When should I get a test?

If you were exposed less than 5 days ago, then it is recommended to wait to test until 4-5 days after exposure. If you test too soon after exposure (1-2 days after), the test could give a false-negative result if the virus has not made enough copies of itself to be detectable. In the meantime, continue to monitor yourself for symptoms and quarantine if you are not up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations.

If you were exposed at least 5 days ago, then you can test for COVID-19. If you test too soon after exposure (1-2 days after), the test could give a false-negative result if the virus has not made enough copies of itself to be detectable. In the meantime, continue to monitor yourself for symptoms and quarantine if you are not up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations.

If you need to provide verified test results, it is best to get tested by a professional at any location where COVID-19 tests are offered. You can find a testing site near you using this HHS resource: https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/community-based-testing-sites/index.html. Whether you sign up for a rapid antigen test, a PCR test, or a different kind of test, the laboratory professionals will be able to provide you with official documentation. A photograph of a rapid antigen test taken by yourself without supervision likely will not be accepted if official results are required. However, some at-home test kits allow you to make a supervised telemedicine appointment so that a laboratory or medical professional can observe you performing the test, review your results, and provide you with official documentation.