Diagnostic Test
Fully vaccinated people no longer need to get tested for COVID-19 unless they have symptoms of COVID-19 or testing is required for work, school, or a specific activity.
If you are not vaccinated and your first COVID-19 diagnostic test is negative, you should get tested again if you:
In addition, you should get tested once a month or as recommended by your health care provider if you are:
Diagnostic Test Types
Either one can be used to determine if you have COVID-19. However, a negative result from a rapid test must subsequently be confirmed by the Regular PCR Swab result.
Antibody Test
You should get an antibody test if you:
These tests can't be used to determine whether you are currently infected with COVID-19. If you are currently sick, you should get a diagnostic test instead.
Walk-in Sites
City-Run Sites
There are walk-in diagnostic testing sites in all boroughs that don’t require an appointment unless otherwise noted.
You can also find free testing sites near you by texting COVID TEST to 855-48. Text messaging or data rates may apply.
Mobile and micro sites offer free diagnostic tests on certain dates and locations. No appointments are required. Availability is subject to change due to inclement weather.
Brick-and-mortar sites offer walk-in antibody testing in all boroughs and are labeled as such. They don't require an appointment unless otherwise noted.
You can also find free testing sites near you by texting COVID TEST to 855-48. Text messaging or data rates may apply.
Rapid Self-Test Kits
Pick Up Self-Test Kits at City Sites
You can pick up free at-home rapid testing kits at various sites throughout the city. One kit is recommended per person.
The list of locations and hours is available online.
NYC COVID Safe App
Many New York City employers, businesses, and venues require verification of immunization or weekly proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test for their employees and customers.
You can use the NYC COVID Safe App to store and present the necessary documentation to verify that you have met these requirements. The documentation you upload into this app is not shared with anyone and stays on your phone only.
Download the NYC COVID Safe App on:
Excelsior Pass
New York State’s Excelsior Pass provides secure, digital proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative test results. The Pass is only accepted in New York State.
Businesses and entertainment venues can scan and validate the pass to ensure you meet any COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry. When using the pass, you’ll be asked to show a photo ID that shows your name and birth date to verify identity.
To learn more, about the pass, go to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Vaccination Record page.
