You can get free COVID-19 test kits from several sources depending on your location and eligibility:
- In the UK, free rapid lateral flow tests are available at pharmacies for people aged 12 and over who are at highest risk of serious illness from COVID-19. You do not need an appointment or to order in advance, but you must meet eligibility criteria such as having certain medical conditions. If you are not eligible, you need to purchase tests yourself
- In the US, the federal government used to offer free at-home COVID-19 test kits via COVIDTests.gov, allowing up to four kits per household with free shipping. However, this program has been suspended as of early 2025, so free orders are no longer accepted
- Some pharmacies and retailers in the US may offer no-cost COVID-19 tests if you have insurance coverage, such as Walgreens, where you can order tests online and pick up in store
- For uninsured people who are symptomatic or exposed, the ICATT program in the US provides no-cost COVID-19 testing at designated sites. You can find these sites using the CDC COVID-19 Testing Locator
- In Berlin, Germany, residents can get free rapid COVID-19 tests daily at various testing centers and some pharmacies, often without needing an appointment. PCR tests are also free if you test positive on a rapid test
In summary, to get free COVID-19 test kits:
- Check local pharmacies if you are eligible (UK).
- Use government or public health programs in your country (may vary by current availability).
- For the US, free at-home test ordering via COVIDTests.gov is currently suspended, but insurance-covered tests and testing sites for uninsured individuals are options.
- In Berlin, free rapid tests are widely available at testing centers and pharmacies.
Always verify current availability and eligibility on official health websites or local health authorities.
