The federal government currently offers free COVID-19 test kits for households in the U.S. through the website COVIDTests.gov, where anyone can order up to four free test kits per household with free shipping. You only need to provide a name and shipping address; no financial information is required. This program started up again in September 2024. Other ways to get free COVID-19 tests may include:
- Free rapid tests available through local pharmacies or health departments, often for those at higher risk or meeting eligibility criteria.
- Testing locations where free in-person COVID-19 tests may be conducted.
- Certain groups like Medicare beneficiaries may get free COVID-19 lab tests ordered by a healthcare provider.
However, as of March 2025, the federal government no longer offers free COVID tests through the mail outside this program, so checking local resources or eligibility for free pharmacy tests is recommended. In some countries like the UK or Germany, free tests from pharmacies or testing centers could be available under specific conditions or eligibility. Avoid scams by only ordering tests from official government sites like COVIDTests.gov in the U.S. and not sharing financial or social security information. Summary for the U.S.:
- Visit COVIDTests.gov to order up to 4 free tests per household.
- Check local pharmacies or health departments for free test availability.
- Medicare covers free lab tests ordered by doctors but not OTC home tests anymore.
This guidance is current as of late 2025.
