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How Do I Get a PCR Test in Time for Travel?

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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Although the United States accepts certain rapid tests for travel, there are plenty of other destinations that require a PCR test for entry—which can present a serious problem for travelers. Given the current shortage of PCR tests, finding an available appointment can be an impossible challenge—and then you might not even get your results back within the 72 hour window that most destinations require. So how can you get a PCR test in time for your flight? We’ve found some options for travelers. 

One warning: Be prepared to pay for the convenience of getting a PCR test back in time for your flight. Most health insurance plans do not cover COVID tests for travel, and many rapid PCR test providers will charge extra for quick results. 

Rapid PCR Tests

Check to see if your destination accepts rapid PCR tests. These RT-PCR tests offer PCR accuracy but results can be delivered quickly (sometimes in less than an hour). Rapid PCR testing sites can be found at many airports, but if you don’t have an appointment, lines can be extremely long (and you won’t be guaranteed to be able to get a test, no matter how long you wait), so schedule in advance if you can.

What Do You Need for Documentation of Recovery from COVID to Enter the U.S.?

XpresCheck operates many of the airport testing locations, and they offer Rapid PCR tests for $250 with results in as little as 60 minutes. Appointments can be booked online. 

CVS Minute Clinic

Some CVS Minute Clinics offer Rapid PCR tests, which promise results “within hours.” However, appointments for these tests are extremely limited, so you may struggle to actually book one. Lab tests cost $139 out of pocket. 

Urgent Care

Try your local Urgent Care center, as many are now offering rapid PCR test options. Make sure you call or book online (rather than just showing up) as wait times are extremely long at most Urgent Care centers across the United States.

10 COVID Travel Tips from Public Health Experts

PCR Tests With Fast Turnaround Times

Currently, many PCR testing locations are taking up to a week to return results. If you need results quickly for travel, there are some companies that specialize in COVID tests for travel, promising to get results back within a certain time frame.

If you’re relying on a test that requires you to mail in a sample (or doesn’t guarantee results in a certain amount of time), you may wish to book a second test with another company just in case your first one doesn’t come back in time. 

Amazon COVID-19 Test Collection Kit DTC

Even Amazon has gotten into the COVID test game, offering a FDA authorized PCR test for $39.99. This is a mail-in test, but Amazon claims you will get results within 24 hours of the sample arriving at the lab. However, this means you could be cutting it close for getting results in time for your flight if there are any mail delays. 

Passport Health

Passport Health focuses on providing tests specifically for travel or to return to work/school. They do not generally offer tests to symptomatic individuals or close contacts, meaning it may be easier to find a PCR appointment here than at other overwhelmed testing centers. Passport Health has locations in: 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, and Washington, D.C. 

However, note that Passport Health does not guarantee results within 72 hours. 

5 Apps You Need for COVID-19 Travel

Looking for a RT-PCR test for Hawaii? Azova offers two easy options, both are which approved for the Hawaii Safe Travels Program. Choose from an in-person test for $119 or an at-home saliva RT-PCR test (with video observation) for $114.99. Be sure to follow Azova’s guidelines on when to book your test in order to get results in time for your test as the at-home test requires you to mail in a sample for processing. 

Same-Day COVID Testing Services

Many local companies have sprung up to meet the needs of travelers who need rapid PCR test results. If you Google: “Same-day PCR tests near me” you should be able to find a clinic or concierge medical service that will guarantee COVID results in time for travel. Some will even send a technician to your house to collect your sample, saving you the time and hassle of going to get a test. Of course, these concierge services tend to be pricey, and you can expect to pay anywhere between $150-$450 for these tests. 

Here are some examples of same-day PCR testing companies:

• Innovative Express Care , Chicago
• Longwood Health , Boston
• Carecube , New York CIty
• Drip Hydration , Various locations

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PCR tests for travel: everything you need to know

Oct 26, 2021 • 6 min read

Which type of COVID-19 test do you need to travel? © Ergin Yalcin / Getty Images

Since the pandemic began in March 2020, PCR tests, antigen tests, and LAMP tests have all entered the common lexicon. But what’s the difference between all of the ways to test for COVID-19 and which one do you need to travel? 

It’s a labyrinth of acronyms and technologies, but getting it wrong when traveling can be a real headache of denied boarding ⁠—or even being sent back to where you came from. We explain what they all are, when you need them and how to find them when you’re on the road. 

What’s a PCR test and why do I need one?

A Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test looks for genetic material within a sample via a process that takes a matter of hours. For COVID-19 purposes, it amplifies the sample taken from your nose, throat or saliva to try to find genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that causes COVID-19. If the test finds that material, you have or have recently had the disease. The Cleveland Clinic has some further explanations of how PCR tests work .

PCR is usually officially called RT-PCR (RT for Reverse Transcription) and is one of a group of Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) that include a variety of methods—NEAR, TMA, LAMP, HDA, CRISPR, and SDA—all of which are explained well by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . But all you really need to know for travel is what the relevant country you’re traveling to wants.

Use government websites to check for the latest entry requirements to your destination, or check out our Health Hub . In practice, you may need either a specific PCR or other kind of NAAT test to travel internationally. Many countries require a recent negative test in order to enter, with some even requiring testing for vaccinated travelers. Do check carefully, and either print out or screenshot the requirements so you can confirm that you’ve got it right with whoever is administering your pre-departure test.

Some countries require that tests be conducted by a healthcare provider like a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, while others are fine with the kits that let you swab yourself and mail a pack off to the lab for testing.

Some countries also require you to take another test after your arrival. You’ll want to check, but in this case the cheaper at-home, mail-off test kits might save you some money⁠—although if you have to quarantine until you get the result it’s faster to get swabbed in a healthcare setting with its own lab.

How is a PCR test different from other tests: antigen, LAMP, TMA or others?

PCR tests differ from others in what they’re testing for and how they process the sample. In many cases, the actual sample extraction from your nose, throat or saliva can be the same—it’s what’s done with it that counts.

But besides the common PCR test, some destinations accept antigen tests , which look for specific molecules on the surface of the virus. These are much faster—it might take 15–30 minutes for most of them—and come either as home test kits or in a healthcare setting like a pharmacy, test centre or doctor’s office. 

By and large, only antigen tests administered by a healthcare provider, with the written documentation you’ll receive, are considered valid for travel purposes. Bring the requirements of your destination country with you when you book the test to make sure. 

Read more: Everything you need to know about the EU's digital COVID-19 certificate 

As more destinations introduce vaccine passes to enter cultural sites and restaurants, some countries⁠—like France and Spain⁠—also accept recent antigen tests for the Digital COVID certificate. 

Where can I get a PCR—or antigen—test for travel?

Whether you’re entering a country or returning home, you may have to provide written proof of a PCR or antigen test over the last 24, 48 or 72 hours. Note that this validity window for PCR and antigen tests may well be different based on where you’re going. 

Antigen tests are widely available at pharmacies, with results within 15-30 minutes, but tests for travel purposes may incur charges—and tests for public health purposes may not give you the right paperwork for travel. 

PCR tests are less widely available and take longer, so you’ll want to do some more planning. In many countries you should be able to get a PCR test with documentation for travel at a pharmacy⁠—but be aware that in many places these are still quite expensive. If you’re struggling to find somewhere that provides tests, you could contact your airline and see if they can help. 

Check your own country’s embassy in your destination, that country’s embassy in your own country, as well as the relevant airlines and airports to get more information on tests. 

How do I get a PCR test abroad?

Since PCR tests take longer and require more equipment than an antigen test, it can be harder to find them. Given varying requirements that the test be conducted within one, two or three days, if you need a test to travel, it’s best to have one done in a healthcare setting (ideally at a lab) than using an at-home mail-in kit. 

The US Department of Health & Human Services maintains a list of community-based testing sites in the US , while the UK government maintains a list for arrival tests that may also be useful for passengers departing the UK . 

France, too, has a COVID test location database that allows you to search by location and to choose PCR, antigen or both. Germany does as well, broken out by region . Use a translation app or ask at your hotel for help.

For other countries, run a web search like “COVID travel test”, PCR or antigen, and the country name, but make sure you aren’t tripped up by private companies gaming the search results.

Can I take a PCR or antigen test at home for travel, or bring a test with me?

Most countries don’t accept self-administered tests for travel. That said, there are some options where you bring a test with you and book a video call with a healthcare professional who monitors you when taking the test—either then sent off to a lab for a PCR test or developed where you are for an antigen test.

On balance, with both PCR tests and antigen tests widely available in many locations, this seems like a lot of extra overhead, together with the possibility of tests going astray in the post. 

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out Lonely Planet's Health Hub .

You may also like:  What is a vaccine passport and do I need one to travel? What is the IATA Travel Pass and do I need it to travel? What happens if I'm denied entry to a country on arrival?

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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..

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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

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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.

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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.  

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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.

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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.

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New COVID testing rules for international air travel start: What you need to know

Planning to fly into the U.S. soon? Be prepared for more stringent testing requirements. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is  shortening the testing window all international air travelers have to take a pre-departure coronavirus test from three days to one. Previously, only unvaccinated travelers had to take a test no more than one day before travel. 

The reduced timeframe aims to "provide less opportunity to develop infection with the omicron variant prior to arrival in the United States," according to the updated CDC order . 

U.S. airlines have been asked to collect contact-tracing information for inbound international travelers and send it to the CDC "upon request" since Nov. 8, when the country adopted a new set of international travel restrictions. 

The information collected includes names, addresses, phone numbers, emails and dates of birth.  

Here's what international travelers should know about the new testing requirements: 

► Biden unveils COVID-19 winter plan: Tighter travel rules, free at-home tests and boosters

When do the new rules go into effect?

The new rules went into effect Monday and affect all air passengers 2 years and older flying into the U.S. from a foreign county, regardless of vaccination status or nationality. Travelers who can show proof that they have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days are exempt.  

► Travel updates: CDC orders airlines to share information on passengers from 8 countries, shortens testing window

What sort of test can I take to fly into the US? 

Travelers must take a viral test, which includes antigen tests and nucleic acid amplification tests such as:

• reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests
• reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) tests
• transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) tests
• nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEAR) tests
• helicase-dependent amplification (HDA) tests.

Tests must be authorized for use in the country it was administered, according to the CDC.

While PCR tests are popular, results can take days to return. Albert Ko, a public health professor at Yale, suggests travelers take rapid tests accepted by the CDC to ensure they get their results back in time. 

Since testing options vary by country, "my advice would be to scope this out really well," Ko said.

Some countries offer rapid testing at local pharmacies. Travelers can also find them inside airports, but Ko warns that these tests – while convenient – can be more expensive. 

Ko himself is set to travel to Brazil this week and plans to pack an at-home rapid antigen test he can use to return to the U.S. 

Travelers should note that not all self-tests are eligible for entry into the U.S. The tests must be performed in front of a telehealth proctor and meet other qualifications laid out by the CDC.

For those who want to find out more about their testing options, airline websites can be a useful tool. Many international carriers offer information on testing requirements and where to find testing centers overseas. 

► Free at-home COVID tests: Here's what travelers should know

Why is the order one day and not 24 hours?

The one-day period offers more flexibility than a 24-hour time limit and allows travelers to take a test any time the day before departure. For example, travelers with a 5 p.m. flight on a Friday can board with a negative test taken at 8 a.m. on Thursday.  

Do I need to take another test after arrival?

The CDC recommends  all inbound air passengers get another viral test three to five days after arrival, and says unvaccinated travelers should quarantine for seven days after travel.

Do I need to wear a mask on the plane?

Yes. The federal mask mandate, which requires travelers to mask up on airplanes, trains, buses and in airports and train stations, was  extended through March 18.  

Travelers who refuse to wear masks may face fines ranging from a minimum of $500 to $3,000 for repeat offenders, although the mandate does carve out exemptions for travelers under the age of 2 and people with certain disabilities.

► Federal mask mandate to be extended: Be prepared to mask up on planes through mid-March

  Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

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COVID-19 Testing for Travel in 2024 [Airlines, Airports, Hotels]

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Types of Tests

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Now that travel restrictions are starting to ease, you might be planning for a trip. Whether you are traveling domestically or internationally, you will possibly be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test in order to travel. Some are free (with or without insurance), while others might require you to pay a fee. Some countries even build COVID-19 testing fees into their entry requirements.

In addition to cost, something else to consider is that your results are time-sensitive, meaning that you need to have your test completed during a certain amount of time prior to arrival or departure. We’ve pulled together some common locations that offer these COVID-19 tests and take these requirements into consideration so that you can get back to traveling as soon as possible!

What COVID-19 Tests Do You Need To Travel?

There are many different types of tests for coronavirus, but which test do you specifically need for travel? 

Antibody Tests

Antibody tests are blood tests that can identify if a person has COVID-19 antibodies, meaning that they have already recovered from the virus. These tests aren’t regularly used for travel since antibody tests can’t be used to diagnose an active COVID-19 infection. 

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic tests can show if you have an active COVID-19 viral infection and whether you might need to take steps to quarantine or isolate yourself from others. There are 2 types of diagnostic tests — rapid and PCR tests.

Rapid antigen tests can show an active COVID-19 infection by detecting specific proteins on the surface of the coronavirus. These rapid tests are popular for their quick turnaround times but are rarely accepted when it comes to travel due to the high number of false-positive results . These are normally used at airports in addition to the traveler providing PCR test results, so it may still be important that you can find a rapid COVID-19 test near you.

The other common option is a Polymerase Chain Reaction (or PCR) test. These PCR tests are the most reliable option for detecting active COVID-19 infections as results are sent to a lab to be confirmed. Due to this, a negative PCR test is what is typically required to travel . Our guide will specifically note sites that are providing PCR tests.

Bottom Line: Ultimately, what test you need and when you need to take it depends on where you are traveling.

Effective December 6, 2021, if you’re a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (over the age of 2) traveling back to the U.S. from abroad, the CDC now requires that you provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 1 day of departure (regardless of vaccination status). According to the CDC, “Rapid tests are acceptable if they are a viral test that meet the requirements under the Order.”

If you are traveling from abroad and are not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you must be fully vaccinated and provide a negative test within 1 day of departure. You are allowed to travel with a child that has been unvaccinated, but they must also provide a negative test taken within 1 day of departure (if they are over the age of 2).

Without this information, you will be prohibited from flying to the U.S.

There are several exemptions to this rule:

• If you have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days, you can travel with evidence of recovery (such as a positive COVID-19 test result) as well as a letter from a trusted professional stating that you are cleared to travel
• Travelers arriving via a land border (Mexico or Canada)
• Flight crew members do not need to present a negative COVID-19 test

Bottom Line: If your travel doesn’t involve an exception, you will need to find a way to obtain a negative PCR test internationally before your return flight.

Where Are COVID-19 Tests Required?

There are a number of locations within the U.S. where having either a COVID-19 test result or evidence of completed vaccination can help you to avoid a quarantine (self or supervised) period upon arrival.

You must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test if you have not been fully vaccinated to visit the following locations:

• Puerto Rico
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• Washington, D.C.

Each country has its own requirements related to COVID-19 testing. These requirements relate to what tests are acceptable and what tests will be required before arrival vs. upon arrival, as well as how recently you must have taken the test. Be sure to check out our guide to where Americans can travel internationally for more information about these country-specific requirements.

COVID-19 tests are available at no cost nationwide at health centers and select pharmacies. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act  “ensures that COVID-19 testing is free to anyone in the U.S., whether or not you have insurance.”

If you choose to get your test at a location outside of these supported locations, COVID-19 PCR tests can cost anywhere from $20 to $1,419 per single test ( according to recent studies ) but these costs are usually covered by insurance unless noted otherwise.

If you are traveling internationally and are required to get a PCR test upon arrival at your destination or prior to your return trip to the U.S., you will need to refer to that country’s COVID-19 embassy site to determine your cost.

Most states or countries that require negative COVID-19 tests for entry or to avoid quarantine use a 48- to 72-hour timeframe. This can start with either the time of your departure or arrival at your final destination. Depending on the distance of the location, this may be extended to accommodate travel time. Knowing this, it is clear that it is important to find a location that can provide timely results.

Results vary greatly depending on where you are located, but generally take 1 to 7 days to be returned per the FDA. Ultimately, the best way to find out how long it will take in any particular area is to go to the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) website and look at the option by state. The facilities listed may include the expected wait time to receive the results.

Once you’ve received your negative test result, what do you do with it? Most airlines have partnered with a third party or created a system to upload your test results. This means that you will either upload an electronic result or even take a photo of your negative test in the case of some rapid tests.

Here are a few examples:

• Common Pass Health Passport — United, JetBlue
• VeriFLY Health Passport App — American Airlines
• IATA Travel Pass — Emirates, Etihad, Singapore, Turkish, and many more

Other airlines, such as Delta and Hawaiian Airlines, are allowing you to upload test results to their websites directly. At the end of the day, be sure to check with your airline directly to see how to upload your negative test result.

COVID-19 Testing Options by Airline

Airlines are partnering with other companies to make it easier for travelers to get tested for COVID-19.

Alaska Airlines offers multiple options for getting your COVID-19 PCR test.

At-Home Testing

Alaska Airlines is working with  Costco Wholesale to offer an at-home testing option for travelers ages 5 and up. These tests cost $114.99 each and you must also complete a video appointment with a doctor. Once completed, you ship it back via UPS overnight and results are available in 24 to 48 hours.

Alaska recommends that you purchase these tests at least 1 to 2 weeks before your trip to ensure that you can confirm a video appointment slot.

In-Person Testing

Alaska Airlines has partnered with Carbon Health to offer in-person testing for Alaska flyers. These Carbon Health tests cost between $150 and $165, and you must schedule your appointment in advance.

You’ll receive the same or next-day results at all of their testing sites in the following cities:

• Los Angeles

American Airlines uses VeriFLY, a mobile app, to help streamline test results and other AA preflight travel requirements. There are also many options offered for COVID-19 testing.

American has partnered with LetsGetChecked  for at-home PCR tests. American recommends purchasing your test at least 5 days before departure. Passengers flying to all of the international locations that American Airlines currently serves can use these test kits.

You will have results within 48 hours of receipt, but you will also need to complete a virtual visit with a medical professional. This kit costs $119.

You can also order a testing kit through eMed if you have a roundtrip flight. You will receive a rapid test for departure and 2 rapid tests to bring along with you on your trip. You can mail these in without having to find a lab in the country that you visit. Tests cost $150.

American Airlines has partnered with over 150+  CareNow  clinics that offer testing at $139. Results are available within 15 minutes.

GoHealth is another option for in-person testing. You can get a test at any of over 150 locations with results in 15 minutes. Testing is conducted through your insurance or at rates available upon request.

Passengers can use FlyReady  to upload their COVID-19 test results to ensure acceptance of results for entry.

Delta has partnered with AZOMA to offer the Ellume COVID-19 test  so that passengers can test themselves and upload the results before departure and pack another test to take before returning back to the U.S. Test kits are $50 and come with a video observation to validate results.

Delta offers a list of in-person providers that it recommends using based on your location.

Hawaii is one of the only states requiring evidence of vaccination OR evidence of a negative test to avoid a 10-day mandatory quarantine.

Hawaiian Airlines is going through Vault Health to provide any at-home tests for $119. Results are available within 24 hours after receipt.

Drive-Through Testing

Hawaiian Airlines has partnered with Worksite Labs to provide drive-through nasal swab appointments at Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), and San Francisco (SFO). Each test costs $90 with results provided within 24 hours or $150 for results within 12 hours.

Travelers originating from Seattle (SEA) and Portland (PDX) can schedule an appointment with US BioTek Laboratories . If you need results within 36 hours, tests will cost $90 to $105, but if you need results within 24 hours, your test will cost $90 to $165.

For travelers originating from LAS, you can receive a nasal or throat swab test at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada . Tests cost $130 per person for results within 36 hours.

JetBlue has a few options for international travelers.

Like Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue has also partnered with Vault Health to provide at-home test kits for travelers to Aruba, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, or Mexico. Each kit costs $119 and results will be provided within 72 hours.

JetBlue offers many in-person location options through XpressCheck.

Locations are available at:

• Boston (BOS)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• New York (JFK and LGA)
• Newark (EWR)
• Orlando (MCO)

Southwest Airlines has recommended partners for those travelers heading to Hawaii .

Southwest has partnered with Vault Health for COVID-19 testing. This test costs $119 and you will receive results within 24 hours after its arrival at the lab.

Southwest lists a few recommended partners, including CVS MinuteClinics , Kaiser Permanente , and Walgreens .

United has multiple options for testing.

United is using ADL Health to provide at-home PCR test kits for flyers at their request. If you’ve already booked a trip, visit the Travel-Ready Center to find more information about the test and order one.

Travelers must mail their test back 72 hours before travel and get the results 24 to 48 hours before their flight. Each test costs $119.

United has partnered with Color to offer both day-of and drive-through testing for travelers flying from San Francisco (SFO) to Hawaii and Canada. Eligible passengers will receive information and a sign-up link via email 1 week before departure.

These tests cost $105 at the United Technical Operations parking lot at SFO. You must make an appointment for approximately 72 hours before travel, with most results coming back within 48 hours.

United has partnered with XpressCheck at many airport locations (which we’ll list in more detail below).

COVID-19 Testing Options at Airports

The following airports are offering COVID-19 testing. Keep in mind that the types of tests vary based on how quickly you need the test results and what type of test you get, and some locations are only allowing passengers traveling on certain routes to obtain a test.

Here are some notable international airports offering COVID-19 testing options. This list is not all-inclusive, so be sure to check your destination airport to see if tests are available to you.

Offering COVID-19 testing at hotels is also becoming more common as a way to draw travelers back by offering convenient testing options. Testing is common at many resorts throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. A few examples include:

Hotel Chains

• Accor — For Accor-managed properties in the U.S. or Canada, guests can request a free PreCheck PCR testing kit by x.labs to complete at home before checking in.
• Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts — Free COVID-19 antigen testing is available at all of the brand’s resorts in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Mexico as long as you book a stay of at least 3 nights. If you need to extend your stay due to a positive result, your stay of 10 nights is also covered.
• Karisma Hotels & Resorts  — All properties in Riviera Maya, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica are offering  free COVID-19 antigen testing  to guests while CDC requirements are in place. PCR testing will also be available for a discounted fee. If you need to extend your stay at the resort due to a positive test, your stay of up to 14 days is covered.
• Marriott — If you stay at least 3 nights at a select Marriott hotel or resort in Mexico and the Caribbean, you (and 1 other guest) are eligible to receive a free COVID-19 test prior to your departure back to the U.S. In addition, if travel is delayed for a related reason (like a positive or delayed test), you can extend your stay at a discounted rate of 50% off the available flexible rate.
• Meliá Hotels International — Select properties throughout Mexico and the Dominican Republic have launched free, on-site antigen tests . In addition to COVID-19 testing, these properties are also providing free travel insurance with all reservations, which allows for free stays of up to 15 days if you must quarantine.
• Playa Hotels & Resorts — Playa offers free COVID-19 antigen testing on-site to registered guests returning to the U.S. at all 17 of its resorts across Mexico and throughout the Caribbean.
• Sandals & Beaches Resorts — Free COVID-19 testing is available at all Sandals and Beaches properties while the CDC has its requirement for a negative test in place. For more information on the tests and other COVID-guarantees, see its website .
• Velas Resorts — Guests at a Velas resort can get a free COVID-19 antigen test provided at your resort in Mexico. If you need to quarantine, you will be offered a stay at a 75% discount.

Hot Tip: Many resorts are offering these services for free or a discounted fee, so it would be a good idea to inquire about the procedures before booking your stay.

Additional COVID-19 Testing Resources

If you’re looking for other options, know that tests are available at no cost throughout the country at health centers and some pharmacies.

Private clinics and academic labs are available for COVID-19 tests and will bill your insurance provider directly. If you don’t have insurance, you may have to pay the full amount. You can get a COVID-19 test at:

• Government-operated facilities
• Private clinics
• Passport Health

To find a place to get a rapid or PCR COVID-19 test near you, you can contact your primary care doctor or search the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) website .

Neighborhood drugstores often offer PCR testing at no additional cost if using insurance or if you fall under some federal programs for those without insurance.

Pharmacies that may offer COVID-19 testing include:

• Local independent pharmacies
• Walmart (in partnership with Quest Diagnostics)

Something else to consider is that many countries are now allowing evidence of vaccination in lieu (or in addition to) a negative COVID-19 test.

We have an article detailing all the different options for standardized immunity passports and how this might be implemented, but for now, each country has its own requirements as to what is required for Americans to enter.

Getting a negative COVID-19 test in order to travel will likely be the new normal for the foreseeable future. Making sure you know which test is required and when is the first step that needs to occur. The next step is finding a good place to get your test.

There are many options that provide this testing — ranging from your local pharmacy to airports, and even hotels at your destination. Between all of these options, the hope is that travel can be safe once again.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rapid covid-19 test.

A rapid test is also known as an antigen test. This test detects protein fragments specific to the COVID-19 that show if you have an active case of the virus. Results are usually back in as little as 15 minutes, but often have a high number of false positives. The more reliable option is known as a PCR test, but these results usually take longer to arrive (between 1 and 3 days).

Does American Airlines require COVID-19 testing?

American Airlines does not mandate COVID-19 testing, but it does enforce requirements based on where you are traveling to. Be sure to check out AA’s COVID-19 travel page for current requirements based on your destination.

Do I need to get tested for COVID-19 before I travel?

If you are traveling domestically, you may want to get tested to avoid quarantine, period. In addition, Hawaii requires proof of a negative COVID-19 result or evidence of completed vaccination.

If you are traveling internationally, it is likely that you will have to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test or completed vaccination to enter, but be sure to check travel requirements here . Additionally, you will need to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test to return to the U.S.

Do I need a COVID-19 test to fly domestic?

While it is not required to have a COVID-19 test to travel domestically, you may still want to get one. If you fly to certain locations within the U.S. that require a quarantine, like Hawaii, it may come in handy. If you have evidence of a negative COVID-19 test, you could avoid either a recommended or mandated quarantine.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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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.

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COVID-19 PCR Testing: Choose The Option That's Right For You

COVID-19 Test (At-Home Collection Kit)

Get a COVID-19 PCR home collection kit to find out if you have COVID-19.

COVID-19 + Flu + RSV Test Home Collection Kit

Is it COVID-19, the flu or RSV? Our one swab test can find out.

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About our COVID-19 PCR Test

Detects known variants, gold standard, 60m+ pcr tests performed, trusted by doctors, learn more about covid-19, test comparison: understanding the different covid-19 tests.

Do you know what a PCR test is? What happens to those nasal swabs after they’re taken? And what does it mean to have antibodies? Learn the answers to these common questions and more, so you can make the right decisions for your health and safety.

A Guide To COVID-19 Testing For Small Businesses

Helping your business get back to work safely.

COVID-19 Testing Options to Detect Current Infection vs. Prior Infection

Get a better understanding of COVID-19 testing options – from what each type of test actually detects to sample collection and results. Know the facts to determine what’s best for you.

Treatments & Vaccines

What covid-19 treatments are available.

Though patients can recover from COVID-19 on their own, some patients are at risk for becoming seriously ill. There are now treatments available to assist with COVID-19 recovery, such as monoclonal antibodies, oral antivirals, or hospital treatments like antiviral drugs or convalescent plasma. Talk to your doctor and visit the  HHS website  for more information.

Labcorp Supports COVID-19 Blood Plasma Donation

We are proud to be part of The Fight Is In Us coalition to increase donations of blood plasma with COVID-19 antibodies. Blood plasma is being evaluated as a possible treatment for patients with an active COVID-19 infection. Public health authorities have asked for help with expanding the population of potential plasma donors. If you have recovered from COVID-19, you can test for antibodies by talking with your healthcare provider or by requesting one through  Labcorp.

Vaccination works

Vaccination has been shown to be very effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalization for COVID-19. Labcorp has worked with several companies for their COVID-19 vaccination clinical trials. The more people who are vaccinated, the more likely we are as a society to move beyond this current pandemic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of test is this.

The Labcorp OnDemand COVID-19 test is an NAAT test, also known as a PCR test. PCR tests are considered the  gold standard by the CDC  for diagnosing COVID-19 because of their sensitiviy and specificity. 

How long does it take to get test results back?

Currently the average time to deliver results is 1-2 days from when the sample is received at the lab. Our labs process samples seven days a week. Check with your  local FedEx  for pick up and drop off schedules. 

Is it painful to collect the nasal swab sample?

Sample collection is quick and easy. The kit includes a short nasal swab that is inserted into the lower nostril, reducing the discomfort associated with longer nasopharyngeal swabs.

Check out our  COVID-19 FAQs  for more information.

*Labcorp’s COVID-19 PCR test has not been FDA cleared or approved, has been authorized by FDA under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), and has been authorized only for the detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens. The test is only authorized for the duration of the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of emergency use of in vitro diagnostic tests for detection and/or diagnosis of COVID-19 under Section 564(b)(1) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 360bbb-3(b)(1), unless the authorization is terminated or revoked sooner.

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CDC: All Air Travelers Must Test Negative for COVID-19 One Day Before Flying to the U.S.

Brandon Bell / Getty Images

Key Takeaways

• All individuals aged 2 and older must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding a plane to the U.S.
• The CDC now requires travelers to take the test within a day of departure, rather than within three days, as was previously allowed.
• People using transportation services, like planes and trains, must also continue to wear face coverings through mid-March.

Starting on December 6, all air passengers traveling to the United States must show a negative COVID-19 test from within one day of departure before boarding their flight.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shortened the testing window from three days to one. All travelers two years or older are required to show a negative test result regardless of vaccination status or citizenship.

The one-day testing requirement affords more flexibility than a 24-hour rule. For instance, someone who plans to travel at 5 p.m. on Monday can present a test taken at 8 a.m. Sunday.

“In general, the closer your test is to a specific activity that you're testing for, the more valuable it's going to be,” Amesh Adalja, MD , a professor of infectious disease at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, told Verywell. “A test that is three days old is less valuable than the test that is one day old, in terms of detecting and preventing transmission.”

People who recently recovered from COVID-19 may opt out of the testing requirement by showing proof of recovery, such as a positive COVID-19 test from within 90 days of the flight, and a note from a health provider or public health official showing they are cleared to travel.

Per updated international travel restrictions implemented in November , the CDC is asking U.S. airlines to collect contact-tracing information from international travelers.

The Biden administration also extended a mask mandate for people traveling on airplanes, buses, trains, and other transportation services to March 18, 2022. The original mandate was slated to end in mid-January.

The stricter travel rules come about a week after the White House imposed travel bans on South Africa and seven other countries in the neighboring region due to concerns over the Omicron variant . U.S. citizens and permanent residents are exempt from the ban.

Which Test to Choose?

The CDC will accept many viral tests that are authorized for use by the country in which it is administered. Types of accepted tests include:

• reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests
• reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) tests
• transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) tests
• nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEAR) tests
• helicase-dependent amplification (HDA) tests.

Travelers can use an at-home rapid tests that have received Emergency Use Authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, such as BinaxNOW and QuickVue. These at-home tests must be taken under the real-time supervision of a telehealth provider affiliated with the test manufacturer. The telehealth provider must be able to confirm the individual’s identity, observe them taking the test, and confirm the test result.  

While PCR tests tend to be highly sensitive, it may take 24 hours to several days to receive results. Antigen tests, also called rapid tests, can deliver results in as little time as 15 minutes.

When it comes to choosing the right test , Adalja said “the quickest one and the easiest one is the best one to get.”

For the purposes of knowing whether a traveler will transmit virus to others, antigen tests will suffice, Adalja said. Individuals who experience symptomatic illness should get a PCR test to know if they need to receive treatment and self-isolate.

“If you’re trying to simply ask, ‘am I safe to be on a plane, am I safe to be in this area, or am I safe to do this activity?’ then an antigen test is sufficient in an asymptomatic person,” Adalja said.

Rapid tests are available at many major airports, but they may be costly. Pharmacies, health clinics, or supervised at-home tests may offer cheaper alternatives.

For more information about what COVID-19 safety protocol and requirements, you can also check the website of the airline you plan to fly. Some international airlines provide information about where to get a COVID-19 test near the departure airport.

Other Considerations for Safe Travel

The number one thing travelers can do to keep themselves safe and minimize the chances of spreading COVID-19 is to be fully vaccinated, Adalja said. Increasing vaccination rates globally can also minimize the emergence of new viral variants.

“We can do testing, tracing, isolating, that's all important. But this problem of variants is always going to be there as long as there's a swath of the world that doesn't have enough vaccination,” Adalja said.

The CDC recommends all people who enter the U.S. from abroad be tested for COVID-19 three to five days after arrival. Unvaccinated people should quarantine for at least seven days, the agency said .

What This Means For You

If you're traveling internationally, make sure to read the COVID-19 regulations for the airline you are flying with. If you're planning to fly into the U.S., you need a negative test taken within one day of departure. As experts learn more about the transmissibility of the Omicron variant, be prepared for travel restrictions and requirements to change.

The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our  coronavirus news page .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Requirement for Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test or Documentation of Recovery from COVID-19 .

By Claire Bugos Bugos is a senior news reporter at Verywell Health. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Northwestern University.

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.

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.

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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.

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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

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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 […]

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Russia Travel Guidelines

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Passengers entering or transiting the Russian Fed. must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken at most 2 days before arrival. The test result must be in English or Russian.

Quarantine is subject to result of on arrival test at Airport

Covid-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were full vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival.

FAQs on Russia Guidelines

Are indians allowed to travel to russia.

Indian travellers can visit Russia provided they test negative in a RT-PCR (NAAT) test done 72 hours ahead of their flight’s scheduled departure, and post arrival in Russia they need to isolate themselves for 14 days.

Is a COVID-19 test necessary to enter Russia?

Yes, you need to test negative in a RT-PCR (NAAT) test done 72 hours prior to your departure time, and carry your reports in order to be allowed to board your flight.

Is masking mandatory in Russia?

Yes, you need to wear masks when you use the public transport, when you are in a public space, parking lots, and also when you are stepping into a closed environment with lots of other people in attendance such as elevators. You need to wear gloves too while using the public transport in Russia’s capital city, Moscow.

Can I travel around in Russia without quarantining myself?

Visitors from India need to quarantine themselves for 14 days upon arrival in Russia.

Is intercity and interstate travel allowed in Russia?

Public transport of all kinds have once more opened up in Russia. An Indian traveller has the permission to travel across the country whether intercity or interstate, and avail all available modes of public transport provided they follow the necessary COVID-19 protocols such as wearing masks and gloves, and maintaining social distancing.

Have the restaurants and bars opened up yet in Russia?

A system of QR codes have been implemented in Moscow for those wishing to eat out at cafes, restaurants and bars. You need to fill up an application connected to a centralised government database so that you can get the QR code informing the authorities that you have either been vaccinated, recovered from COVID-19 in the past six months, or have a negative RT-PCR test from an approved Moscow lab within the last 72 hours.

Are there any restrictions on the number of people allowed to gather in a particular place?

In Moscow, for any indoor gathering no more than 50 people are allowed at a time. And for outdoor events, the limit is 500 guests.

Are all amusement options open in Saint Petersburg?

All amusement parks and water parks in Saint Petersburg are currently closed to public.

Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry into Russia?

Yes, there are mandatory temperature screenings among other diagnostic and protective measures implemented at all international airports and other major transit hubs of Russia.

Is there a curfew or lockdown in any Russian city at the moment?

No, all Russian cities have opened up once more, and Indian tourists are free to visit them.

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Yatra Online, Inc is the parent company of Yatra Online Limited (formerly known as Yatra Online Private Limited). which is based in Gurugram, India, and is India's leading Corporate Travel services provider with over 700+ Corporate customers, and one of India's leading online travel companies and operates the website Yatra.com. The company provides information, pricing, availability, and booking facility for domestic and international air travel, domestic and international hotel bookings, holiday packages, buses, trains, in city activities, inter-city, and point-to-point cabs, homestays, and cruises. As a leading platform of accommodation options, Yatra provides real-time bookings for more than 103,000 hotels in India and over 1,500,000 hotels around the world. Launched in August 2006 , Yatra was ranked the Most Trusted E-Commerce Travel Brand in India in the Economic Times Brand Equity Survey 2016 for the second successive year, and has won the National Tourism Award for 'Best Domestic Tour Operator (Rest of India)' conferred by the Government of India for the fourth time.

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