COVID-19 testing locations and guidance

When to get tested

• If you have signs or symptoms of COVID-19 get tested as early as possible regardless of vaccination status.
• If you are exposed to someone who has COVID-19 (within 6 feet of the person for 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period):
• If fully vaccinated seek testing 5-7 days after exposure. If symptoms develop within 14 days of exposure, isolate and consider retesting.
• If unvaccinated seek testing immediately. If you test negative, continue to quarantine and seek testing again 5-7 days after last exposure, or immediately if symptoms develop during quarantine.
• See Isolation & Quarantine for detailed guidance.
• After travel if you are unvaccinated: Those who are unvaccinated must get a COVID-19 test 3-5 days after domestic travel and seek repeat testing if symptoms develop within 14 days of travel.

Testing options

1. Start with your healthcare provider. If you have symptoms or a known exposure, your healthcare provider is required by law to get you a test and there should be no cost to you for testing, whether you have insurance or not. Verify costs with your provider before you go.
2. Free testing sites in King County are open to anyone regardless of immigration or insurance status. Priority testing is given to those with symptoms or immediate risk for COVID-19. Advance appointment recommended. Test results may take up to 72 hours and are not guaranteed.
3. Rapid (antigen) at-home test kits can be purchased at a pharmacy or other retailer or you can have the test performed at a facility that specializes in rapid testing. See a list of rapid testing (FAQ #3). Results are ready within 15 minutes and are a good option if you need a test right away for sports events, travel or other non-urgent testing need.

Testing for travel

• Testing is not required before or after U.S. travel if fully vaccinated. Limit travel if you are not fully vaccinated or if traveling with unvaccinated children.
• Travel requirements vary by state. Check local guidance before you go.
• If you need a test for travel, it is not guaranteed that you will receive a result within 72 hours of departure at any of King County's free testing sites. It's also not guaranteed that the results will meet the specific requirements for all countries.
• If you need a test for travel, look for rapid testing options that specialize in travel testing.
• See frequently asked questions on testing and travel for more information.
• For full guidance on domestic (travel within U.S) and international travel, see the CDC website.