About Test Yourself DC Express
Test Yourself DC Express is a free COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test that detects if you have a current COVID-19 infection in as little as 15 minutes. These tests have been authorized for Emergency Use by the US Food and Drug Administration. The COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test kit is intended for the collection of anterior nasal swabs from individuals aged 15 years and older (self-collected) or 2 years and older (collected with adult assistance).
How to Use Your COVID-19 Home Testing Kit
Once you have your test kit, carefully read the instructions prior to beginning, follow the steps to complete your test, and self-report your results. If you have questions regarding the test itself, please reference the manufacturer’s website. If you have questions regarding your test results, contact your primary care provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Test?
A. Rapid antigen self-tests can be taken at home and provide results within 15-30 minutes. Antigen tests detect certain proteins in the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.
Q. When should the Antigen Self-Test test be used?
A. COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests are intended for the detection of the virus from individuals within 7-days of symptom onset and individuals with possible exposure to COVID-19. If individuals are asymptomatic and not fully vaccinated, and have close contact with someone with known or suspected COVID-19, testing should occur immediately upon identification of close contact exposure. If the test is negative, those individuals should test again 5-7 days after the last known exposure, or immediately if symptoms develop.
Q. What is the cost of the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Test?
A. They are provided by DC Health for FREE with no out-of-pocket costs.
Q. Do I need to return this test to receive my results?
A. No. This is a rapid test that will produce results for the user 15 minutes after all steps have been completed. You should report your results to the DC Health Self-Test reporting portal at
coronavirus.dc.gov/overthecounter.
Q: Where can I find test kit instructions?
A. Instructions are provided for you within the test kit box. You can also find the instructions online at
iHealth. Carefully read through the instructions before beginning, follow the steps to complete your test, and report your results through the
Self-Test Reporting portal.
Q.How long will it take to get my test results?
A. Tests will produce results 15-30 minutes after all steps have been completed.
Q. What do I do with my results?
Q. Is there an age limitation? Can this test be used for children?
A. COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests are intended for use by individuals 15 years and older (self-collected) or 2 years and older (collected with adult assistance).
Q. Where can I find more information about COVID-19 testing options in the District?
