The time has come. You think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 — or maybe you suspect those may not be allergy symptoms, and you need to know for sure. Fortunately, there are dozens of sites in Detroit and the surrounding suburbs where you can get a test.

If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, Detroit health officials encourage you to get a test 5-7 days after exposure if you don’t have symptoms. If you do have symptoms, you can get tested immediately.

To improve your chances of getting an accurate test, opt for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test (common in Detroit) rather than rapid tests.

You can get tested for free at a range of locations across Metro Detroit, and many fee-based locations do not require insurance. Some places only offer tests to people with symptoms.

You’ll probably wait 2-3 days for results, but since demand is high right now, it may be 4-5 days. 

Where to go

Residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties can get tested free of charge at the Joseph Walker Williams Community Center site located at 8431 Rosa Parks Blvd. in Detroit. They’re open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Two types of diagnostic tests are available at the site, the rapid molecular test, with results available within 15 minutes, and the PCR test, which is sent to a lab for results within 48 hours. Call (313) 230-0505 to make a next-day appointment. If you’re in need of transportation, Detroiters can get a $2 ride to the Joseph Walker Williams Community Center — ask when you call.

If you’re a Detroit school district family or employee, you can get free testing here.

Not near Detroit’s community testing site? Peruse our map of other testing sites around Metro Detroit, or use the state’s app to search for sites across Michigan.

Data source: Michigan Department of Health & Human Services