How long an HIV test takes depends on the type of test you use. Rapid HIV tests can usually be performed within minutes, with the result available shortly afterwards. Always follow the exact reading time in the Instructions for Use supplied with your test.
At-home HIV self-tests allow you to collect the sample and perform the test yourself in a private setting. The exact result time differs between products. For example, some rapid self-tests are read after around 15–20 minutes.
Rapid HIV tests are also available at some healthcare providers, clinics and community testing services, where you may be able to wait for the result. If a blood sample is sent to a laboratory, it can take several days before the result is available.
How soon after a possible exposure a test can reliably detect HIV is a different question. This is called the window period and it depends on the type of HIV test used.
You can view our available HIV tests here and follow the instructions supplied with the specific test for its exact testing and result times.
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