We use SalivaDirect™ , a new testing method developed by the Yale School for Public Health for testing people suspected of SARS-CoV-2 infection. SalivaDirect uses a less invasive saliva sample and is simpler and more efficient to perform than other PCR tests. Learn more about SalivaDirect >
SalivaDirect is a qRT-PCR test—the most accurate type of test available. Results show that SalivaDirect is highly sensitive and accurate. It has 94.6% positive agreement and 100% negative agreement with the CDC test, which is comparable to results for other PCR tests.
Yes, SalivaDirect meets air travel requirements for most locations, except for a few that require a nasopharyngeal (NP) test.
Important: Be sure to check the website for the state or country of your destination for the latest information about travel requirements. We cannot be responsible for problems caused by not knowing your destination’s travel requirements.
Knowing your current COVID status is important to protect those around you, especially since a significant number of those infected show mild or no symptoms.
The testing location is outdoors, and we ask everyone to wear masks and keep social distance. You can stay in your car, and the saliva sample is contactless and non-invasive.
Go to the Primary site, where you can register, schedule, and pay for your test. When you register, we’ll text and/or email you with the time and location of your appointment.
Under FDA guidelines for this test, we cannot provide testing for children under 2.
You can pay by credit card or cash. You’ll be asked for a credit card at the end of registration. To pay by cash, select the "no card" option at checkout, and bring the full amount to your appointment.
We do not bill insurance companies at this time. However, some insurance companies will reimburse without preapproval for COVID screening and diagnosis. Check with your insurance company.
The test requires collecting a small amount of saliva through a straw into a tube. It’s safe, easy, and takes just a few minutes.
For children and others who have trouble producing a saliva sample, we will perform the CDC test using a nasal swab.
Yes, we offer drive-through testing, where the sample is collected through the window of your car. Or you can walk through if you prefer.
Follow the link in the confirmation email to the confirmation page. Scroll down for buttons to Reschedule Test and Cancel Test.
If you cancel or do not show up for your appointment, we will refund your payment minus a 20% cancellation fee one week after your appointment date. View the full Terms of Service.
The entire collection experience should take less than 15 minutes. You’ll receive results within 24 hours (48 hours max).
No, ID is not required.
Most results are available within 24 hours (48 hours max). You’ll receive a text message and/or email with a unique access code that you can use to access your results online.
You can access your results via most internet-connected devices (laptop, desktop computer, tablet, etc.), as long as you have access to the text message or email containing your unique access code. If you don’t have access to the internet, you can call (415) 324-6494 for help with your results.
A single negative test result does not mean you are free from infection. It simply means that you did not have COVID-19 at the time of testing, or the sample was collected too soon after you were infected.
False negatives are more likely than false positives, especially in the first days after exposure. The test is most accurate three to seven days after exposure. If you suspect your test result is inaccurate, you should get tested again.
If you’ve been exposed—even if you test negative—the safest way to protect those around you is to self-quarantine. Here’s more information from the CDC.
You’ll receive a call from our partnering medical provider, who can help you understand your result and what to do next. You should plan on isolating yourself from everyone (including those you live with) for 10 days to protect those around you. If you have a primary physician, you should let them know you’ve tested positive and discuss whether you need treatment.