The ongoing presence of COVID-19 necessitates readily available and accessible testing options. Fortunately, convenient at-home COVID-19 tests are authorized for over-the-counter (OTC) use, allowing you to check for an active infection from the comfort of your home. These tests are available online and in local stores, offering a user-friendly way to get tested without needing to visit a clinic or send samples to a lab. Understanding Where To Get Covid Tests, especially at-home options, is crucial for managing your health and preventing further spread.
Understanding At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests
At-home Over-The-Counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests are designed to detect active COVID-19 infections quickly and conveniently. These tests have been authorized by the FDA for self-testing at home, work, or anywhere you might need to test, without requiring a prescription. You can easily purchase these tests online or at various retail locations. The process is straightforward: you collect your own sample, perform the test according to the instructions, and interpret the results yourself, all without laboratory involvement.
Alt text: A woman carefully conducts a nasal swab for a COVID-19 home test, demonstrating self-testing.
It’s important to note that for most at-home OTC COVID-19 tests, performing repeat testing after a negative result is recommended, regardless of whether you are experiencing symptoms. This serial testing approach minimizes the chance of a false negative result. The FDA also encourages users to voluntarily report their test results, both positive and negative, to public health initiatives. You can contribute your data anonymously through platforms like MakeMyTestCount.org or via any reporting apps or digital tools that might be included with your test kit. For detailed guidance on interpreting your test results, refer to the resource Understanding At-Home OTC COVID-19 Antigen Diagnostic Test Results.
For more comprehensive information and answers to common queries about at-home COVID-19 diagnostic tests, the At-Home COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests: Frequently Asked Questions page is a valuable resource.
Finding Authorized At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests and Understanding Expiration Dates
The following table provides a regularly updated list of FDA-authorized at-home OTC COVID-19 diagnostic tests. This detailed resource includes vital information such as expiration dates, intended users, links to instructions, and other specifications to assist you in selecting the most suitable test for your needs. For deeper insights into each Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), you can consult In Vitro Diagnostics EUAs: Tables of IVD EUAs.
Within the table, the “Expiration Date” column specifies where to locate the expiration date on the test packaging, while the “Other Details” column provides the test’s shelf-life. Shelf-life refers to the duration a test is expected to perform as intended from its manufacturing date. The expiration date marks the end of the shelf-life, indicating the date up to which the test is expected to maintain its accuracy. It’s important to know that in certain instances, the expiration date of a test can be extended beyond the initially printed date.
An extended expiration date is granted when the manufacturer provides data demonstrating that the test’s shelf-life is longer than initially estimated at the time of authorization. For a more detailed explanation of how expiration dates are determined and why extensions are possible, please visit At-Home COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests: Frequently Asked Questions.
To check if your at-home OTC COVID-19 test’s expiration date has been extended, first locate your test in the table below by matching the manufacturer and test name on your box label. If an extension applies, the “Expiration Date” column will state “Extended Expiration Date” and link to a document listing lot numbers, original expiration dates, and extended expiration dates. If your lot number or original expiration date is not listed, or if the column indicates “Expiration Date: See box label,” adhere to the original expiration date printed on your test and do not use it beyond that date.
You can efficiently search the table by manufacturer, test name, or other criteria to quickly find the information you need, including any expiration date extensions.
For complete information on smaller screens, use the blue plus (+) button next to the test name to expand details.
| Manufacturer and Test Name (Links to Instructions for Use) | Expiration Date | Who can use this test: Symptoms | Who can use this test: Age | Other Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abbott Diagnostics Scarborough, Inc.:BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 15 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Requires supervision of a telehealth proctor and a smartphone or computer – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 22 months | |
| Abbott Diagnostics Scarborough, Inc.:BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 15 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 22 months | |
| Access Bio, Inc.:CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Home Test Alternate brand name: | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing) | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Smartphone optional – Alternate brand name: On/go COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test – Results in 10 minutes – Shelf Life: 21 months | |
| ACON Laboratories, Inc:Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test Alternate brand name: | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing) | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Smartphone optional – Alternate brand name: On/Go One COVID-19 Antigen Home Test – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months | |
| Aptitude Medical Systems Inc.:Metrix COVID-19 Test | – People with or without symptoms | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Molecular test – Nasal swab – Saliva – Requires a Metrix Reader (sold separately) – Smartphone optional – Results in 30 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 Months | |
| CorDx, Inc.CorDx TyFast Flu A/B & COVID-19 At Home Multiplex Rapid Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 10 minutes – Shelf Life: 19 months | |
| CTK Biotech, Inc.: ImmuView COVID-19 Antigen Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 20 months | |
| Ellume Limited:Ellume COVID-19 Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 4 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 16 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Mid-turbinate nasal swab – Requires a Smartphone – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 12 months |
| Genabio Diagnostics Inc.:Genabio COVID-19 Rapid Self-Test Kit | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing) | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months |
| iHealth Labs, Inc.:iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test Alternate brand name: | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 15 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Smartphone optional – Results in 15 minutes – Alternate brand name: GoodToKnow COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test – Alternate brand name: GoToKnow COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test – Shelf Life: 15 months | |
| InBios International Inc:SCoV-2 Ag Detect Rapid Self-Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 20 minutes – Shelf Life: 13 months | |
| Immunostics Inc.: Swab-N-Go Home Test COVID-19 Ag | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 20 months |
| Pfizer Inc:Lucira CHECK-IT COVID-19 Test Kit | – People with or without symptoms | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Molecular test – Nasal swab – Smartphone optional – Results in 30 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months | |
| Maxim Biomedical, Inc.:MaximBio ClearDetect COVID-19 Antigen Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months | |
| Mologic, Inc.:COVI-Go SARS-CoV-2 Ag Self-Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 20 minutes – Shelf Life: 6 months |
| OraSure Technologies, Inc.:InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 18 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Smartphone optional – Results in 30 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months | |
| OSANG LLC:OHC COVID-19 Antigen Self Test Alternate brand name: | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing) | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Alternate brand name: QuickFinder COVID-19 Antigen Self Test – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months | |
| OSANG LLC:QuickFinder COVID-19/Flu Antigen Self Test | – See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 4 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months |
| PHASE Scientific International, Ltd.:INDICAID COVID-19 Rapid Antigen At-Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 20 minutes – Shelf Life: 15 months | |
| Quidel Corporation:QuickVue At-Home OTC COVID-19 Test Alternative Brand Names: | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Alternative Brand Names: CVS Health At Home COVID-19 Test Kit and Walgreens At-Home COVID-19 Test Ket – Results in 10 minutes – Shelf Life: 16 months | |
| Watmind USA: Speedy Swab Rapid COVID-19 + Flu A&B Antigen Self-Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months |
| SD Biosensor, Inc.:Pilot COVID-19 At-Home Test 1 FDA Safety Communication – Recall of Certain Lots | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 20 minutes – Telehealth Proctor Supervised (optional) – Shelf Life: 16 months | |
| Siemens Healthineers:CLINITEST Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Smartphone/Web access (optional) – Shelf Life: 24 months | |
| Watmind USA:Speedy Swab Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing) – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 21 months | |
| Xiamen Boson Biotech Co., Ltd.:Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test Card | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months | |
| SEKISUI Diagnostics, LLC.:OSOM COVID-19 Antigen Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 11 months |
| Beijing Hotgen Biotech Co., Ltd.:Hotgen COVID-19 Antigen Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 10 months | |
| CorDX, Inc.:CorDx COVID-19 Ag Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 10-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 15 months |
| Azure Biotech Inc.:Fastep COVID-19 Antigen Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months |
| Oceanit Foundry LLC:ASSURE-100 Rapid COVID-19 | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 20-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 12 months |
| Advin Biotech Inc.:Advin COVID-19 Antigen Test @Home | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months | |
| GenBody Inc.:GenBody COVID-19 Ag Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-20 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months |
| Azure Biotech, Inc.:Azure FaStep® COVID-19 Antigen Pen Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 21 months |
| Pfizer Inc.:Lucira by Pfizer COVID-19 & Flu Home Test | – People with symptoms | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Molecular test – Nasal swab – Results in 30 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months | |
| Princeton BioMeditech Corp:Status COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test for Home Use | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 24 months |
| Nano-Ditech Corporation:Nano-Check COVID-19 Antigen At-Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 6 months |
| BioTeke USA, LLC:Bio-Self COVID-19 Antigen Home Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms that began within the last 7 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). – People without symptoms. The test is to be performed three times over five days (serial testing) | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 12 months |
| 3EO Health, Inc.:3EO Health COVID-19 Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms. | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Molecular test – Nasal swab – Results in 30 minutes – Shelf Life: 4 months |
| SEKISUI Diagnostics, LLC:OSOM Flu SARS-CoV-2 Combo Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 4 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 10-30 minutes – Shelf Life: 12 months | |
| Wondfo USA Co., Ltd.WELLlife COVID-19 / Influenza A&B Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 5 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 10 minutes – Shelf Life: 10 months | |
| iHealth Labs, Inc.:iHealth COVID-19/Flu A&B Rapid Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 4 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 17 months | |
| ACON Laboratories, Inc.:Flowflex Plus COVID-19 and Flu A/B Home Test | – People with symptoms that began within the last 6 days. The test is to be performed two times over three days (serial testing). | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Antigen test – Nasal swab – Results in 15 minutes – Shelf Life: 18 months | |
| Aptitude Medical Systems Inc.: Metrix COVID/Flu Test | – Expiration Date: See box label | – People with symptoms | – Age 14 years and older – Age 2 years and older when collected by an adult | – Molecular test – Nasal swab – Results in 20 minutes – Shelf Life: 12 months |
Where to Get COVID Tests: Exploring Your Options
Now that you understand the availability and types of at-home COVID tests, let’s explore where you can actually get them. Access to COVID tests has become increasingly convenient, with multiple avenues available to suit different needs and preferences.
1. Government Programs for Free COVID Tests
For accessible and free COVID testing, government programs have been instrumental. The U.S. government, for example, has offered programs allowing households to order free at-home COVID-19 tests through www.COVIDTests.gov. These initiatives ensure that testing is available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay, and are a significant resource for quickly obtaining tests. It’s advisable to check the COVIDTests.gov website for the latest updates on test availability and ordering eligibility, as programs may be periodically renewed or updated based on public health needs.
2. Pharmacies and Local Stores
Over-the-counter COVID-19 tests are widely available at pharmacies and local retail stores. Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, as well as general retailers, typically stock a variety of FDA-authorized at-home COVID-19 tests. This widespread availability means you can often find tests during your regular shopping trips, offering immediate access when you need them. Checking the websites of your local pharmacies or stores can often provide information on current stock levels and brands available.
Alt text: Pharmacy shelves stocked with diverse brands of home COVID-19 test kits, showcasing retail availability.
3. Online Retailers
Online retailers provide another convenient option for purchasing COVID-19 tests. Platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and other online marketplaces offer a wide selection of at-home COVID-19 tests that can be delivered directly to your doorstep. Shopping online allows you to compare different brands, read reviews, and often find competitive pricing. When buying online, always ensure you are purchasing from reputable sellers to guarantee the authenticity and FDA authorization of the tests.
4. Healthcare Providers and Community Health Centers
Your healthcare provider’s office or local community health centers can also be a source for COVID-19 tests. Many healthcare providers offer in-office testing, and some may also distribute at-home test kits to their patients. Community health centers often play a vital role in providing accessible healthcare services, including COVID-19 testing, particularly in underserved communities. Contacting your healthcare provider or local health center can provide information on their testing options and availability.
Conclusion
Knowing where to get COVID tests is essential for proactive health management in the current environment. From free government programs to readily available retail options, accessing COVID-19 tests has become increasingly convenient. At-home OTC COVID-19 tests offer a user-friendly and rapid way to check for infection, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and help curb the spread of the virus. Stay informed about the available resources and utilize these testing options to protect yourself and your community. For the most up-to-date information on authorized tests and where to find them, always refer to trusted sources like the FDA website and www.COVIDTests.gov.
Related Information:
- 1The Pilot COVID-19 At-Home Test, distributed by Roche Diagnostics, is previously known as the COVID-19 At-Home Test. As the manufacturer, SD Biosensor, transitions to this new brand, customers may receive a product with the previously authorized COVID-19 At-Home Test labeling.
