Easily report your positive at-home test results
People who purchase over-the-counter test kits and receive a positive result should call the state COVID-19 hotline, 1-800-525-0127 then press # (press 7 for Spanish), as soon as they receive results. The hotline is available Monday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Tuesday to Sunday (and observed holidays) 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Language assistance is available.
Why Get Tested
Testing saves lives. Testing allows people to take precautions, like quarantining, in a timely manner to stop the virus from spreading; infected people without symptoms can still spread the virus. Testing also helps public health officials identify and respond to outbreaks, and to track new variants of the virus. Testing is an important component in helping resume normal activities.
Researchers from the University of Washington and the Department of Health (DOH) found that testing for COVID-19 and tracking through WA Notify likely prevented about 6,000 cases from December 2020 to March 2021.
When to Get Tested
- Test when you feel sick. COVID-19 has a wide range of symptoms, so if you’re not feeling well, it’s best to get tested as soon as possible.
- Test when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Get tested immediately if you’re showing symptoms. If you’re not showing symptoms, wait five days after the exposure and then test.
- Businesses and event spaces in Washington may have testing and/or vaccination requirements before entering an establishment or event. Call ahead or check their website before you visit.
- You may need to test before and/or after traveling. Check the CDC’s latest travel guidance.
- When you’re going to gather with a group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.
Where to Get Tested
The WA State Department of Health website maintains a directory of testing sites available in each county, with operating hours and requirements. For additional information on testing sites, call 2-1-1. Over the counter test kits are also available for ordering and in pharmacies for convenient, at-home testing.
Types of Tests
The current tests available include rapid antigen tests, molecular tests (both lab-based and point of care), and some home self-tests. Supply of any particular test varies according to demand and manufacturer capacity.
Cost
- Free at-home tests are available through the federal government, order your free test kit at COVIDtests.gov
- Insurance providers will now reimburse families for up to eight tests per month. Learn more about insurance reimbursement.
- There are no out of pocket cost for tests performed at county or state-supported test sites. Many tests, particularly for people experiencing symptoms, can be billed to insurance or subsidized by the Department of Health.
- You can also purchase an at-home test at local or online retailers and pharmacies. No insurance or prescription is required.
How To Take An At-Home Test
- It’s important to follow the instructions inside the kit of rapid at-home tests for the most accurate results. Several brands also offer video instructions. For more best practices, check out the CDC’s tips for at-home testing.
- False negatives can occur with rapid tests. Some testing kits may include two tests (you should follow the instructions on the box for when to test).
- For more on how testing works, visit our testing frequently asked questions page.
When to Quarantine or Isolate
You may need to quarantine or isolate prior to taking your test and after receiving your results. This will depend on your vaccination status and whether you’re showing symptoms. The latest CDC guidance breaks this down by scenario. You can also follow our guide for people who are symptomatic and/or exposed to COVID-19.
Follow-Up
Stay home as much as possible if you have symptoms. If you test positive for COVID-19, the good news is there are steps you can take to help keep yourself and others safe. Further information can be found here: What to do if you test positive.