What Is An HIV Test?

Testing

What Is An HIV Test?

An HIV test looks for signs of HIV in your body. When you get tested for HIV, you will usually give a sample of blood, but there are other kinds of HIV tests that use urine or a swab of fluids from your mouth instead. Some tests take a few days for results, but rapid HIV tests can give results in about 20 minutes.

Where Can I Get an HIV Test?

Many places offer HIV tests. Here are some great ways to find an HIV testing location near you:

• Use the HIV Prevention and Services Locator on the right side of your screen. Just enter your ZIP code and you'll get a map that shows you nearby testing locations.
• Visit HIVtest.org. Enter your ZIP code and you'll get a list of HIV testing sites, including those that offer free HIV tests.
• Call 1-800 CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
• Text your ZIP code to KNOWIT (566948) and you'll receive a message in reply that lists the nearest testing locations.
• Contact your state or local health department.

You can also ask your healthcare provider for an HIV test. Many medical clinics, substance abuse programs, community health centers, and hospitals offer them too.

How Does An HIV Test Work?

Most HIV tests look for antibodies to the virus, not HIV itself. Antibodies to HIV appear in your blood, urine, and oral fluid as your immune system begins trying to fight the virus. Your body makes different antibodies to fight different threats—so the test looks specifically for HIV antibodies to see if you are infected with HIV.

Should I Be Tested?

HIV is spread through risky behaviors. If you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions, you should get an HIV test:

• Have you injected drugs or steroids or shared equipment (such as needles, syringes, works) with others?
• Have you had unprotected anal, oral, or vaginal sex with a partner whose HIV status is unknown?
• Have you exchanged sex for drugs or money?
• Have you been diagnosed with, or treated for, hepatitis, tuberculosis (TB), or a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?
• Have you had unprotected sex with someone who could answer "Yes" to any of the above questions?
• Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
• Have you been sexually assaulted?

If you continue to engage in high-risk behaviors, the CDC recommends that you get an HIV test at least once a year, and possibly more often. Talk with your healthcare provider about a testing schedule that is right for you.