Who can get tested?
Anyone can get tested at a Health Department testing site. This includes people of all ages who work in Vermont, are visitors to Vermont or are international travelers. Anyone under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian or bring a signed parental consent form.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Making an appointment will help guarantee you a test, but you can walk in to a clinic to pick up a take-home test or be tested on site. Find a testing location.
What kind of test is it?
The Health Department offers PCR, antigen and LAMP tests. These tests will tell you if you have a current infection. They are not serology/antibody tests, which means they will not tell you if you were infected in the past.
I need to have documentation of my test result; what type should I get?
In order to get documentation of a medically observed test, you will need a PCR test. The results and documentation will be available within three business days.
Can I get a take-home test kit if I walk in to a testing site?
Yes, if the site offers antigen and LAMP tests you can walk in and choose one of those.
If my family has appointments for take-home test kits, can one person pick them up?
Yes. One family member can go pick up the test kits for other family members who have appointments. The person who picks them up does not need to have an appointment. For example, if three family members have appointments, one family member can go pick up the test kits for everyone who is registered.
Can I pick up my test at a different time than my appointment is scheduled for?
Please come as close to your appointment time as possible, since this helps the site manage the numbers of people and provide people’s appointments on time. If you need to come at a different time, you can still pick up your test.
If I am vaccinated, will I test positive for COVID-19?
None of the COVID-19 vaccines currently available will cause you to test positive on a PCR, LAMP or antigen test.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No. You do not need a referral from a doctor to be tested at a Health Department testing site.
Do I need insurance?
No. You may be asked to provide health insurance information when you make an appointment or when you go to the site, but you do not have to have health insurance in order to get tested.
Is the test free?
Yes. It is free to get tested at a Health Department testing site.
What is the test like? How is a sample collected?
PCR tests are self-administered at the test site, which means that you use a short, dry swab to collect a sample from just inside your nose. Antigen and LAMP tests are done a home. Follow instructions that come with the kit.
Do I get out of my car for the testing?
Some sites allow you to drive through, but most will require you to get out of your car to enter the space where the specimen will be collected. You will get instructions to follow when you arrive at the site. You may have to wait outside, so dress for the weather.
Do I need to bring identification with me?
We don’t require identification. We will ask you to verify your contact information.
Will I be screened for symptoms?
Yes. You will be asked if you have any current symptoms of COVID-19 at the testing site. You will still be able to get tested.
Can I get transportation to the test site?
Yes. Schedule your appointment, and then call 833-387-7200 at least two days before the appointment.
Can I get an ASL interpreter to assist me at the testing site?
Yes. An ASL interpreter can be arranged at Health Department testing sites. Usually, the interpreter will work with you remotely, and you'll use a computer screen available at the test site. To request an interpreter, ask one of the public health workers at the test site.
Can I get an interpreter for a foreign language to assist me at the testing site?
Yes. An interpreter can be arranged at Health Department testing sites. Usually, the interpreter will work with you remotely by phone. To request an interpreter, ask one of the public health workers at the test site. There are some testing sites where foreign language interpreters are available onsite.
When and how will I get my results?
Find out about getting your test results.
Can I be tested at a Health Department testing site more than once?
Yes. You may come to a Health Department testing site to get tested more than once.
How can I change or cancel my appointment?
The confirmation email that was sent to you has information about how to cancel or change your appointment. You can also call 802-863-7240 (select option 9, then select option 3) if you need help.
