fit for travel test near me

The New Travel Essential

Before catching your flight, there's one last thing to check off the list. Test and travel confidently with Labcorp’s trusted COVID-19 PCR tests.

Preferred Pre-Travel Test

Fast results, tests for your family.

Testing Before You Travel

Pixel by Labcorp customers get their COVID-19 PCR test results quickly, allowing them to travel safely.

Request a test kit online or purchase at a store

Request a test kit online or purchase at a store near you.

Most kits purchased online arrive within 2 days.

Collect your sample at home

Collect your sample at home using a short, painless nasal swab.

Ship back same-day for faster turnaround time.

Ship your sample back to our lab

Most kits arrive within 2 days.

Access your results online

On average, results are received in 1-2 days from when samples arrive at the lab.

Where to Purchase Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Kits

Available at over 6,000 Walgreens stores nationwide. Kits are located in the pharmacy. Check in-store availability at  walgreens.com .

Available at select CVS stores in Alabama, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Kits are located in the pharmacy. Check in-store available at  CVS.com .

On-demand Delivery

Available to be delivered by DoorDash® and Instacart® through Walgreens. Check availability at  walgreens.com .

Know the Travel Guidelines for Your Destination Before You Go

*Rules for COVID-19 testing and quarantining can vary greatly among U.S. states. Some destinations may not accept test results from self-collected samples; please check with your destination to confirm. Visit the CDC’s  Travel Planner  to be routed to the relevant health department in order to understand what’s required before traveling to that destination. Labcorp OnDemand services are only available in the US. If you are traveling internationally, you’re unable to ship kits from international locations.

The CDC has different travel guidelines for vaccinated and unvaccinated people—and recommends delaying travel until you’re fully vaccinated. Click  here  for the latest information on domestic travel and  here  for the latest on international travel. The agency’s website notes that even fully vaccinated people are at risk of getting and spreading new COVID-19 variants when traveling.

Labcorp is a leader in the fight against COVID-19

At Labcorp, we’re on a mission to improve health and improve lives. Our network of CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified laboratories has performed over 38 million COVID-19 molecular (PCR) tests, and their effectiveness has been proven for the U.K., South African and Brazilian variants. With the first FDA authorized at-home kit, we are continuing to be a global leader in the fight against COVID-19. Learn how Labcorp is developing new ways to help fight the crisis.

Can I purchase a kit for travel?

The Labcorp OnDemand® COVID-19 PCR Test Home Collection Kit is a RT-PCR test that is designed to determine active infection of SARS-CoV-2. Many destinations require negative PCR results within a specific timeframe. We recommend that you reach out to your destination’s government for their specific requirements and timelines before making your purchase. Some destinations may not accept test results from self-collected samples.

How many kits can I purchase at once?

You can purchase up to 5 kits at one time by adjusting the quantity in your cart. Each kit is shipped individually and should be returned in the packaging included in each kit.

Can kids take the Labcorp OnDemand COVID-19 test?

The test is authorized for ages 2 and older.  All people aged 18 years or older can collect their own sample.  Children between the ages for 14-17 can collect their own sample under adult supervision. Children 2-13 can use this test when samples are collected by an adult.  

Can I ship a kit internationally?

Labcorp OnDemand® services are only available in the US.  Unfortunately, we're unable to ship kits internationally.  

How long does it take to get COVID-19 test results back?

Currently the average time to deliver results is 1-2 days from when your sample is received at the lab.  Our labs process samples seven days a week.  

• Shop All Tests
• Annual Wellness
• Fertility & Sexual Health
• Nutrition & Vitamin Health
• General Health
• Immunity & Infectious Disease
• For Businesses
• Register Kit
• View Results
• User Agreement
• Terms & Conditions
• HIPAA & Privacy
• PWNHealth Agreements
• Refund Policy

Find Covid-19 Testing Locations near you for Travel

Getting tested for Covid-19 while traveling helps keep you and others safe. Find Covid-19 testing locations around the globe, with results within 72 hours (or less).

How Test For Travel Works

Chances are the country you’re about to visit will request a negative Covid-19 test before letting you enter. Here you can find reliable Covid-19 testing locations near you in three easy steps.

Search entry requirements

Research what types of tests are accepted by your target country, and how long they take. Need extra help? Check out our Global Travel Requirements .

Find Testing Locations

Visit our directory and search for your city and the type of test you need. Every listing contains the facility’s contact information.

Book an Appointment

Reach out to your facility of choice. Confirm whether they’re available to test, and book your appointment.

Recently Added Listings

Our directory is constantly updated with Covid-19 testing locations – and fact-checked by us.

New Diagnostics

Featured on.

Frequently asked questions

If you need to find a Covid-19 testing location near you, you’re in the right place.

Help! I’m traveling and I need to get tested for Covid-19. What should I do?

• Scroll to the top of this page, and fill in that short form below “Find Testing Locations Near You”. Select where you’d like to get tested and what type of test you need.
• Press Search to find testing locations near you. Every listing includes the testing location’s contact information, as well as reviews from travelers like you.
• Get in touch with the nearest and best Covid-19 testing location.

I can’t find any testing locations near me, what do I do?

We do our utmost best to find testing locations around the globe. But we may not have listings in your area yet. In that case, we recommend you:

• Use Google’s local search capabilities.
• Contact your airline. They may be able to connect you to a local lab.
• Get in touch with local health authorities.
• Explore at-home testing options. We recommend these FDA-approved testing kits .

Testing is extremely important, and we want to honor our mission. If you take these four steps and are unable to find the testing services you need, contact us. We’ll be more than happy to help you find a location.

How can I add a testing location?

Adding a test location as a company is easy. Click the My Account button on our main menu to get started.

Can I submit a testing location if I’m not affiliated with it?

Of course! We actually encourage you to contact us and let us know about any location that isn’t in our directory. If a representative eventually wants to take control of their listing, they can sign up and claim it.

Who runs Test for Travel?

Test for Travel is run by a diverse group of people, passionate about travel. We’re honored to work with advisors, freelancers, and individual collaborators from all around the globe. Visit our About Us page to can learn more about who we are and what moves us.

Supported countries

Covid-19 travel blog.

Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.

COVID Testing in San Antonio

Home to the iconic Alamo and featuring the picturesque River Walk, San Antonio showcases a unique mix of Spanish and Texan influences. Moreover, it’s a hub for military and healthcare institutions, contributing to its dynamic economy. With a warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, the city captivates visitors and residents with its blend of history, culture, […]

Best Foods for COVID Recovery

It’s common to fall ill in the winter months, and one of the various respiratory illnesses you might catch is COVID-19. Although this disease isn’t as dangerous as it used to be and its symptoms have changed over time, catching it can still be a nuisance. Nutrition can play an important role in strengthening your […]

COVID Testing in Spanish: What to Know and Who to Ask

Being sick while abroad can be stressful, especially when there is a language barrier. In case of COVID-19 symptoms, you’ll need to get tested and probably self-quarantine. However, finding information about where to go and what to do can be an uphill battle in a foreign language. Spanish is the fourth most spoken language in […]

Two states, four Walgreens and a sense of defeat: Travelers struggle to find timely COVID tests, putting trips in jeopardy

Nikki Schreader almost missed a trip to Hawaii last month for a family wedding.

She wasn't running late for her flight. She was scrambling to find a coronavirus test for her 8-year-old daughter, a requirement to enter Hawaii unless you're vaccinated.

Schreader studied the state's strict testing rules , which set out the type of test, approved providers and the timetable (no more than three days before the flight.) She stopped by the closest Walgreens, in Rochester, Minnesota, days before her daughter was required to test to ask about availability. Employees told her they were completely sold out of the diagnostic tests she needed and directed her to Austin, Minnesota, which is 40 minutes away.

►Traveling to Honolulu?  Get ready to show COVID-19 vaccine or negative test at restaurants, bars

►Self-test kits?: Here's what travelers should know about at-home COVID-19 tests

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Schreader snagged an appointment in Austin but it was canceled the night before. She found a last-minute opening the next day in Northfield, Minnesota, and grabbed it, even though it was nearly an hour away. When she arrived, the location was out of the rapid test she needed. Another eligible test was available, but she was told results would take three to five days. 

"I feel so defeated,'' she said when she struck out. 

Schreader was ready to cancel the trip until she found an opening the next day for an approved rapid test at a Walgreens in River Falls, Wisconsin, 90 minutes away. Her daughter took a rapid test and the results were delivered before they were home. They flew to Hawaii the next day.

Schreader's shuffle across state lines may be an extreme case, but her hunt for a timely, affordable coronavirus test for travel is far from unique. Travel message boards are filled with questions on how to find tests or warnings about a lack of appointments, canceled appointments and slow turnaround times for results.

Some frustrated travelers are turning to elected officials. The office of Rep. Brian Higgins, D-N.Y. – who raised questions about testing capacity in early August as Canada reopened to vaccinated Americans  – fielded recent calls from travelers unable to find affordable local tests that return results within Canada's 72-hour time frame, spokesperson Theresa Kennedy said. Niagara Falls in Ontario, Canada, is a short drive from the district, which includes Buffalo.

Blame the delta variant , return to school and a host of other factors, which have combined to create a major testing crunch across the country. 

The upshot for travelers headed to Hawaii, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, on cruises and other destinations requiring tests for all or some: Planning is essential, backup options are a must. Note that those backup plans, including airport rapid testing, are often pricey, especially for those who are used to free tests at Walgreens or government facilities.

'I did not anticipate it being an issue': Five hours and $250 later, a coronavirus test to reenter Canada

Charlotte Mosher lives in Canada and flew to the United States in August to help a friend move from Denver to Florida.

She didn't have a problem getting a coronavirus test in Canada to board her flight to Denver. The problems arose when she tried to find a test for her return flight from Tampa.

Mosher, who is fully vaccinated, tried to book an appointment online with Walgreens, which is free, but came up empty in the three-day time period she needed.

"There were no tests anywhere within driving distance,'' she said. "They were all booked.''

She looked into at-home testing kits, but they would not guarantee the results in time for her flight. 

Her sister found one testing place in Tampa, but it couldn't guarantee results in time either, and she needed to get back to work.

Story continues below.

Story continues above.

"When I called them they said it wouldn't even go out to the lab until the next day,'' she said, with two days or more processing time after that.

She ended up getting a test through ARCpoint Labs on the recommendation of a friend.

The cost: 325 Canadian dollars, or about $257.  That's half the price of her round-trip airline ticket.

Her advice to others: Don't book a trip until you search for general testing availability using hypothetical dates.

"I guess I should have done that,'' Mosher said. "I did not anticipate it being an issue.''

More trouble getting to Canada: Late test results, turned away at the border. 

The testing troubles aren't limited to those traveling by air.

Paula McGibbon lives in West Seneca, New York, near Buffalo, and tries to visit her parents in Niagara Falls, Canada, every week. She is vaccinated and has dual citizenship.

Before the border reopened, test results from Walgreens   were delivered in about a day and a half. In the past few weeks, that has ballooned to five days, she said.

McGibbon took a test at the pharmacy this week so she could take the five-minute drive across the border to see her parents in their retirement home. She became worried when she received an email warning of prolonged wait times for results. The warning was dead-on: McGibbon didn't receive her results for five days, past Canada's 72-hour timetable. Her results were technically expired.

She decided to take her chances at the border since her PCR test was taken at the right time to comply with the rules, but she was turned away. An official told her to try the Buffalo airport for a rapid test. The cost: $150 to $200, she said.

"Overall we are able to meet demand, with a capacity to perform up to 3 million test per month, across our more than 6,000 testing locations throughout the country," Phil Caruso of Walgreens told USA TODAY. "We may experience intermittent delays in supply in some locations and are working with all of our testing partners to meet patient demand."

McGibbon opted for urgent care, figuring she'd have to pay only a $25 co-pay, but the bill was $150. She said her insurance company told her coronavirus "screening'' tests weren't covered like those performed for people with symptoms or COVID-19 exposure.

She called the Erie County health department and Higgins' office seeking tips on free testing options. She's worried that the price of tests will put her weekly visits with her parents, who are in their 90s, out of reach.

►Don't fake your vaccine card: Woman arrested for using fake 'Maderna' vaccine card during Hawaii trip

►Can Americans visit Europe this fall after EU decision?: It's complicated. What travelers need to know.

Kennedy, from Higgins' office, said the biggest issue for travelers trying to cross the border as testing sites are overwhelmed is the turnaround time. 

"Providers that offer tests at low or no cost to the consumer are not able to guarantee that the results will return in time,'' the spokesperson said.

Those who must have rapid tests with quick results find themselves paying $125 to $200 per person for a test, Kennedy added.

The cost is leading some to cancel trips, she said. One constituent from western New York, who owns property in Canada and visits regularly with his wife and son, called Wednesday to say they have had to cancel trips because of the high cost of rapid testing.

"I don’t know when I’ll see them again,'' McGibbon said of her parents. "I just have to keep going and trying to get COVID tests.''

Finding a test for travel during delta variant surge: 7 tips

• Have a plan B ... and C and D.   Check all testing options within a reasonable radius as well as testing options at the airport and other for-profit sites. Schedule appointments as far in advance as allowed and be sure to ask when results will be ready. Keep checking back for cancellations.
• Call your health insurance company to see what types of travel tests, if any, are covered and to what extent.  This is invaluable information to have on hand should your favored, free testing site be unavailable or slow to provide results. CVS spokesperson Matt Blanchette said people seeking testing for travel purposes should check with their insurer to determine if it covers such screening. Otherwise, the cost at CVS is $139 per test given laboratory costs, he said. Walgreens offers free testing regardless of insurance. Blanchette said the chain continues "to be able to meet the demand for COVID-19 testing, even with increasing numbers of patients seeking out tests at one of our more than 4,800 CVS Pharmacy locations across the country offering testing with same-day and future day appointments in most geographies.''
• Make sure you don't get the wrong test in the rush to find any test. Hawaii in particular is strict and won't accept just any coronavirus test from any health care provider, even if it's from the vaunted Mayo Clinic.  The state accepts just one CVS test, for example.
• At-home tests are also an option, but make sure it is the right at-home test. Many destinations won't accept those that aren't supervised by a health care professional. 
• Boost your travel testing budget if the trip can't be missed or canceled.  The airport sites are convenient but costly.
• Ask fellow travelers or scan Facebook message groups for testing strategies. One woman on the Maui COVID Travel Testing group on Facebook said she has been practicing logging into the Walgreen's site at the time new appointments are added each night so she's in practice when her trip to Hawaii comes.
• Know Hawaii COVID travel restrictions.   Learn how to navigate the state's entry requirements .

Our wellness advice is expert-vetted . Our top picks are based on our editors’ independent research, analysis, and hands-on testing. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Where to get a COVID-19 test for travel

Going on a trip? Don't forget your COVID-19 test.

As more and more people get their vaccinations , the desire to travel grows stronger , fueled largely by the declining cases of COVID-19. The world is starting to feel a little bit safer. 

If you're preparing to cure your cabin fever, don't forget that you need proof of a negative COVID-19 test to travel to many destinations -- and to get back into the US, if you plan on traveling abroad . 

Though COVID-19 tests aren't in short supply anymore, some places still won't test you if you don't have symptoms or known exposure. That said, there are plenty of locations you can get tested for COVID-19 before traveling, as detailed below.

Community testing centers

Chances are, there's a park or parking lot near you reserved for drive-through COVID-19 testing. Some community testing sites are managed by state or local governments, others are managed through private companies and others may be a partnership between the two.

Color , for example, is a medical testing company that has several community testing sites across California.

To find community testing sites near you, check your local department of health website. If you can't find a testing site that way, a quick Google search of "COVID-19 testing near me" or "COVID-19 testing in [city]" should do the trick. 

You may have to pay for a test at a community testing center, because tests are generally reserved for people who have symptoms (and recreational travel is still not encouraged). However, some testing sites may offer free tests even if you don't have symptoms. 

A drive-through test might be the most convenient option.

Urgent care

Most urgent care centers offer both PCR and rapid antigen COVID-19 tests. You can check the website of local urgent care centers or call to find out if testing is available. Most cities have multiple urgent care centers, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding a test this way. Again, whether or not you pay depends on each urgent care center's particular policy. 

Doctor's offices and clinics

Your primary care provider may be willing to test you for COVID-19 if you don't have symptoms, although your insurance may not cover the test or the cost of the office visit for this purpose. It can't hurt to ask. 

Passport Health , a travel medicine and immunization agency with clinics across the US, offers COVID-19 testing specifically for travel. The agency has locations in 33 states .

Your primary care provider may offer you a COVID-19 test for travel.

Most large pharmacy chains offer COVID-19 testing for travel, but you'll probably have to pay out of pocket. Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid all have COVID-19 tests available for travel. The exact cost you incur may vary, but out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 tests generally hover between $100 and $150.

Kroger and Walmart pharmacies also offer COVID-19 testing in some states, and the same rule applies: The test is free if you have symptoms, but you have to pay for travel, recreation or simply peace of mind. 

If you go to a local pharmacy (not a chain), give the location a call to see if they offer COVID-19 testing for travel. There's a good chance they will have tests available, but it might cost more to get one from an independent business versus a large corporation. 

Medical labs

Cut out the middleman and head straight for a medical laboratory for your COVID-19 test. Quest Diagnostics, the lab where many tests go for processing anyway, offers drive-through COVID-19 testing . The lab requires you to pay for the test if you aren't showing symptoms. 

Curative is a new medical lab that was founded in January 2020 to develop a new type of sepsis test. The company quickly pivoted to making COVID-19 tests that March, and it now offers COVID-19 testing at more than 10,000 locations throughout the US. Curative processes all of its tests at its labs in San Dimas, California; Pflugerville, Texas; and Washington, DC.

Some travel destinations offer COVID-19 tests for guests. Call your destination to see if they offer return testing -- that is, the test you need to get back into the US. Keep in mind you still need to arrange your own test to get to your destination.  

Many airports offer travel COVID-19 tests for passengers. Whether or not it'll cost you depends on a number of factors, including what entity, exactly, is providing the test; whether or not they bill health insurance; and whether people showing symptoms are prioritized. 

To find out if the airport you're flying out of offers COVID-19 testing, search the airport's official website. You may also have some luck checking the website of your preferred airline. Delta has a handy tool where you can find a list of airport testing locations based on the country you're traveling from. United has information specific to certain cities and countries. 

Just keep in mind that some airports might not offer rapid tests, which means you shouldn't wait until the day of your flight to get your test. Not only could you miss your flight due to a long line, but if you can't get rapid results, you may not be able to board at all.

You may be able to find a COVID-19 test at the airport, but don't bank on getting your results immediately before your flight.

If you have some time to spare, consider buying an at-home COVID-19 collection kit instead of venturing out for a test. 

There are more than 10 at-home COVID-19 tests available for people without symptoms or known exposure, including those from Everlywell, LetsGetChecked and Picture from Fulgent Genetics. 

You can even order one on Amazon or call your local drugstore to see if they're stocking the new over-the-counter COVID-19 test from Ellume . 

From the time you order one of these tests, it'll take five to seven days to get your results, so this option is best for people who plan ahead. 

At home with a health care professional

Ready , a new urgent care telehealth platform backed by GV, Google's investment arm, offers in-home rapid COVID-19 testing. Book your appointment online and a qualified health professional will show up at your door to administer the test. You can also mail-order a test and take it while a health care worker supervises via a video call.  

BeeperMD offers a similar service, but only in Florida at this time. 

At-home kits are a good option for people who have time to spare before their trip.

When to get your COVID-19 test for travel 

Time -- or more accurately, timing -- is of the essence when it comes to getting a COVID-19 test for travel. The exact guidelines you need to follow will vary based on where you're going, where you're coming from and whether or not you're visiting multiple locations. 

In general, it's a good idea to take your COVID-19 test so that you receive results within three days of travel. This means you can take a rapid antigen test 24 to 72 hours before traveling or you can take a PCR test four to six days before travel. PCR tests usually take 24 to 72 hours to process.

Other Wellness Guides

• Best Places to Buy Glasses Online
• Best Places to Buy Contacts Online
• Best Prescription Sunglasses
• Best Place to Buy Replacement Prescription Lenses
• Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses
• Best Electric Toothbrush
• Best Invisible Braces
• Best Sunscreen
• Best Mattress
• Best Mattress for Back Pain
• Best Adjustable Mattress
• Purple Mattress
• Saatva Mattress
• Best Headphones for Sleeping
• Best Pillow
• Best Sheets
• Best Elliptical
• Best Treadmill
• Best Rowing Machine
• Best Peloton Alternative
• Best Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best Weightlifting Shoes
• Best Massage Gun
• Theragun Review
• Best Meal Kit Delivery Service
• Best Healthy Meal Delivery Service
• Best Cheap Meal Delivery Service
• Best Plant-Based Meal Delivery Service
• Best Keto Meal Delivery
• Best DNA Test
• Ancestry vs 23 and Me
• Best Continuous Glucose Monitors
• Best Blood Pressure Monitor
• Best Prescription Delivery Services
• Best Portable Humidifiers
• Best Mental Health Apps
• Best Teas for Stress and Anxiety
• Best Fidget Toys for Anxiety
• Best Online Therapy
• Amazon Promo Codes
• Air Up Coupons

How to Get a COVID Test for International Travel

A negative covid test continues to be a requirement to travel the world—including for entry into the united states. here’s how to get the right test when you need it..

• Copy Link copied

COVID tests are the must-have travel item of the pandemic.

Photo by Shutterstock

The need for COVID testing doesn’t appear to be going away anytime soon. Even as more people get vaccinated worldwide against COVID-19, variants such as Delta and Omicron have put numerous countries on high alert. Once again, there are new—and in some cases, stricter—COVID testing requirements for travel.

As of December 6, the United States began requiring that all international arrivals get tested for COVID no more than one calendar day before flying to the United States , regardless of vaccination status. That’s down from three days prior, making it even more of a last-minute challenge to get tested before flying to the U.S.

France and the United Kingdom also reintroduced COVID testing requirements in December for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. The sudden developments served as a reminder of how quickly travelers sometimes have to scramble to find tests that satisfy new rules—for many, it’s overnight. How do you stay on top of so many changes? How do you know what you need? Look here for starters.

Whether travelers are in search of a COVID test before heading abroad or need to re-enter the U.S., here are the (numerous) options and ways to get a COVID test for international travel.

What kind of COVID test is required to enter the U.S.?

According to the official order issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID tests that satisfy the U.S. entry requirement include a PCR test, antigen test (including a rapid antigen test), or an approved home or self test , which means that there are some easier options than a PCR test, the results for which can take longer to obtain—though, there are services that offer “rapid PCR” tests, usually for an added cost.

CDC-approved COVID self tests for international travel

The BinaxNOW Antigen home kit is sold as a six-pack for $150, which comes out to $25 for each kit.

Courtesy of Abbott

For travelers who are worried about obtaining a PCR or antigen test within a day of flying back to the U.S., there is the option of bringing a set of COVID-19 home or self tests with them. The CDC has approved a handful of self tests for international travel. They include the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Home Test , the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test with Azova , and Cue COVID-19 tests —all of which we have reviewed .

The tests can be self-administered—meaning you do your own nasal swab—but to meet the CDC requirements, they must be paired with a supervised telehealth video call in real time. (The above tests include the telehealth call service.) Travelers, take note: You must have a reliable internet connection wherever you plan to administer the test, so logging into the telehealth video call isn’t an issue.

Related We Reviewed the CDC-Approved COVID Home Tests for International Travel—Here’s What to Know

How to find a testing site abroad

Want to find out if the country you’re planning to visit has COVID testing sites that can turn around results within a day? A great place to start is the U.S. State Department’s detailed COVID-19 travel information and country-specific advisories , which include an entire section on COVID-19 testing for each country. Right up front, the section answers the question of whether PCR and/or antigen tests are available to U.S. citizens and whether test results are reliably available within one calendar day. It also often includes information about where and how to obtain such tests.

Another good resource is TestforTravel.com , where you can search any international destination for testing centers and filter by the specific type of COVID-19 test you’re looking for.

The good news is that testing has ramped up worldwide, and it has become more widely available at international airports and hotels. Travel companies—including airlines, cruise lines, and tour operators—and travel advisors are also stepping in to help international travelers either actually get tested or find testing sites in their destination. The bad news is that pricing varies wildly. Tests can run anywhere from several dollars to several hundred dollars, which can make travel budgeting a bit of a nightmare.

American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have all developed resources to provide passengers with international testing information. American is doing so with the VeriFly app , a global health pass that allows users to more easily upload their health data.

Through its United app, United has added a feature called the “ Travel-Ready Center ” (located in the “My Trips” section of the app or online at United.com ). Once passengers access the Travel-Ready Center, they can identify COVID-19 travel requirements for upcoming trips, find local testing options, and upload proof of test results (as well as vaccination status).

Delta, too, has developed an easy COVID-19 testing search function on its website through which travelers can find testing center locations in numerous global destinations.

How to find a COVID test in the U.S. to travel internationally

First and foremost, you need to make sure you’re up to date on the latest entry requirements for the country or countries you plan to visit, or even just enter—there’s never been a better time to fly nonstop. As we have seen throughout the pandemic, these rules can change very quickly at times.

Again, the U.S. State Department’s country-specific COVID-19 advisories are a great place to start to find up-to-date entry rules and requirements. We have also rounded up our favorite interactive map tools that provide updated global COVID-19 travel information.

Once you know what’s required, whether you need a PCR or antigen test, for example, and within what time frame (between two and three days, or 48 to 72 hours, is the most common requirement), you can begin to track down testing options near you.

Mail-in COVID self tests

COVID testing throughout the U.S. is patchy at best in terms of availability and reliability, and it varies enormously from city to city, county to county, and state to state. Earlier this month, President Biden announced that at-home COVID tests will become more available and will be covered by private insurance plans. Additional details will be available in January, but there are a few home or self tests that travelers can stock up on with mail-in options that may qualify for health insurance reimbursement and that satisfy certain international government requirements for entry. (Of course, if the COVID test entry requirement is a very tight time frame—say, two or three days prior to travel—these mail-in options might not work.)

Note that these tests can be used for travel from the U.S. to international destinations that will accept the results , not the other way around. The tests that work for inbound travel to the U.S. from abroad were mentioned above and were reviewed by AFAR editors.

Here are some of the options we have found for self tests that could work for travel:

• EverlyWell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC ($109 per test, or discounted for $81.75 with code GIVEMORE): This FDA-authorized PCR test is delivered within two to eight business days of order, so it should be ordered at least a couple of weeks before travel. Once you receive it, take the self-administered test and mail it the same day using the included overnight delivery label. Upon receiving the sample, the lab will provide results within 24 to 48 hours.
• Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test At-Home Collection Kit ($119 per test): An FDA-authorized PCR test that is typically delivered within two days of order. The self test includes a FedEx overnight label that travelers use to send the sample back to the lab, where results are processed within one to two days.
• LetsGetChecked COVID-19 Pre-Flight Test & Lab Report ($109 per test): A home testing kit that travelers can order in advance. The company advises at least five days prior to travel (but why not stock up even earlier than that?). After collecting the sample yourself using a nasal swab, you then send it to the lab with a prepaid next-day delivery label, and results can be expected within 24 to 72 hours after arriving in the lab. This is also an FDA-authorized PCR test.

In-person COVID testing options in the U.S.

Large pharmacy chains such as CVS and Walgreens , healthcare networks, and county and state health agencies are among the numerous entities that offer COVID testing but not always with the guarantee of receiving results within a specific two- or three-day window. Travelers may need to rely on pricier local private providers and urgent care centers (such as CityMD and Medical Offices of Manhattan in New York and COVIDCheckToday in Southern California, Denver, Las Vegas, and Miami) to get a test for travel quickly. DMCOVID-19 Test is a nationwide testing service that does house calls and offers same- and next-day results—for a hefty fee; same-day services will run you around $300 and next-day around $220.

Getting tested at the airport

Another option (or backup option if waiting until just before departure is a little too nerve wracking for you) is to get tested at the airport.

XpresSpa Group’s XpresCheck brand now has COVID-19 testing locations at 11 U.S. airports, including Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Dulles, Houston, Newark, New York (JFK), Phoenix, Seattle, and San Francisco. Services include a standard PCR test with results within 48 to 96 hours (for $75) and a rapid PCR test with results within 60 minutes (for a much heftier $250). Beyond XpresCheck, countless U.S. airports have their own testing facilities as well now, so travelers can look into options at their local hub.

U.S. airports that have COVID testing facilities include:

• Los Angeles International Airport
• Oakland International Airport
• San Diego International Airport
• Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport
• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
• Miami International Airport
• Tampa International Airport
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Honolulu, Hawai‘i)
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport
• Chicago Midway International Airport
• Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport
• New York’s LaGuardia Airport
• Portland International Airport
• Philadelphia International Airport
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

What happens if you test positive?

“If you were to test positive for COVID-19 while overseas, you would need to postpone your trip back to the United States, potentially for several weeks. All travelers should have a plan B,” the U.S. State Department’s Acting Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Ian Brownlee, said during a January 26 media briefing when the testing requirement for international travelers entering the U.S. was first introduced.

Brownlee noted that U.S. travelers should consider where they would stay, the cost of an extended stay, and the repercussions they would face if they could not immediately return, whether for work, for childcare issues, or other responsibilities.

“Think through the answers to these important questions carefully” prior to committing to travel plans, Brownlee said. Another recommendation he has for international travelers: Consider travel insurance that covers COVID-19 medical treatments and COVID-19 related travel disruptions.

And the same goes for outbound travel—travelers need to consider what kind of safeguards they have in place, including the cancellation policies for all components of their trip, in the event that they or anyone in their travel group tests positive before flying out.

>> Next: The Best Travel Plan This Holiday Season: A Backup Plan

Our Operations will be closed for the holidays on 25th December 2023 and 1st January 2024 •

 Call us toll free

• +1-800-790-4550

Where to Get a COVID-19 Test for Travel: A Comprehensive Guide

• Avinash Singh Rao
• April 3, 2023

Share This Post

As travel restrictions begin to ease, many countries are requiring proof of a negative COVID-19 test before allowing visitors to enter. If you are planning a trip, it is important to know where to get tested and what to expect. This guide provides a list of testing locations and tips to help make your travel experience as stress-free as possible. 

Understand the Testing Requirements for Your Destination.  

Before you schedule a COVID-19 test for travel, it is important to understand the testing requirements for your destination. Some countries require a specific type of test, such as a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, while others may accept rapid antigen tests. Additionally, some destinations may require the test to be taken within a certain time before arrival. Make sure to research the requirements for your destination and schedule your test accordingly to avoid any issues with entry. 

Check with Your Healthcare Provider or Local Health Department.  

Your healthcare provider or local health department may offer COVID-19 testing for travel. Contact them to inquire about availability and scheduling. Keep in mind that some healthcare providers may require a referral or have specific criteria for testing. It is important to ask about any fees associated with testing, as some providers may not accept insurance for travel-related testing. Additionally, make sure to ask about the turnaround time for test results, as some destinations may require a negative test result within a certain time before arrival. 

Look for Testing Sites Near You.  

One of the easiest ways to get a COVID-19 test for travel is to look for testing sites near you. Many pharmacies, urgent care centres, and clinics offer COVID-19 testing, including PCR and rapid antigen tests. You can use online resources like the COVID-19 Testing Locator on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website to find testing sites near you. Be sure to check the testing requirements for your destination before scheduling your appointment, as some destinations may only accept certain types of tests. 

Consider At-Home Testing Options.  

If you are unable to find a testing site near you or prefer the convenience of testing from home, consider at-home testing options. Many companies now offer at-home COVID-19 testing kits that can be shipped directly to your home. These kits typically include detailed instructions for collecting a sample and returning it to a lab for testing. Be sure to check the turnaround time for results and whether the test meets the requirements for your destination before ordering. 

Plan and Allow Plenty of Time for Testing and Results.  

When planning your travel during the pandemic , it is important to factor in the time needed for COVID-19 testing and receiving your results. Many destinations require a negative test result within a certain time before arrival, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your destination. Additionally, some testing locations may have longer wait times for appointments or results, so it is best to schedule your test as early as possible to avoid any last-minute stress. Planning and allowing plenty of time for testing and results can help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. 

My Care Labs is a healthcare company that provides travel testing services. They offer several types of COVID-19 tests, including PCR tests, rapid antigen tests, and antibody tests. These tests are designed to help travellers meet the testing requirements for their destination countries and return to their home countries. 

To use My Care Labs’ travel testing services, you can book an appointment online or over the phone. You will need to provide information about your travel itinerary, including your departure date and destination country. Based on this information, My Care Labs will recommend a testing plan that meets the requirements of your destination country. 

On the day of your appointment, you will visit one of My Care Labs’ testing locations to provide a sample for testing. The type of sample required will depend on the test you are taking. For example, a PCR test requires a nasal swab, while a rapid antigen test may require a throat swab. And they offer same day test results if you are planning to book an appointment before 3:00PM and if you booked a slot after 3:00PM than within 24 hours your test results will be published on their patient exchange portal. 

Once your sample has been collected, it will be sent to a laboratory for testing. Depending on the test type, you may receive your results within a few hours or a few days. My Care Labs will provide you with an official test report that you can present to airlines or border officials as proof of your negative COVID-19 status. 

It is important to note that travel testing requirements can vary by country and may change frequently. It is always best to check with your destination country’s embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on testing requirements before booking a test with My Care Labs or any other testing provider. 

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Get updates and learn from the best, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

More To Explore

Exploring Wellness: Concepts, Health, & Wellness Tests

The purpose of this guide is to provide you with valuable insights into the significance of wellness tests in preventive healthcare. By understanding the role

Workplace Drug Testing: Policies & Random Testing in Workplace

Drug testing in the workplace has become increasingly important in today’s society due to the prevalence of substance abuse issues. Employers recognize the need to

• Testing Locations
• At home test kit
• Testing solution overview
• Toxicology Testing Solution
• Travel PCR Testing
• Wellness testing solutions

My Care Labs is a certified BBB accredited business member.

My Care Labs offers quick, hassle-free, and accurate COVID-19 RT-PCR testing. With same day results or within 24 hours, we have testing on-site at our laboratory and at pop-ups throughout California. My Care Labs takes your health seriously. We are a CLIA-certified laboratory, part of the California Covid Task Force, partner with CDPH, and report directly to CDC.

Subscribe to our newsletter

• Call: +1-800-790-4550
• Fax: +1-888-289-9940
• 5500 Stewart Avenue, Suite 108, Fremont, CA 94538
• Testing Solutions
• Book An Appointment
• All Locations
• NorCal: Bay Area mobile testing
• NorCal: Fremont Lab
• NorCal: Union City Pop-up
• SoCal: Corona Mobile Testing
• SoCal: Riverside Pop-up
• SoCal: Riverside Mobile Testing
• At-Home COVID-19 PCR Test Kit
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• HIPAA Information

Copyright © 2024 My Care Labs. All Rights Reserved.

How well do you know Social Security? Take this quiz to test your knowledge.

Popular Searches

AARP daily Crossword Puzzle

Hotels with AARP discounts

Life Insurance

AARP Dental Insurance Plans

Suggested Links

AARP MEMBERSHIP — $12 FOR YOUR FIRST YEAR WHEN YOU SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC RENEWAL

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.

• right_container

Work & Jobs

Social Security

AARP en Español

• Membership & Benefits
• AARP Rewards
• AARP Rewards %{points}%

Conditions & Treatments

Drugs & Supplements

Health Care & Coverage

Health Benefits

Staying Fit

Your Personalized Guide to Fitness

AARP Hearing Center

Ways To Improve Your Hearing

Brain Health Resources

Tools and Explainers on Brain Health

A Retreat For Those Struggling

Scams & Fraud

Personal Finance

Money Benefits

View and Report Scams in Your Area

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation Assistance

AARP Money Map

Get Your Finances Back on Track

How to Protect What You Collect

Small Business

Age Discrimination

Flexible Work

Freelance Jobs You Can Do From Home

AARP Skills Builder

Online Courses to Boost Your Career

31 Great Ways to Boost Your Career

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Tips to Enhance Your Job Search

Get More out of Your Benefits

When to Start Taking Social Security

10 Top Social Security FAQs

Social Security Benefits Calculator

Medicare Made Easy

Original vs. Medicare Advantage

Enrollment Guide

Step-by-Step Tool for First-Timers

Prescription Drugs

9 Biggest Changes Under New Rx Law

Medicare FAQs

Quick Answers to Your Top Questions

Care at Home

Financial & Legal

Life Balance

LONG-TERM CARE

​Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance​

State Guides

Assistance and Services in Your Area

Prepare to Care Guides

How to Develop a Caregiving Plan

End of Life

How to Cope With Grief, Loss

Recently Played

Word & Trivia

Atari® & Retro

Members Only

Staying Sharp

Mobile Apps

More About Games

Right Again! Trivia

Right Again! Trivia – Sports

Atari® Video Games

Throwback Thursday Crossword

Travel Tips

Vacation Ideas

Destinations

Travel Benefits

Beach vacation ideas

Vacations for Sun and Fun

Plan Ahead for Tourist Taxes

AARP City Guide

Discover Seattle

25 Ways to Save on Your Vacation

Entertainment & Style

Family & Relationships

Personal Tech

Home & Living

Celebrities

Beauty & Style

TV for Grownups

Best Reality TV Shows for Grownups

Robert De Niro Reflects on His Life

Looking Back

50 World Changers Turning 50

Sex & Dating

Spice Up Your Love Life

Navigate All Kinds of Connections

Life & Home

Couple Creates Their Forever Home

Store Medical Records on Your Phone?

Maximize the Life of Your Phone Battery

Virtual Community Center

Join Free Tech Help Events

Create a Hygge Haven

Soups to Comfort Your Soul

Your Ultimate Guide to Mulching

Driver Safety

Maintenance & Safety

Trends & Technology

AARP Smart Guide

How to Keep Your Car Running

We Need To Talk

Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills

AARP Smart Driver Course

Building Resilience in Difficult Times

Tips for Finding Your Calm

Weight Loss After 50 Challenge

Cautionary Tales of Today's Biggest Scams

7 Top Podcasts for Armchair Travelers

Jean Chatzky: ‘Closing the Savings Gap’

Quick Digest of Today's Top News

AARP Top Tips for Navigating Life

Get Moving With Our Workout Series

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Go to Series Main Page

What to Know About COVID-19 Testing for Travel

They can offer peace of mind, but most aren't accepted for return to the u.s..

With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  requirement that all travelers coming to the United States provide official proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of their flight, travelers are understandably nervous — and a bit confused — about the whole process.

AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

Here are some answers to common questions about COVID-19 testing for travel.

What is the hotel testing process like?  Many hotels have the return COVID-19 testing process set up seamlessly. For example, on my recent trip to Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, the Dreams Bahía Mita Surf & Spa Resort gave me COVID-19 testing forms upon check-in, with a testing appointment scheduled the day before my checkout ($35 per test, free for Club Level guests). At my appointment time, masked guests were waiting with their passports in a hallway outside a conference room converted into a testing center. Inside, a nurse from a contracted health provider administered Abbott’s rapid antigen test with a nose swab. I waited semi-nervously to receive the text message about 15 minutes later, which indicated that my test was negative. (If the test comes back positive, the resort offers free quarantine lodging for up to 14 days.) The hotel provided an official form certifying the results (I took a photo of the page for backup). At the Puerto Vallarta airport, I provided my test results form when I checked in and was good to return home.

What are the U.S. testing rules for international travel?

For reentry to the U.S., the CDC requires all air passengers age 2 years and older (including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated passengers) to provide either documentation of a negative test taken within one day of their flight or documentation of recent recovery from  COVID-19 , along with a letter from a health professional certifying that the person is cleared to travel. The test must be an authorized viral antigen or nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).

Note that non-U.S. citizens need to show proof of vaccination prior to their flights to the U.S.  

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

How and where can you get tested before your return to the U.S.?

Many international hotels are now offering approved and sometimes free COVID-19 tests for their guests that are almost becoming a standard part of the checkout process (see details of one example in sidebar). Local clinics and some airports offer CDC- and airline-approved tests as well, although costs, availability and timing vary widely — from free to sometimes well over $100 for a test.

AARP® Dental Insurance Plan administered by Delta Dental Insurance Company

Dental insurance plans for members and their families

The CDC has started distributing free tests at three international airports around the U.S. (at Minneapolis-St. Paul, Miami and Chicago O'Hare), and has announced plans to expand the giveaways to other airports soon.

Many U.S. embassies, including in Britain, provide lists of approved local testing providers. Airlines also provide information about testing requirements and airport testing options.

Aside from finding an approved test to take (using local guidance from your airline, hotel and/or embassy), the most important step is to manage the timing of your test. If you plan to take a test at the airport, be sure to allow plenty of time for both the test and receiving the results, as wait times can be unpredictable — some travelers are facing long lines during the holiday travel season — and note that the test station may be far from your departure gate.

Can you test yourself?

While rapid off-the-shelf “at-home” (self-administered) antigen tests can provide an initial screening and peace of mind for travelers, they won’t meet the CDC requirements for reentry. ( See our story for more on home testing .)

For a home test to meet CDC reentry requirements, it must be a SARS-CoV-2 viral test (nucleic acid amplification test or antigen test) authorized by the FDA or the government of the country where you are. The test must also have an approved telehealth component that provides real-time supervision — so you’ll need a good Wi-Fi connection to consult with a medical professional from the test manufacturer who will confirm your identity, watch you administer the test and confirm the results.

And the test must be able to produce approved documentation to share with airline and customs officials. The CDC-approved travel reentry tests available online include Abbott’s BinaxNOW Ag Card Home Test ($70 for a two-pack), which will give you results within 15 minutes. The Qured Video Supervised Rapid Test ($45) is similar, with two tests included: The first is done under video supervision; the second, taken without supervision 24-36 hours later, is meant to confirm the result.

For frequent travelers, Cue Health has introduced its own testing device with a membership service. It's $474 for a device plus three tests, or a monthly service beginning at $50. To return to the U.S. after international travel, you'd need the Cue+ Complete membership, which is $90 per month.

What if you just want peace of mind that you don't have COVID-19 before traveling to visit family and friends within the U.S.?

In that case, you can use over-the-counter tests from drugstores. But there have been severe shortages for these quick-and-easy tests, which offer results in less than 15 minutes, as  omicron’s spread has led to a surge in demand .

While many countries have over-the-counter tests available for purchase once you get there, it might be a good idea to bring a few test kits with you (if you can find any). They can provide peace of mind if you are exhibiting symptoms, and save you time searching pharmacies for test kits (or a potentially expensive trip to a clinic at your destination). Again, these over-the-counter tests will not be enough to gain approval for return to the U.S., unless they have the certified telehealth component included.

What happens if you fail your return COVID-19 test?

Regulations for travelers receiving a positive test vary widely by country. Even if you're asymptomatic, you will typically be required to quarantine — either at a government-mandated location or one of your choosing — for at least a week, with a negative test required to exit quarantine. A few countries take care of the cost of quarantine food and lodging, many others do not, and costs can quickly accumulate.

This is the time when you should consider purchasing travel insurance — and choose COVID-19-specific options on your policy. Read the fine print carefully. Given the recent rapid spread of the omicron variant, it certainly would be wise to look into relevant travel insurance options for any international trip. 

A few more tips

· Stay on top of CDC guidance.  Before traveling, be sure to confirm the latest requirements on the  CDC website , and with your airline. You don’t want to be denied access to your return flight with an unapproved test or missing paperwork.

· Check your destination’s testing requirements.  Other countries’ testing and vaccination rules vary widely, but many require visitors to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days (some within 24 hours) of travel with approved PCR or antigen tests.  

Editor's note: This article was originally published on December 21, 2021. It's been updated to reflect new information.

Bill Fink is an award-winning travel writer covering global adventures for BBC , Lonely Planet , Thrillist and many other outlets. Follow him @finktravels.

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Already a Member? Login

More on travel

The Latest TSA Security Procedures During the COVID-19 Pandemic

You’ll need a mask, and patience, when passing through airport screenings this winter

Current Airline Policies During COVID-19 Pandemic

Penalties Grow for Unruly Airline Passengers

Travelers and law enforcement contend with more bad behavior in the skies

Or Call: 1-800-675-4318

Enter a valid from location

Enter a valid to location

Enter a valid departing date

Enter a valid returning date

Age of children:

Child under 2 must either sit in laps or in seats:

+ Add Another Flight

Enter a valid destination location

Enter a valid checking in date

Enter a valid checking out date

Occupants of Room

Occupants of Room 1:

Occupants of Room 2:

Occupants of Room 3:

Occupants of Room 4:

Occupants of Room 5:

Occupants of Room 6:

Occupants of Room 7:

Occupants of Room 8:

Enter a valid date

You didn't specify child's age

There are children in room 1 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age for room 1

There are children in room 2 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 2

There are children in room 3 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 3

There are children in room 4 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 4

There are children in room 5 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 5

You have more than 6 people total

Please select a trip duration less than 28 days

There must be at least 1 traveler (age 12+) for each infant in a lap

Enter a valid From location

Enter a valid start date

Enter a valid drop location

Enter a valid drop off date

Select a valid to location

Select a month

Enter a valid going to location

Enter a valid from date

Enter a valid to date

AARP VALUE &

MEMBER BENEFITS

Denny's

15% off dine-in and pickup orders

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Vacation Packages

$50 gift card of your choice when booking any flight package

$20 off a Walmart+ annual membership

AARP® Staying Sharp®

Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

Please note: Due to increased travel demand, appointments are limited.

Schedule your test as soon as possible to ensure availability.

Fit-To-Fly Medical Certificates

Many Passport Health locations are offering Fit-To-Fly medical certificates , including select clinics in the following states:

Arkansas , Arizona , California , Colorado , Connecticut , Delaware , Florida , Georgia , Iowa , Illinois , Indiana , Kansas , Kentucky , Louisiana , Massachusetts , Maryland , Michigan , Minnesota , North Carolina , New Jersey , New Mexico , Nevada , New York , Ohio , Oklahoma , Pennsylvania , South Carolina , Tennessee , Texas , Utah , Virginia , Washington , Washington D.C.

Fit-to-Fly medical certificates and Fit-To-Travel health forms are required by many airlines and countries in their efforts to keep others from getting infected as operations and economies slowly reopen. These documents provide travelers with proof they received a negative COVID-19 test that was reviewed by a medical professional prior to travel. In most cases, travelers are required to take the COVID-19 test within 72 to 96 hours of departure, depending on the airline or destination.

Call a local Passport Health location today or continue reading to learn more.

What Is a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?

COVID-19 Fit-To-Fly medical certificates certify that the holder of the travel health form has tested negative recently for COVID-19.

Fit-to-Fly medical certification generally requires travelers to show proof of negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test results up to 72 hours before departure. This can vary by destination.

Some countries do require a minimal physical as well which can include listening to the lungs or similar non-invasive procedure.

Check with your airline or your destination’s governing health or entry agency for specific requirements.

Who Needs a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?

Fit-to-Fly certificates are required for entry to some U.S. states and foreign countries. Check with your airline before departure to see if a valid certificate will be required to board your plane.

Not all airlines are requiring proof for travel, but your destination may require proof on arrival. Check our domestic and international COVID-19 travel restrictions pages for more information. The State Department also has a variety of resources for travelers.

How Can I Get a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?

Fit-to-Fly certificates require a negative COVID-19 test and possibly other minor requirements like a healthcare professional listening to your lungs. Various Passport Health facilities throughout the country are offering this service. Be sure to check with your local Passport Health to see if testing is available in your area.

Does a Fit-To-Fly Certificate Require a COVID-19 Test?

Yes, most Fit-to-Fly certificates require a COVID-19 test . Some may only require an antibody test while others require a full PCR test used to diagnose an active infection. Be sure to check the requirements of your destination before receiving testing. As PCR testing can take additional time to process, be sure to reach out to your local Passport Health about availability to fit your destination’s time requirements.

Which Test Do Countries Require for a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?

It can depend. But the most common test required is a RT-PCR test that identifies three different genes in the disease. The RT-PCR is widely viewed as the most comprehensive, currently available test today. To learn more about COVID-19 testing, please visit our COVID-19 testing page .

How Much Does a Fit-to-Fly Certificate Cost?

Fit-to-Fly certificate costs can vary based on the type of test needed and if any additional services, like vital checks, are required. Contact your local Passport Health to learn more about pricing in your area.

Where Can I Get a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?

Fit-to-Fly certificates are available from many Passport Health locations across the United States. Contact your local Passport Health to see if Fit-to-Fly certification and COVID-19 testing are available near you.

On This Page: What Is a Fit-to-Fly Certificate? Who Needs a Fit-to-Fly Certificate? How Can I Get a Fit-to-Fly Certificate? Does a Fit-To-Fly Certificate Require a COVID-19 Test? Which Test Do Countries Require for a Fit-to-Fly Certificate? How Much Does a Fit-to-Fly Certificate Cost? Where Can I Get a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?

• Records Requests
• Passport Health App
• Privacy Center
• Online Store

• For Patients: Schedule an Appointment
• Request Medical Records
• Nationwide Locations
• On-Site Exams

INSTANT OSHA ONLINE MEDICAL EVALUATIONS. BUY NOW!

ONE-STOP RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING

Medical evaluations. Check. Fit test. Check. Documentation and compliant record-keeping. Check.

Is your respirator fit test program in need of a facelift? Whatever your respirator fit testing needs are, we can accommodate them. We offer custom programming, better service access, and industry-leading technology to improve how you are operating today.

6,500 LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE

More locations means more convenience for your candidates and employees, making hiring and compliance easier.

FIND A CLINIC:

Revolutionize respiratory compliance with our portal.

Mobile Health’s Respirator Fit Testing Portal serves as a one-stop shop for all things respiratory compliance and as a central repository for all documents to streamline your compliance process. How?​

• Central storage of fit test results, clearance certificates, and medical evaluations, accessible 24/7 365.​
• Comprehensive view of your program’s progress, detailing who’s been tested, who’s been cleared, and their results.​
• Ability to take medical evaluations anytime, anywhere, from any device, with Mobile Health Physician review.

Mobile Health’s Respirator Fit Testing Portal puts the power of compliance at your fingertips – giving you everything you need to know about your program, storing all documents and results. Recordkeeping has never been so easy.​ OSHA audit? Our Portal will make sure you’re ready and fully compliant.

WHY RESPIRATOR FIT TEST WITH MOBILE HEALTH

No other respirator fit testing provider can navigate compliance with the expertise, technology, and experience that we offer.

CLINICAL EXCELLENCE

The clinical excellence that began with our founding in 1984 is the same clinical excellence you will see in every step of the fit testing process. We put our decades of respiratory protection knowledge and experience to work in crafting a perfect fit testing approach for you and your team.

ROBUST TECHNOLOGY

Our Respirator Fit Testing Portal amplifies your respiratory protection. Online medical evaluations, appointment scheduling, respirator fit testing records ─ everything is complete and stored all in one place, making compliance easier. Plus, you get free training and dedicated support from our team.

PROVEN EXPERIENCE

We’ve performed respirator fit testing across the country for multi-site construction companies, large hospital networks, Fortune 500 manufacturing companies, and more. We even performed 39,000 fit tests for one single partner . Imagine the efficiency we can bring to your organization!

RESPIRATOR FIT TEST METHODS

There are two types of respirator fit testing. Which test your employees need to do will depend on your industry and the airborne hazards they could be exposed to. Specific industries and jobs may also require pulmonary function testing. If you’re not sure which one they need, we can help you figure that out.

QUALITATIVE FIT TESTING (QLFT)

Usable on half-face masks, but not full-face masks, qualitative respirator fit testing determines whether the mask’s seal is adequate based on someone’s ability to NOT taste a test agent.

QUANTITATIVE FIT TESTING (QNFT)

The only testing option for full-face masks, quantitative respirator fit testing determines how good the mask’s seal is by measuring the amount of leakage into the mask. It can also  be used on half-face masks.

PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTING (PFT)

Pulmonary Function Testing determines how well an employee’s lungs work. Pulmonary Function Testing is required for medical surveillance per OSHA for any employee exposed to asbestos, beryllium, benzene, cadmium, coke oven emissions, cotton dust, formaldehyde, and silica. Additionally, OSHA recommends pulmonary function testing for anyone exposed to other lung hazards, with a physically demanding job, or wearing a respirator for work.

Before fit testing can take place, the person must complete a medical evaluation to determine their ability to wear a mask. Mobile Health offers online medical evaluations because of their benefits over paper medical evaluations in the fit testing process.

FIT TESTING ACCESSIBILITY & FLEXIBILITY

We make respirator fit testing more accessible for you and your employees by delivering our fit test service in three ways. This gives your organization more flexibility to meet and maintain OSHA compliance.

ON-SITE RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING

We can turn any breakroom into a clinic and any job site into a fit testing center. By coming to you, you achieve instant compliance while minimizing work disruption.

IN-CLINIC RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING

With access to our network of 6,500 nationwide clinics, your employees get the convenience of fit testing at a nearby location.

A do-it-yourself respirator fit test kit, Fit Kit™ includes everything you need to successfully manage fit testing on your own: the supplies, live training, plus access to the Respirator Fit Testing Portal.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING

Our Commonsense Approach to Respirator Fit Testing (PDF)

Respirator Protection Plan: A Breakdown for Employers

An Employer’s Guide to the OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard

How Online Medical Evaluations Make Respirator Fit Testing Easier and Faster

Navigating Respirator Fit Testing in Manufacturing and Construction

Respirator fit Testing Faqs

Respirator fit testing is a medical evaluation that measures whether a respirator properly fits an individual’s face and provides adequate protection against airborne hazards. Respirator fit testing may only occur after the employee completes and passes an OSHA medical evaluation.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) mandates respirator Fit testing at the federal and state levels for most localities. Employees working in a position regulated by  OSHA Respirator Standard CFR 1910.134  must have a respirator fit test done at least once a year. The test always takes place before working with a new respirator or after changes in the employee’s facial characteristics. Annual or more frequent tests ensure continuous protection against respirator wear and tear and facial changes.

Respirator fit testing is important for ensuring that employees are protected from airborne hazards in the workplace. A properly fitting respirator significantly reduces the risk of respiratory illness or injury due to exposure to hazardous airborne particles.

Respirator fit testing is required for employees who are required to wear respirators as part of their job duties. This includes employees who work in industries such as construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and mining, among others.

OSHA requires each respirator wearer to complete a medical evaluation. A Physician or Licensed Healthcare Professional (PLHCP) reviews the completed evaluation to make sure the wearer meets all requirements necessary to wear the respirator. Should a concern arise from the evaluation, the PLHCP will discuss results and recommend appropriate action, depending on medical necessity.

As always, a pregnant woman should consult her physician before any type of exam or activity.  However, all clinical research confirms the complete safety of  respirator fit testing and that it would not cause any pregnancy complications.

There are two types of respirator fit testing: qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative testing uses the employee’s sense of taste to determine whether a respirator properly fits, while quantitative testing uses specialized equipment to measure the amount of air leaking into the respirator.

Respirator fit testing should be performed annually for employees who wear respirators as part of their job duties. Testing should also be performed whenever an employee changes their respirator model or size, gains or loses more than 20 pounds, or undergoes any facial/cosmetic changes that could affect the fit of the respirator.

Respirators commonly used in the workplace include N95 filtering facepiece respirators, half-facepiece respirators, and full-facepiece respirators.

Respirator fit testing can help ensure that employees are properly protected against hazardous airborne substances, reduce the risk of exposure-related illnesses and injuries, and improve workplace safety.

Respiratory hazards that a fit-tested mask is intended to protect against include, but are not limited to:

• Dust and Fibers : Solid particles formed from the mechanical process. Examples: lead, asbestos
• Fumes : Solid particles that vaporize and condense in cool air. Examples: welding fumes
• Mists : Liquid droplets suspended in the air from spraying operations. Examples: paint spray mist
• Gases : Individual molecules in the air at room temperature. Examples: carbon monoxide
• Vapors : Gaseous substances, normally liquid or solid at room temperature. Examples: solvents
• Biological Hazards : Living organisms that can cause infections. Examples: viruses, animal waste
• Airborne Pathogens:  Diseases that can spread through the air.  Examples: Measles, tuberculosis

Respirator fit testing typically takes around 15 minutes per employee.

Respirator fit test results can be highly accurate when conducted properly by trained evaluators using advanced technology.

Different flavored solutions, some sweet and some bitter, are used in qualitative fit testing because some candidates have high sensitivity to flavors or lackluster taste.

If the tester introduces the saccharine solution first during the respirator fit test, and you cannot taste the saccharin, then the tester will introduce the bitter solution.  If the candidate cannot taste the bitter solution, the tester should do an additional consult to see if they can introduce another irritant.  Alternatively, they might conduct a quantitative fit test to achieve a true outcome.

NOTE : Lack of taste could be a symptom of COVID-19. Consult a physician prior to testing.

No. The respirator they’ve been tested on has passed “inspection.” Not all masks are created equal and not all are appropriate for their facial configuration. OSHA requires that they be fit-tested on EVERY model of mask assigned for work.

Under OSHA regulations, respirator fit tests (RFTs) should be completed annually. That means an employee should be refitted for a respirator every year — or immediately if they require a different respirator. Further, individuals who gain or lose weight, such as during pregnancy, or experience other facial changes, require refitting. Any of these changes can affect proper respirator fit.

Ideally, employees should cycle among several respirators. Handle respirators by their elastic bands only. After removal, the  CDC  recommends storing each respirator in a paper bag labeled with the date and wearer’s name. That’s because viral matter doesn’t survive as long in a paper environment as it does in other environments. So, each employee should use a respirator for several days, store it in a paper bag, then re-use a previously stored respirator.

Yes. Upon successful completion of the respirator fit test, all passing candidates will receive a clearance card or certificate specifying the respirator make and model for which they have been cleared.  This complies with OSHA regulations to provide a copy of results to the candidate to maintain on their person for proof.

Yes, Mobile Health offers customized respirator fit testing solutions and online OSHA medical evaluations that are tailored to each employer’s needs.

The smallest Fit Kit™ includes supplies for 100 respirator fit tests, 25 online medical evaluations, two hoods, two nebulizers, and comprehensive live training for staff.

Reach out to your Mobile Health Account Manager or contact us to get in touch with a Mobile Health representative.

Our Services

On-Site Fit Testing

On-site qualitative & quantitative respirator fit testing ─ we handle everything.

In-Clinic Fit Testing

6,500 clinics to fit test your employees tomorrow.

We send you our innovative, all-in-one kit for in-house fit testing.

Quantitative Fit Testing

We can fit test your employees full or half-face respirators in our clinics on on-site anytime, anywhere.

Qualitative Fit Testing

We can fit test your employees N95s in our 6,500 clinics, or we can bring our clinic to you!

Online Medical Evaluations

OSHA-compliant evaluations to clear your workers for respirator fit testing.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, EMPLOYEE SCREENING, AND COMPLIANCE

Mobile Health is a trusted employee screening and occupational health provider with 39 years of clinical excellence. Our 6,500 nationwide clinics and on-site teams offer every medical exam employers need for hiring and compliance. Mobile Health enables businesses to consolidate to one provider for OSHA/DOH compliance and for building a safer, healthier workforce. Our expert teams design programs to reduce employer bottlenecks, increase throughput, and make occupational health easier than ever before.

212.695.5122

Quick Links

Subscribe to our newsletter.

" * " indicates required fields

Your guide to at-home COVID-19 tests for international travel

Editor's Note

Since December 2021, the U.S. has required all incoming air travelers over the age of 2 to submit a negative COVID-19 test taken one day prior to scheduled departure .

This looming requirement has discouraged some Americans from traveling abroad , for fear that they will test positive and be unable to return. If you do decide to travel internationally, the most convenient way to ensure you receive results within the 24-hour period ahead of travel is to take an at-home COVID-19 test administered remotely.

There are several major at-home tests accepted for use by inbound passengers, including Abbott's BinaxNow COVID-19 Home Test, Ellume's COVID-19 Home Test and Qured's video-supervised rapid antigen test; there are some other acceptable tests for which travelers must purchase add-on virtual service.

You can take a test anywhere in the world, as long as you can access the internet to have your test proctored. We'll break down all you need to know about using each type of test.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Abbott BinaxNow COVID-19 home test

Since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention first approved the use of at-home COVID-19 tests for entry into the U.S. one year ago, many travelers have used the BinaxNow test for international travel.

These tests are available for purchase through two sellers, including eMed, which sells a pack of six testing kits for $150 plus $21 for standard FedEx overnight shipping . Next-day business delivery is available for orders processed by 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

You can also purchase the same test through Optum, which charges $70 for two tests or $100 for three tests . Optum also sells a single test for $50, but it's currently out of stock online.

When ordering through Optum, you have the option to pay $5.99 for standard shipping within four to seven business days, or you can pay $9.99 for expedited shipping within two to four business days.

Both options include the testing kit itself as well as a supervised visit with an eMed certified guide to help you administer the test before verifying test results through a third party.

Read more: The CDC says it's safe to cruise -- but don't ditch those COVID-19 tests just yet

After taking the test, you'll receive an emailed report from an eMed lab containing your test results. You'll then present this to an airline representative either on a printed sheet of paper or on your phone.

Although anyone age 2 and older can use these tests, test takers age 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult during the test.

To use this test, first set yourself up somewhere with a strong Wi-Fi connection. Next, visit eMed.com/app/start-testing , and click on "I want to start testing" to begin a virtual visit; during the visit, a guide will walk you through the testing process and show you how to collect a sample.

Be sure to download Abbott's Navica app, where testing results will be available in as little as 15 minutes.

There are a few things to note regarding the BinaxNow at-home tests. First, although all Abbott tests have been extended for use for a full year , the expiration dates printed on the tests that were distributed prior to the test's shelf-life extension may not be accurate. Be sure to look out for a note in your test kits detailing how to calculate the correct expiration date.

Abbott also makes a BinaxNow COVID-19 self-test you can find at pharmacies nationwide including Walgreens and CVS, but these tests are not suitable for travel.

BinaxNow tests must be kept at or below room temperature, so keep that in mind if you're traveling somewhere hot.

Read more about how to use the BinaxNow test in our guide here .

Related: Warning: Your at-home COVID-19 test expiration date might not be accurate

Ellume COVID-19 home test

A second option for travel is Ellume's COVID-19 home test, which you can find on the Target, Walmart and Kroger websites, among other places.

After you purchase the test, you must pay $20 for a video observation through Azova to take the proctored test — similar to the BinaxNow process.

If a family is testing together, you can all join the call at once, but each person testing must make their own appointment.

At the time of your scheduled video call, you'll be connected to a proctor who will guide you through the testing process. Results will be available in 15 minutes or less via text and email. You can also get results directly through the Azova app in the form of a QR code, Credential ID or PDF.

In 2021 , Ellume voluntarily recalled more than 2 million tests, citing "higher-than-acceptable false-positive test results" that incorrectly indicated a user was positive for the coronavirus. Despite the recall, the company assured users that the incidence was "limited."

Even so, be sure to double-check any Ellume test before purchasing to ensure it was not part of the recalled batch.

You can read our guide to using Ellume tests here .

Related: 8 more at-home COVID-19 tests are available from the government, but they can't be used for travel

Qured video-supervised rapid test

Another option for travelers returning from abroad is Qured's video-supervised rapid antigen test , which provides test results within two hours.

You can buy one Qured test online for $35 , after which you should receive an email with a link to activate your kit and schedule your supervised video consultation.

If you select free shipping, you can expect to receive the test within two to five business days. Tests are shipped the next day when ordered before 11 a.m. Monday through Friday. You can also pay $14 to receive the test within two to three business days.

Related: Results in 15 minutes: What to know about the at-home COVID-19 test approved for travel

Other options

While the iHealth rapid tests from the U.S. government don't meet the requirements for use for travel on their own, you can purchase supplemental telehealth proctoring service through iHealth for $24.99 ; the addition of the proctoring service makes the test eligible for use.

A number of other at-home tests can be used for travel when proctored virtually through Azova, including:

• The Flowflex SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Test : Test kit and video observation services cost $89. You can also purchase directly from CVS for $9.99 and get it administered virtually through Azova for $20 .
• The On/Go COVID-19 At-Home Antigen Self-Test : Test kit and video observation services cost $55.
• The Azova At-Home RT-PCR Test : Test kit and video observation services costs $114.99 for a nasal swab test or $118.99 for a saliva test.
• The Lucira Check It COVID-19 Test Kit with Video Observation : Test kit and video observation services cost $89.

Azova offers stand-alone proctoring services for the above tests for $20.

Additionally, you could buy the InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test at either Walgreens for $24 or Walmart for $20. The same goes for the Quidel QuickVue At-Home OTC COVID-19 Test , which is also available at a number of retailers, including Amazon, for $24. Both of these tests can be proctored through Azova.

Bottom line

Be sure to order your test kit well before you depart the U.S. to allow for shipping and delays affecting availability.

You'll need to bring it with you on your trip, so be sure to make room for it in your suitcase and try to carry it on if possible, in case your checked luggage gets lost.

Make sure to double-check any expiration dates and age requirements that might affect the validity of each test.

Several airlines have also partnered with testing providers to provide at-home tests at discounted rates. For example, American Airlines flyers can use promo code AATRAVEL10 when purchasing Qured tests.

Some airlines, including AA and Alaska Airlines , have also begun using third-party apps, such as VeriFly , that allow travelers to upload their negative test results ahead of travel. Other carriers, such as United Airlines , will ask you to upload the test through the airline's own app during the check-in process.

As of late May, the Biden administration has not wavered on its decision to require all incoming passengers to the U.S. to submit a negative predeparture test to enter.

Related: How to save money on pricey rapid COVID-19 PCR tests

Additional reporting by Vikkie Walker.