Coronavirus: Testing
Ask for a test to check if you have coronavirus
If you have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), you can ask for a test to check if you have the virus. This is called an antigen test.
There is another type of test (antibody test) that checks if you've already had the virus. This test is not widely available yet. You can find out about antibody testing on GOV.UK.
If you need medical advice about your symptoms:
- England: NHS 111 online coronavirus service
- Scotland: NHS inform
- Wales: NHS Direct Wales
- Northern Ireland: get advice from a GP or GP out-of-hours service
Who can ask for a test?
You can ask for a test:
- for yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)
- for someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms
This service is for people in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
In England and Wales, you can ask for a test for a child who lives with you, whatever their age. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, you can only get a test for your child if they are aged 5 or over.
If you're asking for a test for someone else, and the person is aged 13 or over, check they're happy for you to ask for a test for them.
Please help the NHS by only asking for tests for people who have coronavirus symptoms now.
When to ask for a test
You need to get the test done in the first 5 days of having symptoms.
Important
Do not wait. Ask for the test as soon as you have symptoms.
What the test involves
The test usually involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud.
You can do the swab yourself (if you are aged 12 or over) or someone can do it for you. Children aged 11 or under cannot do the swab themselves. Their parent or guardian will have to swab test them.
Will I get a test?
There is very high demand for tests at the moment.
People in hospital and essential workers, including NHS and social care staff, are getting priority.
Even if you are successful in requesting a test, we cannot guarantee you will get one. It depends on how many tests are available each day in different parts of the country.
How do I ask for a test?
You can ask for a test online.
We'll ask you:
- how you want to get the test – you may be able to choose between driving to a regional testing site or getting a home test kit
- for details such as your name, mobile phone number and address
Apply for a coronavirus test on GOV.UK if you:
- are an essential worker, including NHS or social care staff
- are asking for tests for the residents and staff of your care home
- have a verification code from your employer