Where you can get a TB test

You can get a tuberculosis test at your primary care doctor's office, an urgent care clinic, a public health department, or a hospital. If you don't have a regular doctor, your local health department is the fastest route—they test for TB as part of their core work and often don't require an appointment. Community health centers (federally may have access to health centers, or FQHCs) also offer TB testing and can see you without insurance or a referral.

Some workplaces, schools, and nursing homes arrange TB testing on-site as part of screening requirements. If you're being tested because of a workplace or school mandate, ask your employer or institution where they've contracted testing—they may handle scheduling for you. If you're homeless or living in a shelter, many shelters have partnerships with local health departments and can direct you to testing.

Key Takeaways

  • Your local health department offers TB testing without requiring an appointment, insurance, or a referral, and can tell you results in one to three weeks.
  • A primary care doctor, urgent care clinic, or community health center can test you, though you may need to schedule in advance.
  • The skin test (Mantoux test) takes five minutes but requires a return visit 48 to 72 hours later to read the result.
  • Blood tests for TB (IGRA tests) give results in one to two weeks and don't require a second visit.
  • If you have symptoms like a persistent cough, fever, or night sweats, tell the clinic when you call so they can prioritize you and take precautions.

What to bring to your TB test appointment

Bring a photo ID and proof of address if you have it. If you have insurance, bring your card, but lack of insurance will not prevent you from being tested at a health department or community health center. If you're being tested because of a workplace or school requirement, bring the letter or form that explains why you need testing—the clinic may need to document this.

If you've had a TB test before, tell the clinic. Previous TB tests can affect how your current result is read, and some clinics need to know your testing history before they schedule you. If you've received the BCG vaccine (common outside the United States), mention that as well, since it can change how a skin test result is interpreted.

The skin test versus blood test

The skin test (Mantoux test) involves an injection of a small amount of fluid under the skin on your forearm. The injection itself takes seconds and causes minimal discomfort. You return 48 to 72 hours later, and a nurse measures any swelling at the injection site. The whole process takes about two weeks from start to finish, including the return visit.

The blood test (IGRA test) is a single visit. A technician draws blood, and results come back in one to two weeks. Blood tests are faster because they don't require a second appointment, and they're more accurate for people who've received the BCG vaccine. Some clinics offer only one type of test, so ask when you call which one they use.

How long results take and what happens next

Skin test results are available immediately after your second visit—the nurse will tell you the result before you leave. Blood test results typically come back within one to two weeks; the clinic will call you or ask you to check a patient portal. Health departments usually mail results or call within two to three weeks.

A negative result means TB infection was not detected. If you had a skin test and the result is negative, you're done. If you had a blood test and it's negative, you're also done. A positive result means TB infection is present, but it does not mean you have active TB disease. If your result is positive, the clinic will order a chest X-ray to determine whether you have active disease or latent infection. That X-ray typically happens within one to two weeks.

Testing at your workplace or school

Many employers, schools, and healthcare facilities require TB testing as a condition of employment or enrollment. If your workplace or school is arranging testing, they usually contract with a clinic or mobile testing service to come on-site. You'll receive a notice with the date, time, and location. Attendance is typically mandatory, and you may need to bring ID.

After testing, results go to your employer or school's occupational health department, not directly to you. Ask your HR or health office how long results take and how you'll be notified. If your result is positive, the occupational health department will contact you separately to discuss next steps, which may include a chest X-ray or a referral to a TB specialist.

Testing if you have symptoms

If you have a cough lasting more than three weeks, fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, tell the clinic when you call. These are symptoms of active TB disease, and the clinic may prioritize your appointment or take extra precautions during testing. You may be tested in a separate room to prevent spread to other patients.

If you have symptoms, the clinic will likely order a chest X-ray at the same time as your TB test, rather than waiting for the TB test result. This speeds up diagnosis. Do not delay calling because you're worried about the cost—health departments and community health centers offer testing regardless of ability to pay.

Finding your local health department

Search online for "[your city or county] health department tuberculosis testing" or "[your state] TB program." Most health departments list testing locations, hours, and whether appointments are needed on their website. You can also call 211 (a free helpline) and say "I need a TB test" and they will give you the nearest location.

If you live in a rural area without a local health department office, ask your primary care doctor or call your state's TB control program directly. Many states have a central TB hotline that can direct you to the nearest testing site. If you're uninsured or underinsured, mention that when you call—health departments prioritize uninsured patients and have funding specifically for their care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral from my doctor to get a TB test?

No. Health departments and community health centers test for TB without a referral. If you want to be tested by your primary care doctor, you don't need a referral either—call and ask to schedule a TB test. Some clinics may ask why you need testing, but that's to document the reason, not to deny you.

How much does a TB test cost?

Health departments offer testing for free or on a sliding fee scale based on income. Community health centers charge on a sliding scale. If you have insurance, your plan typically covers TB testing with no out-of-pocket cost. Call ahead and ask about cost if you're uninsured or underinsured.

Can I get a TB test the same day I call?

Health departments often have same-day or next-day appointments, especially if you have symptoms. Urgent care clinics may also test you the same day. Primary care doctors usually require scheduling in advance. Call the location you're interested in and ask about availability.

What if I'm allergic to the skin test injection?

Tell the clinic about your allergy when you schedule. They can use a blood test (IGRA) instead, which doesn't involve an injection. Blood tests are equally reliable and don't require a second visit.

Do I need to fast or prepare in any way before a TB test?

No. For a skin test, wear loose clothing on your arm so the nurse can access your forearm easily. For a blood test, you don't need to fast. Both tests can be done anytime during the day without special preparation.