COVID-19 Tests
In addition to the free on-campus COVID-19 testing available for Cal State LA students, faculty, and staff, there are many ways to get tested for COVID-19 throughout Los Angeles County. The L.A. County Department of Public Health provides a helpful guide on how to find a COVID-19 test. You can get tested:
- At your doctor's office or local health centers
- Call 2-1-1 or visit 211LA if you need help finding a doctor. To find a local health center that offers free testing, visit Community-Based Testing Sites for COVID-19.
- At a local pharmacy
- Many pharmacies offer COVID-19 tests. Visit Community-Based Testing Sites for COVID-19 or visit the website of your local pharmacy for details.
- Walmart with Quest Diagnostics – for ages 2 and up
- CVS Health and Walgreens – for ages 3 and up
- Rite Aid – for ages 4 and up
- Independent pharmacies – visit doineedacovid19test.com
- Many pharmacies offer COVID-19 tests. Visit Community-Based Testing Sites for COVID-19 or visit the website of your local pharmacy for details.
- At a county-sponsored community location
- If you don’t have health insurance, you can get a free COVID-19 test at a community location regardless of your immigration status. If you have health insurance, please contact your doctor or health plan to get tested. Insured individuals can also go to a community location but need to provide health insurance information. Many sites test children of any age. Check with the testing site to find out if they offer PCR and/or antigen tests. Visit the L.A. County COVID-19 testing website or text 844-833-1334 to find a location near you. If you don’t have access to the internet or email or need help arranging a test, call 2-1-1.
- With at-home collection kits or rapid antigen tests
- Home collection kits (PCR tests): You collect the sample, and it is tested in a laboratory. PCR test kits are available for people ages 4 and older who live in L.A. County and have symptoms or think they were exposed to COVID-19. Results are usually available 24 to 48 hours after the lab receives the test. The kits, testing, and mailing are all free through a county program. For details, visit the L.A. County COVID-19 testing website.
- Self-tests (antigen tests/rapid tests): You collect the sample and do the test yourself. Results usually take 15-30 minutes.
- Order free tests from COVIDtests.gov. These rapid tests are sent to you by mail. If you have already ordered tests, check the website as you may be able to order more.
- Buy them from a pharmacy, online, or a store such as a supermarket or big box store (these may be covered in you have insurance – see paying for a test).
Find more information about COVID-19 testing in California from the California State Government.
