As the pandemic continues, it’s increasingly important for Coloradans to get tested for COVID-19, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone who’s tested positive. If you need a test and are having trouble getting one, you can now get FREE at-home tests. You have two ways to get them.
Image: White House
U.S. Government Will Mail FREE Tests
Every home in the U.S. can order a FREE at-home COVID-19 test kit. The tests are completely FREE — no cost whatsoever. No credit card or health insurance necessary.
There is no shipping fee. Tests will be sent first-class mail via the U.S. Postal Service.
To get your FREE kits, go to COVIDTests.gov and simply enter your name and address. Tests are expected to ship within seven to 12 days of the order date, according to the White House.
Tests are limited to four (4) per household, regardless of the number of residents.
Photo By: EJ Hersom, U.S. Department of Defense
Colorado’s FREE COVID-19 Tests Program
In Colorado, there’s also another option to obtain complimentary COVID-19 testing kits. (Colorado is the first state in the nation to provide testing kits at no cost to its residents.)
The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) is providing FREE COVID-19 testing kits.
The program was specifically designed to provide parents, guardians and caregivers some peace of mind by making it easy to test their children and help keep schools open. However, if you are not a parent, guardian, or caregiver, you still may use the program.
The Rapid At-Home testing program is designed for regular screening. If you have symptoms or believe you have been exposed to COVID-19 and need immediate testing, visit one of the more than 100 FREE community testing sites across the state — click here.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1
Order tests at covidathometesting.colorado.gov. Each order includes two (2) tests. If you need additional kits, you will need place another order. (You will need to create an account.)
Step 2
Receive an order confirmation e-mail from CDPHE. Next, receive a second e-mail from Amazon with tracking information, once your order has shipped.
Step 3
When you’re ready to test, follow the instructions included in the test kit.
Step 4
Once you have your test results, follow these instructions on how to interpret and report your results.
For more information about the program, click here.