HIV Testing
The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested. Testing is quick, confidential, and often free. Knowing your status gives you the power to protect your health and the health of your partners.
CDC Recommendation
Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine healthcare. People with certain risk factors should get tested more often — at least once a year.
Who Should Get Tested?
At Least Once (Ages 13–64)
The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine healthcare. This is regardless of risk level.
At Least Once a Year (Higher Risk)
- Gay and bisexual men
- People who have had more than one sexual partner since their last HIV test
- People who inject drugs or share needles
- People who exchange sex for money or drugs
- People who have had another STI
- People who have had sex with someone whose HIV status is unknown
Types of HIV Tests
There are three types of tests used to diagnose HIV infection. The type of test and when it was taken can affect the accuracy of results. The window period is the time between HIV exposure and when a test can accurately detect HIV.
1. Nucleic Acid Test (NAT)
Looks for HIV in the blood. This test can tell if a person has HIV or how much virus is present (viral load test). This test is very expensive and not routinely used for screening unless the person recently had a high-risk exposure.
2. Antigen/Antibody Test
Recommended for testing done in labs. It looks for both HIV antibodies and antigens. An antigen is a part of the virus itself and is present during acute HIV infection. A rapid version of this test is available and can be done in a clinic.
3. Antibody Test
Looks for antibodies to HIV in blood or oral fluid. Most rapid tests and the only currently approved HIV self-tests are antibody tests. In general, antibody tests that use blood from a vein can detect HIV sooner after infection than tests done with blood from a finger prick or oral fluid.
Where to Get Tested
Healthcare Provider
Ask your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider for an HIV test at your next visit.
Community Health Centers
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer HIV testing on a sliding fee scale.
HIV Testing Sites
Many local health departments, community organizations, and clinics offer free HIV testing.
Pharmacies
Some pharmacies offer HIV testing services. Call ahead to confirm availability.
At-Home Testing
FDA-approved HIV self-test kits are available at pharmacies and online. Results in 20 minutes.
Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood health centers offer confidential HIV testing and counseling.
Understanding Your Test Results
If Your Test Is Negative
A negative result means HIV was not detected in your sample. However, if you were recently exposed to HIV, you may need to test again after the window period.
If you test negative, you can take steps to stay negative, including using PrEP if you are at ongoing risk for HIV.
If Your Test Is Positive
A positive result means HIV was detected. A follow-up confirmatory test will be done to confirm the result. If confirmed positive, you will be linked to HIV care and treatment.
Starting HIV treatment as soon as possible helps you stay healthy and prevents transmitting HIV to others. With treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives.