COVID-19 FREE Testing

Testing remains a key tool to keeping Missourians safe and open for activity. Testing is not only for those who are symptomatic, but important for periodic surveillance especially when interacting with vulnerable populations and crowds. Many camps, events, and travel now require evidence of a test result before participation.

A simple test can provide peace of mind. Missouri provides several options for obtaining a free COVID-19 PCR test without any symptom criteria. The opportunities for testing include:

• Testing Sites (sponsored by MO DHSS)
• Self Collection Test Shipped to Home
• Pharmacies providing free testing sponsored by U.S. Health and Human Services

The following are drive-thru testing events. There is no pre-registration or appointment needed to receive a test. Having a state issued identification card available at the testing site will speed up the process immensely; however, no identification documents are required. As long as you arrive before the event closes, you will be guaranteed to receive a test. Results will be available as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours from the event.

You will be notified of your result via phone call or text.  If your results are positive you will be notified via a phone call. If you are required to obtain a copy of your test result, let the specialist know at collection who will give you instructions for receiving a paper copy. If you need to obtain a copy afterwards, call or text Next Gen Diagnostics at 417-362-NEXT (6398) or by requesting one at results@nextgendiagnosticservices.com. A text message to Next Gen Diagnostics will result in a faster response.

This option allows for ordering a kit to be shipped to home. After self-collection by easy-to-follow instructions, the kit is returned to a laboratory free of charge via FedEx. You must provide an email address in order to receive the test result. Once ordered, the kit arrives in 2 days. The kit is good for 6 months. Once the sample has been collected, it must be packaged in the prepaid FedEx shipping envelope (according to directions) and returned to a FedEx collection site within 24 hours.

  Order your test kit here

Resources to learn more about the self-collection test:

• English overview video (shorter)
• English detailed instructions (longer)
• Spanish overview video (shorter)
• Spanish detailed instructions (longer)
• Visit fedex.com/dropbox to check on nearest dropbox and pickup times
• How to Schedule a Fed-Ex Pick-up if dropbox not available near you

Additional free testing sites around Missouri are available. You can find those sites here.