Where To Get a Rapid COVID-19 Test in Los Angeles?

As of November 2021, Los Angeles has a 86% COVID-19 vaccination rate and 1,520,504 total reported COVID-19 cases reported. The 7-day daily positivity rate is .98%.

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Rapid COVID-19 Testing Locations in Los Angeles, CA

COVID-19 testing is widely available in Los Angeles at several locations. County-operated testing sites use a PCR test collected by nasal swab, but rapid tests can be scheduled here. Below are a few additional facilities throughout Los Angeles that offer COVID-19 rapid testing.

PCR COVID-19 Testing Sites in Los Angeles, CA

There are several locations where you can get a PCR test for COVID-19 in Los Angeles, including pop-up locations. A PCR test typically takes between 24-48 hours to receive your results. Appointments are currently not needed at LA County and the City of LA testing sites but can still be made, and are preferred. 

It is important to know that some locations require appointments and a health screening before getting tested. You should also call each clinic to find more information about appointments and the criteria required for getting tested. Below is a chart that includes locations where you can get a test:

Additionally, if you think you had COVID-19 in the past, you may qualify to get an antibody test.

When To Get a COVID-19 Test

According to the CDC, these are the current guidelines for getting tested for COVID-19:

• People who have symptoms of COVID-19.
• Most people who have had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period) with someone with confirmed COVID-19.
  • Fully vaccinated people should be tested 3-5 days following known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.
  • People who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 3 months and recovered do not need to get tested following exposure as long as they do not develop new symptoms.
• Unvaccinated people who have taken part in activities that put them at higher risk for COVID-19 because they cannot physically distance themselves as needed to avoid exposure, such as travel, attending large social or mass gatherings, or being in crowded or poorly-ventilated indoor settings.
• People who have been asked or referred to get tested by their healthcare provider, or state, tribal, or territorial health department.

The Cost of a COVID-19 Test

While COVID-19 tests are available at no cost nationwide at health centers and select pharmacies, most COVID-19 diagnostic tests end up costing between $100 and $200 due to additional fees, office visit costs, and administering the test. The fees will depend on your health insurance status, the test you receive, your site of care, and your symptom severity. 

Bottom Line

There are many locations in Los Angeles where you can get a rapid and PCR COVID-19 test. However, you should be aware of appointment requirements and additional fees. Call ahead to see if your preferred facility offers PCR or rapid testing. 

With a Mira membership, you can get affordable urgent care visits, low-cost lab testing, and discounted prescriptions for just $45 per month. Sign up today.