Testing

Last updated November 23, 2020 at 9:57 AM

Free, confidential COVID-19 testing is available to every Californian that needs it. Appointments are required.

On this page you will find:

State-sponsored testing provided by Verily and OptumServe can be found at the link below.

Find a testing location

More testing sites from other providers may be available in your area. Check your county’s COVID-19 website.

Types of tests

Two types of COVID-19 tests are available: Diagnostic tests and antibody tests.

A diagnostic test can show if you have an active coronavirus infection. Currently there are two types of diagnostic tests: viral PCR tests that detect the virus’s genetic material, and antigen tests that detect specific proteins on the surface of the virus. Testing sites listed on this page use viral PCR tests.

Antigen tests usually provide results faster than viral PCR tests at lower cost, but have a higher chance of missing an active infection.  Antigen tests are used on people suspected of having COVID-19 within 5-12 days of symptoms appearing. The FDA has approved antigen tests for use on symptomatic individuals only.

Antibody tests detect past infections. They can determine if you are a good candidate to donate blood plasma. It can take 1-3 weeks after infection for your body to make antibodies.

You can find locations for both viral PCR and antibody tests on the COVID-19 Testing Sites in California map.

Cost for testing

There are no out-of-pocket costs for medically-necessary testing. If you have medical insurance, Verily or OptumServe will bill your insurance company. If you’re uninsured, the government pays for your test.

Who can get tested

California’s testing capacity and turnaround time have improved. As a result, until further notice, all testing requests will have equal priority.

When demand for tests exceed capacity, CDPH will prioritize testing based on risk, as follows:

First priority

  • Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 symptoms
  • Those identified through an outbreak or contact tracing  investigation

Second priority

  • All other individuals with COVID-19 symptoms
  • Close contacts of confirmed cases 
  • People without symptoms, but who are:
    • Residents in group living facilities
    • Healthcare workers who care for COVID-19 patients
    • Workers in group living facilities and in-home support services
    • Workers in the emergency service sector who have frequent interactions with the public or people with COVID-19. This includes first responders and other public service departments.
    • Workers in correctional facilities
    • Hospital admission and discharge patients

Third priority

  • People without symptoms, but who are:
    • Essential workers
    • Education workers who have frequent interactions with students or the public

Fourth priority

  • People without symptoms, but who are:
    • At risk of infection 
    • Being tested by their employer

The COVID-19 Testing Task Force is working to ensure that Californians have access to tests, and laboratories have capacity to meet demand. 

How to get tested

California has partnered with Verily and OptumServe to provide free, confidential testing statewide. Tests are available for everyone, including underserved communities and individuals who are at high risk. 

Testing with Verily

Verily provides drive-through testing. To find a Verily testing site near you and make an appointment:

Complete the screener

You will need a Google account.

Verily testing sites are now open in the following areas:

Testing with OptumServe

Tests are by appointment only. Find a location near you and make an appointment at:

Register to be tested for COVID-19

If you do not have internet access, call 1-888-634-1123.

OptumServe community testing sites serve all individuals who qualify for a test. This includes uninsured, underinsured, undocumented and homeless individuals. You do not need a driver’s license to get this test.

Questions and answers

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