Free COVID-19 tests are available from the federal government at COVIDtests.gov. Every U.S. household is eligible to order four free at-home tests.
How to Get Tested in Vermont
At-home antigen tests (also called rapid tests or self-tests) meet many testing needs and may be available at pharmacies and retail stores in Vermont. Many test expiration dates have been extended. Check the FDA information on tests to learn more.
- Buy online or in pharmacies and retail stores: Now that the Public Health Emergency declaration for COVID-19 has ended, health insurance plans may no longer cover the costs of these tests. Please contact your health insurance company directly to learn more.
- Search online for locations that offer no-cost COVID-19 testing: Find a location convenient for you, then visit the provider’s website to make an appointment. Use the CDC No-Cost Testing Locator tool
- Contact your health care provider: Medical practices may offer other COVID-19 testing options.
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When to Get Tested
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, test as soon as possible ─ even if your symptoms are mild or if you previously had COVID-19.
If you are using at-home antigen tests, please follow the FDA recommendations on testing with antigen tests. This includes testing more than once, each 48 hours apart.
If you test positive and you are age 50 or older or have a medical condition that may put you at risk for serious illness, reach out to your health care provider to ask about treatment as soon as you get a positive test result.
Learn more about COVID-19 treatment from the Health Department
More on COVID-19 Testing (CDC)
Learn About Test Types
At-home antigen test:
- Recommended if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or think you may have recently been exposed to someone infected with COVID-19.
- Recommended if you have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days.
- If you are symptomatic and test negative, multiple tests should be taken at least 48 hours apart. See Reduce Your Risk of False Negative Results (FDA)
- Approved for ages 2 and older.
PCR test:
- More sensitive in detecting the virus than antigen tests.
- As recommended by your provider after clinical evaluation.
- May take a few days to get results.
- Approved for all ages.
