe Urgent Care
- Over 10 convenient locations across the Philadelphia region.
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: Free for PCR tests. Rapid antigen tests are $75 (self-pay) and rapid RT-PCR tests are $100 (self-pay).
- Appointments: Required for rapid testing, but not for other types of tests.
- Turnaround time: Results for rapid tests in under 24 hours, while non-rapid tests take two to five days.
American Family Care (AFC) Urgent Care
- 1444 W. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: PCR tests covered by insurance at no cost.
- Appointments: Required, including a telemedicine consultation.
- Turnaround time: 1 to 3 days.
RapiCare
- 620 East Welsh Road, Horsham, Pennsylvania.
- Hours: Open Monday through Saturday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: $165 for an RT-PCR test.
- Appointments: Required.
- Turnaround time: 24 hours for RT-PCR results.
Where to find COVID-19 testing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Curative
- Multiple locations around Pittsburgh.
- Hours: Visit the website for specific details.
- Cost: Covered by insurance or government, with no out-of-pocket expense.
- Appointment: Required.
- Turnaround: Results available in one to two days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Portland, Oregon
Zoom+Care
- Several locations across Portland.
- Hours: Vary by site.
- Cost: No out-of-pocket expenses with insurance; lab fee of $100 applies, plus virtual consultation fee.
- Appointment: Required.
- Turnaround: Results in three to five days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Sacramento, California
Sacramento County residents aged 18 and older can access free COVID-19 testing by completing an online screening, after which testing will be scheduled.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Salt Lake City, Utah
Intermountain Health
- Multiple locations across Salt Lake City.
- Hours: Check the website for specific hours by location.
- Cost: Pricing may differ based on the reason for testing (travel, symptoms, or exposure).
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: 90% of tests are processed within 48 hours.
Premier Diagnostics
- Various locations throughout Salt Lake City.
- Hours: See the website for more information.
- Cost: Covered by insurance or $125 for an RT-PCR test.
- Appointment required: No.
- Turnaround time: Results within 48 hours.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in San Antonio, Texas
iGenomeDx
- 4115 Medical Dr., Suite 210, San Antonio, Texas 78229
- Hours: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
- Cost: $125 for an RT-PCR test for asymptomatic patients and travelers. Insurance covers symptomatic patients and non-insured symptomatic patients with a provider's order.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: 24 to 48 hours, with same-day results available if samples are received by 11 a.m. CST.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Seattle/Tacoma, Washington
Discovery Health MD
- Locations: DoubleTree Suites Southcenter and Seattle Airport.
- Hours: Visit the website for specific times.
- Cost: $176 for next-day RT-PCR tests, $349 for a one-hour RT-PCR test.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Same or next day, depending on the test selected.
Seattle testing locations
- Multiple testing locations across Seattle.
- Hours: Check the specific location for details.
- Cost: No charge.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: 2 to 3 days.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in St. Louis, Missouri
ARCpoint Labs
- 11255 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, Missouri
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: $250 for same-day results.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Same-day results or 48 to 60 hours, based on the test selected.
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Washington, D.C./Baltimore/Arlington
Farragut Medical & Travel Care
- Located at 815 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, D.C.
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: $300.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Expedited results in two days, standard testing results in two to five days.
Preston's Pharmacy
- Available at various locations in Arlington and Fairfax.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, check the website for specific times.
- Cost: $45 for standard three- to five-day PCR testing. Expedited options available for an additional fee.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: Three to five days, or faster with expedited service.
McLean Pharmacy
- Located at 1392 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, Virginia.
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Cost: $200 for results within 48 hours, $250 for expedited 24-hour results.
- Appointment required: Yes.
- Turnaround time: As stated above.
Bottom line
While obtaining a COVID-19 PCR test for travel has generally become easier in certain areas, turnaround times can still fluctuate, especially as the Omicron variant spreads in the U.S. and testing demand increases.
If you're on a tight travel schedule and need a COVID-19 PCR test, the best option is to use a provider that guarantees same-day or next-day results. Some providers who previously offered results within 24 or 48 hours have extended their turnaround times, sometimes up to a week. However, these expedited PCR tests often come with a higher cost and limited availability.
Several testing providers have also mentioned that some insurance companies may not cover COVID-19 testing for travel purposes, so be prepared for potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Certain destinations may permit you to quarantine upon arrival until your test results are received. If you do test positive, regardless of whether you show symptoms or not, you should be ready to quarantine on-site for at least two weeks.
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