🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 5 (from laksa112)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa005.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/","crawl_time":1775506114,"first_indexed_time":1647736507,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,milelion!\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/ s443","src_root_hash":"8004117170973369205","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"USA VTL: My experience with pre-departure COVID-19 testing - The MileLion","meta_descriptions":["Healthcare costs in the USA are frightening, but COVID-19 testing can be done for free if you know where to look."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Healthcare costs in the USA are frightening, but COVID-19 testing can be done for free if you know where to look.\nIt’s no secret that healthcare costs in the USA can be frightening, with a simple visit to the doctor easily setting you back a couple hundred dollars.\nTherefore, I was expecting to pay through the nose (in more ways than one) for a COVID test, and indeed,\nairport locations\nare charging hefty rates for pre-departure testing (PDT).\nFor example, if you wanted to take a\nrapid antigen test at LAX,\nyou’d pay US$80.\nAt JFK\n, it’s US$179. At least antigen tests are available over there;\nSFO\nonly offers PCR tests, and a 60-minute option would cost you US$250!\n⚠️ Note:\nFrom 23 March 2022, free COVID testing will be discontinued due to a cut in funding. The locations mentioned in this article will begin charging for tests from this date.\nBut there’s a better solution: the free tests offered at pharmacies and other community locations. These are available to everyone,\neven non-US residents.\nI had concerns about whether the results certificate would be valid for travel, but everything went without a hitch.\nOverview: Pre-departure testing in USA\nI did a total of three COVID tests in the USA, at three different providers:\nCurative\nCVS\nTotal Testing Solutions (TTS)\nI’ll talk about each one in a bit, but first, a few general points to note:\nHaving a car will be a big convenience, as many testing locations use drive-thru testing. However, it’s not essential\nMost providers require you to book an appointment, although one place I visited (Curative) allowed on-the-spot bookings\nThe providers I visited weren’t strict about timings at all;  I showed up 2-3 hours ahead of schedule and they accommodated me\nRegistration requires a ten-digit US phone number, so it really helps if you have a local SIM card\nDon’t talk about “ARTs” in the US; no one will know what you’re talking about. Instead, say “rapid test”\n❓ What information must your PDT have?\nAs per the ICA, your PDT result must not be a handwritten document, and\nfulfil the following:\nIs in English (or accompanied with an English translation);\nContains the traveller’s name, and Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore); and\nReflects the date and result of the COVID-19 test\nI want to draw particular attention to (2), because both\nDate of Birth\nand\nPassport number\nare acceptable personal identifiers. Therefore it doesn’t matter if your document only has one and not the other. \nI did my testing mostly around the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area, but CVS and Curative have locations all over the US, and the process will be the same regardless. \nCVS\nKey Information\nTests Offered\nPCR\/Antigen\nAppointment Required?\nYes\nBooking Link\nTime to Results\n25 hours (PCR)\nResults Valid for Travel?\nYes\nRegistration\nVisit the booking link\nand enter your ZIP code to find the closest locations. You’ll be asked the following yes\/no questions:\nAre you seeking a COVID-19 test because of high transmission rates and difficulty maintaining recommended social distancing?\nIn the last 14 days, have you had contact with someone who has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19?\nHave you been asked or referred to get tested by a health care provider?\nHave you experienced any symptoms in the last 14 days?\nIf you answer “no” to all, you’ll be told you’re not eligible for no-cost testing at a CVS location, and referred elsewhere instead. However, most of us could honestly answer “yes” to (1); I’d just attended a week of tennis games in a crowded stadium, after all.\nNext, select a testing location and appointment slot that works with you. Remember that you can search for either PCRs or rapid-result tests (aka ARTs) by checking the relevant box. \nThe next step is to enter your personal info. Most of it is self-explanatory, except the health insurance question. For this, select “I’m uninsured”, and leave the rest blank (your travel insurance does not count as health insurance). Leave the social security number field blank.\nThe other piece of advice I’d give is to select “prefer not to answer” to the question about whether you’re received a COVID-19 vaccine. If you select “yes”, you’ll need to enter information about all the dates and brands of your doses. It’s a lot of extra clicks, and not necessary. \nTaking the test\nCVS testing\nMost if not all CVS tests will be done at the drive-through pharmacy. If you don’t have a car, go inside the pharmacy and ask for assistance. \nDrive-thru pharmacy\nWhen you pull up to the window, you’ll be asked for your confirmation code. Surprisingly, I wasn’t asked for ID, but I can’t guarantee it’ll be the case for you as well. The staff will confirm your personal details, then pass you a specimen bag to collect your sample. That’s right- whether you choose a PCR or rapid test, you’ll be the one doing the swabbing. \nSample collection bag\nNow, I’m well aware the ICA’s website says that swabs must be administered by a trained professional, but this falls into the grey area of supervised self-swabs. I wouldn’t consider it to be an issue at all, especially when tele-supervised ARTs by CLEA have been successfully used by travellers\nentering Singapore from Malaysia. \nYou’ll deposit your sample in a drop-off box, and that’s it.\nResults\nThe results of my CVS PCR test took just over 25 hours to come back. I received a link via SMS which allowed me to view the result on my phone, and also download a PDF copy.\nCVS tests do not feature one’s ID number, but as mentioned earlier, the date of birth is an acceptable substitute.\nTotal Testing Solutions (TTS)\nKey Information\nTests Offered\nPCR\/Antigen\nAppointment Required?\nYes\nBooking Link\nTime to Results\n18 minutes (ART)\nResults Valid for Travel?\nYes\nRegistration\nTTS has the simplest booking process of all three providers. \nVisit the booking link\nand select a test location and time slot. Under “reason”, select either a PCR or rapid antigen test. Leave the “insurance plan” and “insurance member ID” fields blank.\nClick book appointment, and that’s it. \nTaking the test\nTTS swabbing station\nThe TTS location I visited was spartan, to say the least. It was nothing more than a tent set up in the carpark of an office park, but on the plus side, there were no queues either. We arrived more than two hours before our selected time slot, but the staff didn’t care.\nDuring registration, be sure to provide your passport and state that you need the test for travel. Make things easy by telling them exactly what to enter as your first and last name; Americans tend to have a hard time with hanyu pinyin names.\nYou may also be asked about health insurance, to which you can just tell them you’re from overseas. \nProfessional swabbing\nUnlike the other providers I visited, swabbing at TTS was professionally-administered for both PCR and antigen tests. \nResults\nI was told that the results for my antigen test could take up to four hours to arrive, but I got mine just 18 minutes later. Two emails were sent; the first was a link to a results page with my name, birth date, test date and result date. \nThis alone would be sufficient for travel, but I also received a separate PDF with my passport number included and a digital signature.  \nCurative\nKey Information\nTest Type\nPCR\/Antigen\nAppointment required?\nYes\nBooking Link\nTime to Results\n42 hours (PCR)\nResults Valid for Travel?\nYes\nRegistration\nVisit the booking link\nand enter your ZIP code to find nearby locations. \nOnce you’ve chosen a location and time slot, you’ll be asked for some personal information, whether you have health insurance (select “no”), and to upload the front and back of your ID (you don’t need to upload anything if you don’t want to). \nTaking the test\nCurative\nMy Curative test took place in the car park of a high school, which was empty due to spring break.\nCurative test booth\nAt the booth, the attendant asked for our confirmation code and a photo ID, after which he issued us our test packets.\nSample collection bag\nCollection instructions\nSamples are self-collected, and interestingly enough, Curative also seems to accept registrations on the spot (though the QR code was missing). \nOn-the-spot appointments\nResults\nCurative results took the longest to come back, but that could just be my bad luck. I did my swab at 12.40 p.m on 17 March, but the specimen only arrived in the lab at 11.30 p.m on 18 March. \nIt means my turnaround time was about\n42 hours, \nthough your experience could very well differ if your sample is collected soon after it’s taken. \nThe results certificate had all the information required for travel. \nConclusion\nPre-departure COVID-19 testing in the USA doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, so long as you know where to get it done. Community testing centres are plentiful, and bookings can be done entirely online. All you really need is a local phone number, and to take a little time off your trip to get it done. \nI suppose if you really were in a rush, you could also take an\ntele-supervised ART from Raffles Medical at S$30. \nAny other testing centres you’d recommend for the US?\nAaron Wong\nAaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful.","attrs_markdown":"![](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tr?id=1217356008832819&ev=PageView&noscript=1)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/themilelion\/ \"Facebook\")     [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/themilelion\/ \"Instagram\")\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/milelion.com\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/milelion.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/milelion.com\/about-us\/)\n- [Credit Cards](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/)\n  - [Reward types, points & expiry](https:\/\/milelion.com\/credit-cards\/credit-card-overview\/)\n  - [What card do I use for…](https:\/\/milelion.com\/credit-cards\/guide\/)\n  - [Current Credit Card Sign Up Bonuses](https:\/\/milelion.com\/credit-cards\/current-credit-card-sign-up-bonuses\/)\n  - [Credit Card Lounge Benefits](https:\/\/milelion.com\/credit-cards\/credit-card-lounge-benefits\/)\n  - [Credit Card Airport Limo Benefits](https:\/\/milelion.com\/credit-cards\/credit-card-limo-benefits-compared\/)\n  - 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[Singapore Airlines Wi-Fi guide](https:\/\/milelion.com\/airlines\/singapore-airlines-wi-fi-guide\/)\n  - [The Milelion’s KrisFlyer Guide](https:\/\/milelion.com\/airlines\/the-milelions-krisflyer-guide\/)\n  - [What is the value of a mile?](https:\/\/milelion.com\/airlines\/what-is-the-value-of-a-mile\/)\n- [Hotels](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/)\n  - [Best Rate Guarantees (BRGs) for beginners](https:\/\/milelion.com\/hotels\/best-rate-guarantees-brgs-for-beginners\/)\n  - [Singapore Staycation Guide](https:\/\/milelion.com\/hotels\/singapore-staycation-guide\/)\n- [Trip Reports](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/)\n  - [Trip Report Index](https:\/\/milelion.com\/trip-reports\/trip-report-index\/)\n- [VTF Travel](https:\/\/milelion.com\/vtf-travel-resources\/)\n\n[Search](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/milelion.com\/)[General Travel](https:\/\/milelion.com\/category\/general-travel\/ \"View all posts in General Travel\")\n\n[General Travel](https:\/\/milelion.com\/category\/general-travel\/)[VTL](https:\/\/milelion.com\/category\/vtl\/)\n\n# USA VTL: My experience with pre-departure COVID-19 testing\n\n[![Aaron Wong](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=96&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/ \"Aaron Wong\")\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\nMar 20, 2022\n\n[12](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comments)\n\n#### Healthcare costs in the USA are frightening, but COVID-19 testing can be done for free if you know where to look.\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmilelion.com%2F2022%2F03%2F20%2Fusa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing%2F \"Facebook\")\n\n[X](https:\/\/x.com\/intent\/post?text=USA+VTL%3A+My+experience+with+pre-departure+COVID-19+testing&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmilelion.com%2F2022%2F03%2F20%2Fusa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing%2F&via=The+MileLion \"X\")\n\n[Telegram](https:\/\/telegram.me\/share\/url?url=https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/&text=USA+VTL%3A+My+experience+with+pre-departure+COVID-19+testing \"Telegram\")\n\n[WhatsApp](https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?text=USA+VTL%3A+My+experience+with+pre-departure+COVID-19+testing%20%0A%0A%20https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/ \"WhatsApp\")\n\nIt’s no secret that healthcare costs in the USA can be frightening, with a simple visit to the doctor easily setting you back a couple hundred dollars.\n\nTherefore, I was expecting to pay through the nose (in more ways than one) for a COVID test, and indeed, [airport locations](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2021\/12\/29\/vtl-which-airports-offer-pre-departure-antigen-rapid-testing-arts\/) are charging hefty rates for pre-departure testing (PDT).\n\nFor example, if you wanted to take a [rapid antigen test at LAX,](https:\/\/www.flylax.com\/travelsafely#CovidTest) you’d pay US\\$80. [At JFK](https:\/\/adamshealthservices.com\/#faq), it’s US\\$179. At least antigen tests are available over there; [SFO](https:\/\/www.flysfo.com\/travel-well\/covid-19-testing) only offers PCR tests, and a 60-minute option would cost you US\\$250\\!\n\n|   |\n|---|\n| **⚠️ Note:** From 23 March 2022, free COVID testing will be discontinued due to a cut in funding. The locations mentioned in this article will begin charging for tests from this date. |\n\nBut there’s a better solution: the free tests offered at pharmacies and other community locations. These are available to everyone, **even non-US residents.** I had concerns about whether the results certificate would be valid for travel, but everything went without a hitch.\n\n|   |\n|---|\n| **🎾 Tennis Paradise** |\n| [Tennis Paradise: Trip Planning](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/08\/tennis-paradise-usa-vtl-trip-planning\/) [ANA Suite Lounge NRT](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/22\/review-ana-suite-lounge-tokyo-narita-airport\/) [United Airlines Polaris Lounge SFO](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/04\/05\/review-united-polaris-lounge-san-francisco\/) [USA Pre-Departure Testing: Bay Area](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/) [VTL Simplified Post-Arrival Process](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/21\/my-experience-with-the-simplified-vtl-arrivals-process-in-singapore\/) |\n## Overview: Pre-departure testing in USA\nI did a total of three COVID tests in the USA, at three different providers:\n\n- Curative\n- CVS\n- Total Testing Solutions (TTS)\n\nI’ll talk about each one in a bit, but first, a few general points to note:\n\n- Having a car will be a big convenience, as many testing locations use drive-thru testing. However, it’s not essential\n- Most providers require you to book an appointment, although one place I visited (Curative) allowed on-the-spot bookings\n- The providers I visited weren’t strict about timings at all; I showed up 2-3 hours ahead of schedule and they accommodated me\n- Registration requires a ten-digit US phone number, so it really helps if you have a local SIM card\n- Don’t talk about “ARTs” in the US; no one will know what you’re talking about. Instead, say “rapid test”\n\n|   |\n|---|\n| **❓ What information must your PDT have?** |\n| As per the ICA, your PDT result must not be a handwritten document, and [fulfil the following:](https:\/\/safetravel.ica.gov.sg\/vtl\/faq#PDT) Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation); Contains the traveller’s name, and Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore); and Reflects the date and result of the COVID-19 test I want to draw particular attention to (2), because both **Date of Birth** and **Passport number** are acceptable personal identifiers. Therefore it doesn’t matter if your document only has one and not the other. |\n\nI did my testing mostly around the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area, but CVS and Curative have locations all over the US, and the process will be the same regardless.\n\n## CVS\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| ![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/CVS-Pharmacy-Logo.jpg) |   |\n| **Key Information** |   |\n| **Tests Offered** | PCR\/Antigen |\n| **Appointment Required?** | Yes  [Booking Link](https:\/\/www.cvs.com\/minuteclinic\/covid-19-testing) |\n| **Time to Results** | 25 hours (PCR) |\n| **Results Valid for Travel?** | Yes |\n### Registration\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/cvs-bookig-link.jpg)\n\n[Visit the booking link](https:\/\/www.cvs.com\/minuteclinic\/covid-19-testing) and enter your ZIP code to find the closest locations. You’ll be asked the following yes\/no questions:\n\n1. Are you seeking a COVID-19 test because of high transmission rates and difficulty maintaining recommended social distancing?\n2. In the last 14 days, have you had contact with someone who has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19?\n3. Have you been asked or referred to get tested by a health care provider?\n4. Have you experienced any symptoms in the last 14 days?\n\nIf you answer “no” to all, you’ll be told you’re not eligible for no-cost testing at a CVS location, and referred elsewhere instead. However, most of us could honestly answer “yes” to (1); I’d just attended a week of tennis games in a crowded stadium, after all.\n\nNext, select a testing location and appointment slot that works with you. Remember that you can search for either PCRs or rapid-result tests (aka ARTs) by checking the relevant box.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/filter-test.jpg)\n\nThe next step is to enter your personal info. Most of it is self-explanatory, except the health insurance question. For this, select “I’m uninsured”, and leave the rest blank (your travel insurance does not count as health insurance). Leave the social security number field blank.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/insurance4.jpg)\n\nThe other piece of advice I’d give is to select “prefer not to answer” to the question about whether you’re received a COVID-19 vaccine. If you select “yes”, you’ll need to enter information about all the dates and brands of your doses. It’s a lot of extra clicks, and not necessary.\n\n### Taking the test\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220314_173718863.jpg)\n\nCVS testing\n\nMost if not all CVS tests will be done at the drive-through pharmacy. If you don’t have a car, go inside the pharmacy and ask for assistance.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220314_173939287.jpg)\n\nDrive-thru pharmacy\n\nWhen you pull up to the window, you’ll be asked for your confirmation code. Surprisingly, I wasn’t asked for ID, but I can’t guarantee it’ll be the case for you as well. The staff will confirm your personal details, then pass you a specimen bag to collect your sample. That’s right- whether you choose a PCR or rapid test, you’ll be the one doing the swabbing.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/redacted.jpg)\n\nSample collection bag\n\nNow, I’m well aware the ICA’s website says that swabs must be administered by a trained professional, but this falls into the grey area of supervised self-swabs. I wouldn’t consider it to be an issue at all, especially when tele-supervised ARTs by CLEA have been successfully used by travellers [entering Singapore from Malaysia.](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2021\/11\/18\/full-details-singapore-malaysia-vaccinated-travel-lane-vtl\/)\n\nYou’ll deposit your sample in a drop-off box, and that’s it.\n\n### Results\nThe results of my CVS PCR test took just over 25 hours to come back. I received a link via SMS which allowed me to view the result on my phone, and also download a PDF copy.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/cvs-test.jpg)\n\nCVS tests do not feature one’s ID number, but as mentioned earlier, the date of birth is an acceptable substitute.\n\n## Total Testing Solutions (TTS)\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| **![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1611789141023.jpg)** |   |\n| **Key Information** |   |\n| **Tests Offered** | PCR\/Antigen |\n| **Appointment Required?** | Yes  [Booking Link](https:\/\/www.totaltestingsolutions.com\/individual-testing\/free-testing\/) |\n| **Time to Results** | 18 minutes (ART) |\n| **Results Valid for Travel?** | Yes |\n## Registration\nTTS has the simplest booking process of all three providers.\n\n[Visit the booking link](https:\/\/nextpatient.co\/p\/2291\/appointments) and select a test location and time slot. Under “reason”, select either a PCR or rapid antigen test. Leave the “insurance plan” and “insurance member ID” fields blank.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/booking-interface.jpg)\n\nClick book appointment, and that’s it.\n\n### Taking the test\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_201337563.jpg)\n\nTTS swabbing station\n\nThe TTS location I visited was spartan, to say the least. It was nothing more than a tent set up in the carpark of an office park, but on the plus side, there were no queues either. We arrived more than two hours before our selected time slot, but the staff didn’t care.\n\nDuring registration, be sure to provide your passport and state that you need the test for travel. Make things easy by telling them exactly what to enter as your first and last name; Americans tend to have a hard time with hanyu pinyin names.\n\nYou may also be asked about health insurance, to which you can just tell them you’re from overseas.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/dad-swab.jpg)\n\nProfessional swabbing\n\nUnlike the other providers I visited, swabbing at TTS was professionally-administered for both PCR and antigen tests.\n\n### Results\nI was told that the results for my antigen test could take up to four hours to arrive, but I got mine just 18 minutes later. Two emails were sent; the first was a link to a results page with my name, birth date, test date and result date.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/test-results.jpg)\n\nThis alone would be sufficient for travel, but I also received a separate PDF with my passport number included and a digital signature.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/tts-result.jpg)\n\n## Curative\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| **![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Curative-1.jpg)** |   |\n| **Key Information** |   |\n| **Test Type** | PCR\/Antigen |\n| **Appointment required?** | Yes  [Booking Link](https:\/\/book.curative.com\/search) |\n| **Time to Results** | 42 hours (PCR) |\n| **Results Valid for Travel?** | Yes |\n### Registration\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/curative.jpg)\n\n[Visit the booking link](https:\/\/book.curative.com\/search) and enter your ZIP code to find nearby locations.\n\nOnce you’ve chosen a location and time slot, you’ll be asked for some personal information, whether you have health insurance (select “no”), and to upload the front and back of your ID (you don’t need to upload anything if you don’t want to).\n\n### Taking the test\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_193442162.jpg)\n\nCurative\n\nMy Curative test took place in the car park of a high school, which was empty due to spring break.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_193744570.jpg)\n\nCurative test booth\n\nAt the booth, the attendant asked for our confirmation code and a photo ID, after which he issued us our test packets.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_194227401.jpg)\n\nSample collection bag\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_193755841.jpg)\n\nCollection instructions\n\nSamples are self-collected, and interestingly enough, Curative also seems to accept registrations on the spot (though the QR code was missing).\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_194435030.jpg)\n\nOn-the-spot appointments\n### Results\nCurative results took the longest to come back, but that could just be my bad luck. I did my swab at 12.40 p.m on 17 March, but the specimen only arrived in the lab at 11.30 p.m on 18 March.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/curative2.jpg)\n\nIt means my turnaround time was about **42 hours,** though your experience could very well differ if your sample is collected soon after it’s taken.\n\nThe results certificate had all the information required for travel.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/curative-result.jpg)\n\n## Conclusion\nPre-departure COVID-19 testing in the USA doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, so long as you know where to get it done. Community testing centres are plentiful, and bookings can be done entirely online. All you really need is a local phone number, and to take a little time off your trip to get it done.\n\nI suppose if you really were in a rush, you could also take an [tele-supervised ART from Raffles Medical at S\\$30.](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/19\/good-news-overseas-tele-supervised-arts-now-valid-for-travel-to-singapore-from-selected-countries\/)\n\n**Any other testing centres you’d recommend for the US?**\n\n*Purchases made through any of the links in this article may generate an affiliate commission that supports the running of the site. Found this post useful? Subscribe to our [Telegram Channel](https:\/\/t.me\/milelionroars) to get these posts pushed directly to your phone, or our newsletter via the home page.*\n\n- [featured](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/featured\/)\n- [usa](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/usa\/)\n- [vtl](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/vtl\/)\n\n[![Aaron Wong](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=130&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/ \"Aaron Wong\")\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\nAaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful.\n\nPrevious article\n\n[Accor Flash Sale: Up to 40% off Singapore hotels (fully refundable)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/19\/accor-flash-sale-up-to-40-off-singapore-hotels-fully-refundable\/)\n\nNext article\n\n[DBS offering S\\$300 cashback for new cardmembers (but raises minimum spend)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/dbs-offering-s300-cashback-for-new-cardmembers-but-raises-minimum-spend\/)\n### Similar Articles\n### [Guide: Applying for an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) in Singapore](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2026\/03\/14\/full-guide-applying-for-an-apec-business-travel-card-abtc-in-singapore\/ \"Guide: Applying for an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) in Singapore\")\n[General Travel](https:\/\/milelion.com\/category\/general-travel\/)\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/) \\-\n\nMar 14, 2026\n\n### [Gamechanger: My experience with Starlink Mini](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2026\/02\/10\/gamechanger-my-experience-with-starlink-mini\/ \"Gamechanger: My experience with Starlink Mini\")\n[General Travel](https:\/\/milelion.com\/category\/general-travel\/)\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/) \\-\n\nFeb 10, 2026\n### Comments\n#### 12 COMMENTS\nSubscribe\n\n12 Comments\n\nOldest\n\nNewest\n\nInline Feedbacks\n\nView all comments\n\n![Sandra](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nSandra\n\n4 years ago\n\nI recommend Cityhealth UC! I took it at downtown SF, but they have branches all over. It was a walk-in, also tent style like TTS. Fuss-free and most importantly free! Results were out in 45 mins 🙂\n\nReply\n\n![anon](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nanon\n\n4 years ago\n\nDid you poke yourself that many times just for this article? haha\n\nReply\n\n[![Aaron Wong](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=64&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\nAuthor\n\nReply to  [anon](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comment-39230)\n\n4 years ago\n\nwell, we figured it’d also be socially responsible to test often, since we were attending high density events (with no mask requirements!)\n\nReply\n\n![sk234](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nsk234\n\nReply to  [Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comment-39231)\n\n4 years ago\n\nWould you have done the same if you had to pay for each test?\n\nReply\n\n![Yuval Noah Harari](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nYuval Noah Harari\n\n4 years ago\n\nIf it’s free you are the product.\n\nReply\n\n![Jonathan Lim](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nJonathan Lim\n\nReply to  [Yuval Noah Harari](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comment-39232)\n\n4 years ago\n\nTechnically the “free” tests are not free. They are funded by the US government (aka taxpayers) thru the CARES Act. So happen foreigners are eligible to enjoy this perk too\n\nReply\n\n![Ortloc](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nOrtloc\n\n4 years ago\n\nI remember reading somewhere that free testing is allowed only once every 7 days to prevent abuse of the system. I guess this one slipped through.\n\nAnyways, I paid for a US Skype number, which is much cheaper than getting a US prepaid sim card, to receive the SMS. Works just as it should, except you receive the SMS through the Skype app.\n\nReply\n\n![Jon](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nJon\n\nReply to  [Ortloc](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comment-39239)\n\n4 years ago\n\nI use TextNow free iOS app for free US number. It gives free calls and SMS to US numbers.\n\nReply\n\n![Joel](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nJoel\n\n4 years ago\n\nUgh wasted \\$80 in LAX cause I wasn’t sure if I could do it at CVS\n\nReply\n\n![Zaos](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nZaos\n\n4 years ago\n\nNot all CVS testing will be at pharmacy, btw. Could be outside in a small container too.\n\nReply\n\n[![Aaron Wong](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=64&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\nAuthor\n\nReply to  [Zaos](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comment-39305)\n\n4 years ago\n\ni’m now hearing that free testing will lapse soon because it didn’t get new funding…\n\nReply\n\n![Zaos](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g)\n\nZaos\n\nReply to  [Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/20\/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing\/#comment-39313)\n\n4 years ago\n\nYes, the allotted federal funds has been exhausted. It’s not the last chapter in the story for sure.\n\nIndividual states might choose to pay or run their own “free” sites – we’ll see.\n\nMeanwhile – should be ways to bring the cost down significantly. Nowadays negotiated rates for rapid tests should be around \\$20. Full price has stuck at \\$159, lol.  \n Maybe pharmacy discount network cards (basically giving access to negotiated rates), or some sort.\n\nReply\n\n#### CREDIT CARD SIGN UP BONUSES\nAdvertisment\n\n#### Featured Deals\nAdvertisment\n\n[Join The Milelion on Telegram](https:\/\/t.me\/milelion \"Join The Milelion on Telegram\")\n\n[Subscribe to Milelion Roars](https:\/\/t.me\/milelionroars \"Subscribe to Milelion Roars\")\n\n[Milelion Events](https:\/\/milelion.com\/events \"Milelion Events\")\n\n#### Follow us\n7,110Fans[Like](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/themilelion)\n\n14,912Followers[Follow](https:\/\/instagram.com\/themilelion)\n#### TAGS\n[featured](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/featured\/)[credit cards](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/credit-cards\/)[airlines](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/airlines\/)[hotels](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/hotels\/)[singapore airlines](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/singapore-airlines\/)[deals](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/deals\/)[star alliance](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/star-alliance\/)[krisflyer](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/krisflyer\/)[amex](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/amex\/)[guestwriters](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/guestwriters\/)[trip reports](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/trip-reports\/)[wds](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/wds\/)[uob](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/uob\/)[dbs](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/dbs\/)[oneworld](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/oneworld\/)[citibank](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/citibank\/)[mattc](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/mattc\/)[american express](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/american-express\/)[ocbc](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/ocbc\/)[hilton](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/hilton\/)[sq](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/sq\/)[singsaver](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/singsaver\/)[lounge](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/lounge\/)[hotel review](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/hotel-review\/)[staycations](https:\/\/milelion.com\/tag\/staycations\/)\n\n[THE MILELION](https:\/\/milelion.com\/)\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/milelion.com\/)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/milelion.com\/about-us\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/milelion.com\/contact-us\/)\n\n© Copyright 2026 The Milelion All Rights Reserved \\| [Web Design](https:\/\/enchant.sg\/) by Enchant.sg\n\nwpDiscuz\n\nInsert","attrs_readable_markdown":"Healthcare costs in the USA are frightening, but COVID-19 testing can be done for free if you know where to look.\n\nIt’s no secret that healthcare costs in the USA can be frightening, with a simple visit to the doctor easily setting you back a couple hundred dollars.\n\nTherefore, I was expecting to pay through the nose (in more ways than one) for a COVID test, and indeed, [airport locations](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2021\/12\/29\/vtl-which-airports-offer-pre-departure-antigen-rapid-testing-arts\/) are charging hefty rates for pre-departure testing (PDT).\n\nFor example, if you wanted to take a [rapid antigen test at LAX,](https:\/\/www.flylax.com\/travelsafely#CovidTest) you’d pay US\\$80. [At JFK](https:\/\/adamshealthservices.com\/#faq), it’s US\\$179. At least antigen tests are available over there; [SFO](https:\/\/www.flysfo.com\/travel-well\/covid-19-testing) only offers PCR tests, and a 60-minute option would cost you US\\$250\\!\n\n**⚠️ Note:** From 23 March 2022, free COVID testing will be discontinued due to a cut in funding. The locations mentioned in this article will begin charging for tests from this date.\n\nBut there’s a better solution: the free tests offered at pharmacies and other community locations. These are available to everyone, **even non-US residents.** I had concerns about whether the results certificate would be valid for travel, but everything went without a hitch.\n\n## Overview: Pre-departure testing in USA\nI did a total of three COVID tests in the USA, at three different providers:\n\n- Curative\n- CVS\n- Total Testing Solutions (TTS)\n\nI’ll talk about each one in a bit, but first, a few general points to note:\n\n- Having a car will be a big convenience, as many testing locations use drive-thru testing. However, it’s not essential\n- Most providers require you to book an appointment, although one place I visited (Curative) allowed on-the-spot bookings\n- The providers I visited weren’t strict about timings at all; I showed up 2-3 hours ahead of schedule and they accommodated me\n- Registration requires a ten-digit US phone number, so it really helps if you have a local SIM card\n- Don’t talk about “ARTs” in the US; no one will know what you’re talking about. Instead, say “rapid test”\n\n|   |\n|---|\n| **❓ What information must your PDT have?** |\n| As per the ICA, your PDT result must not be a handwritten document, and [fulfil the following:](https:\/\/safetravel.ica.gov.sg\/vtl\/faq#PDT) Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation); Contains the traveller’s name, and Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore); and Reflects the date and result of the COVID-19 test I want to draw particular attention to (2), because both **Date of Birth** and **Passport number** are acceptable personal identifiers. Therefore it doesn’t matter if your document only has one and not the other. |\n\nI did my testing mostly around the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area, but CVS and Curative have locations all over the US, and the process will be the same regardless.\n\n## CVS\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| ![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/CVS-Pharmacy-Logo.jpg) |   |\n| **Key Information** |   |\n| **Tests Offered** | PCR\/Antigen |\n| **Appointment Required?** | Yes  [Booking Link](https:\/\/www.cvs.com\/minuteclinic\/covid-19-testing) |\n| **Time to Results** | 25 hours (PCR) |\n| **Results Valid for Travel?** | Yes |\n### Registration\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/cvs-bookig-link.jpg)\n\n[Visit the booking link](https:\/\/www.cvs.com\/minuteclinic\/covid-19-testing) and enter your ZIP code to find the closest locations. You’ll be asked the following yes\/no questions:\n\n1. Are you seeking a COVID-19 test because of high transmission rates and difficulty maintaining recommended social distancing?\n2. In the last 14 days, have you had contact with someone who has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19?\n3. Have you been asked or referred to get tested by a health care provider?\n4. Have you experienced any symptoms in the last 14 days?\n\nIf you answer “no” to all, you’ll be told you’re not eligible for no-cost testing at a CVS location, and referred elsewhere instead. However, most of us could honestly answer “yes” to (1); I’d just attended a week of tennis games in a crowded stadium, after all.\n\nNext, select a testing location and appointment slot that works with you. Remember that you can search for either PCRs or rapid-result tests (aka ARTs) by checking the relevant box.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/filter-test.jpg)\n\nThe next step is to enter your personal info. Most of it is self-explanatory, except the health insurance question. For this, select “I’m uninsured”, and leave the rest blank (your travel insurance does not count as health insurance). Leave the social security number field blank.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/insurance4.jpg)\n\nThe other piece of advice I’d give is to select “prefer not to answer” to the question about whether you’re received a COVID-19 vaccine. If you select “yes”, you’ll need to enter information about all the dates and brands of your doses. It’s a lot of extra clicks, and not necessary.\n\n### Taking the test\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220314_173718863.jpg)\n\nCVS testing\n\nMost if not all CVS tests will be done at the drive-through pharmacy. If you don’t have a car, go inside the pharmacy and ask for assistance.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220314_173939287.jpg)\n\nDrive-thru pharmacy\n\nWhen you pull up to the window, you’ll be asked for your confirmation code. Surprisingly, I wasn’t asked for ID, but I can’t guarantee it’ll be the case for you as well. The staff will confirm your personal details, then pass you a specimen bag to collect your sample. That’s right- whether you choose a PCR or rapid test, you’ll be the one doing the swabbing.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/redacted.jpg)\n\nSample collection bag\n\nNow, I’m well aware the ICA’s website says that swabs must be administered by a trained professional, but this falls into the grey area of supervised self-swabs. I wouldn’t consider it to be an issue at all, especially when tele-supervised ARTs by CLEA have been successfully used by travellers [entering Singapore from Malaysia.](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2021\/11\/18\/full-details-singapore-malaysia-vaccinated-travel-lane-vtl\/)\n\nYou’ll deposit your sample in a drop-off box, and that’s it.\n\n### Results\nThe results of my CVS PCR test took just over 25 hours to come back. I received a link via SMS which allowed me to view the result on my phone, and also download a PDF copy.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/cvs-test.jpg)\n\nCVS tests do not feature one’s ID number, but as mentioned earlier, the date of birth is an acceptable substitute.\n\n## Total Testing Solutions (TTS)\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| **![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1611789141023.jpg)** |   |\n| **Key Information** |   |\n| **Tests Offered** | PCR\/Antigen |\n| **Appointment Required?** | Yes  [Booking Link](https:\/\/www.totaltestingsolutions.com\/individual-testing\/free-testing\/) |\n| **Time to Results** | 18 minutes (ART) |\n| **Results Valid for Travel?** | Yes |\n## Registration\nTTS has the simplest booking process of all three providers.\n\n[Visit the booking link](https:\/\/nextpatient.co\/p\/2291\/appointments) and select a test location and time slot. Under “reason”, select either a PCR or rapid antigen test. Leave the “insurance plan” and “insurance member ID” fields blank.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/booking-interface.jpg)\n\nClick book appointment, and that’s it.\n\n### Taking the test\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_201337563.jpg)\n\nTTS swabbing station\n\nThe TTS location I visited was spartan, to say the least. It was nothing more than a tent set up in the carpark of an office park, but on the plus side, there were no queues either. We arrived more than two hours before our selected time slot, but the staff didn’t care.\n\nDuring registration, be sure to provide your passport and state that you need the test for travel. Make things easy by telling them exactly what to enter as your first and last name; Americans tend to have a hard time with hanyu pinyin names.\n\nYou may also be asked about health insurance, to which you can just tell them you’re from overseas.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/dad-swab.jpg)\n\nProfessional swabbing\n\nUnlike the other providers I visited, swabbing at TTS was professionally-administered for both PCR and antigen tests.\n\n### Results\nI was told that the results for my antigen test could take up to four hours to arrive, but I got mine just 18 minutes later. Two emails were sent; the first was a link to a results page with my name, birth date, test date and result date.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/test-results.jpg)\n\nThis alone would be sufficient for travel, but I also received a separate PDF with my passport number included and a digital signature.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/tts-result.jpg)\n\n## Curative\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| **![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Curative-1.jpg)** |   |\n| **Key Information** |   |\n| **Test Type** | PCR\/Antigen |\n| **Appointment required?** | Yes  [Booking Link](https:\/\/book.curative.com\/search) |\n| **Time to Results** | 42 hours (PCR) |\n| **Results Valid for Travel?** | Yes |\n### Registration\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/curative.jpg)\n\n[Visit the booking link](https:\/\/book.curative.com\/search) and enter your ZIP code to find nearby locations.\n\nOnce you’ve chosen a location and time slot, you’ll be asked for some personal information, whether you have health insurance (select “no”), and to upload the front and back of your ID (you don’t need to upload anything if you don’t want to).\n\n### Taking the test\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_193442162.jpg)\n\nCurative\n\nMy Curative test took place in the car park of a high school, which was empty due to spring break.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_193744570.jpg)\n\nCurative test booth\n\nAt the booth, the attendant asked for our confirmation code and a photo ID, after which he issued us our test packets.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_194227401.jpg)\n\nSample collection bag\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_193755841.jpg)\n\nCollection instructions\n\nSamples are self-collected, and interestingly enough, Curative also seems to accept registrations on the spot (though the QR code was missing).\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/PXL_20220317_194435030.jpg)\n\nOn-the-spot appointments\n### Results\nCurative results took the longest to come back, but that could just be my bad luck. I did my swab at 12.40 p.m on 17 March, but the specimen only arrived in the lab at 11.30 p.m on 18 March.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/curative2.jpg)\n\nIt means my turnaround time was about **42 hours,** though your experience could very well differ if your sample is collected soon after it’s taken.\n\nThe results certificate had all the information required for travel.\n\n![](https:\/\/milelion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/curative-result.jpg)\n\n## Conclusion\nPre-departure COVID-19 testing in the USA doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, so long as you know where to get it done. Community testing centres are plentiful, and bookings can be done entirely online. All you really need is a local phone number, and to take a little time off your trip to get it done.\n\nI suppose if you really were in a rush, you could also take an [tele-supervised ART from Raffles Medical at S\\$30.](https:\/\/milelion.com\/2022\/03\/19\/good-news-overseas-tele-supervised-arts-now-valid-for-travel-to-singapore-from-selected-countries\/)\n\n**Any other testing centres you’d recommend for the US?**\n\n[![Aaron Wong](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=130&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/ \"Aaron Wong\")\n\n[Aaron Wong](https:\/\/milelion.com\/author\/aaronwong\/)\n\nAaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Healthcare costs in the USA are frightening, but COVID-19 testing can be done for free if you know where to look. It’s no secret that healthcare costs in the USA can be frightening, with a simple visit to the doctor easily setting you back a couple hundred dollars. Therefore, I was expecting to pay through the nose (in more ways than one) for a COVID test, and indeed, airport locations are charging hefty rates for pre-departure testing (PDT). For example, if you wanted to take a rapid antigen test at LAX, you’d pay US$80. At JFK , it’s US$179. At least antigen tests are available over there; SFO only offers PCR tests, and a 60-minute option would cost you US$250! ⚠️ Note: From 23 March 2022, free COVID testing will be discontinued due to a cut in funding. The locations mentioned in this article will begin charging for tests from this date. But there’s a better solution: the free tests offered at pharmacies and other community locations. These are available to everyone, even non-US residents. I had concerns about whether the results certificate would be valid for travel, but everything went without a hitch. Overview: Pre-departure testing in USA I did a total of three COVID tests in the USA, at three different providers: Curative CVS Total Testing Solutions (TTS) I’ll talk about each one in a bit, but first, a few general points to note: Having a car will be a big convenience, as many testing locations use drive-thru testing. However, it’s not essential Most providers require you to book an appointment, although one place I visited (Curative) allowed on-the-spot bookings The providers I visited weren’t strict about timings at all; I showed up 2-3 hours ahead of schedule and they accommodated me Registration requires a ten-digit US phone number, so it really helps if you have a local SIM card Don’t talk about “ARTs” in the US; no one will know what you’re talking about. Instead, say “rapid test” ❓ What information must your PDT have? As per the ICA, your PDT result must not be a handwritten document, and fulfil the following: Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation); Contains the traveller’s name, and Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore); and Reflects the date and result of the COVID-19 test I want to draw particular attention to (2), because both Date of Birth and Passport number are acceptable personal identifiers. Therefore it doesn’t matter if your document only has one and not the other. I did my testing mostly around the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area, but CVS and Curative have locations all over the US, and the process will be the same regardless. CVS Key Information Tests Offered PCR/Antigen Appointment Required? Yes Booking Link Time to Results 25 hours (PCR) Results Valid for Travel? Yes Registration Visit the booking link and enter your ZIP code to find the closest locations. You’ll be asked the following yes/no questions: Are you seeking a COVID-19 test because of high transmission rates and difficulty maintaining recommended social distancing? In the last 14 days, have you had contact with someone who has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19? Have you been asked or referred to get tested by a health care provider? Have you experienced any symptoms in the last 14 days? If you answer “no” to all, you’ll be told you’re not eligible for no-cost testing at a CVS location, and referred elsewhere instead. However, most of us could honestly answer “yes” to (1); I’d just attended a week of tennis games in a crowded stadium, after all. Next, select a testing location and appointment slot that works with you. Remember that you can search for either PCRs or rapid-result tests (aka ARTs) by checking the relevant box. The next step is to enter your personal info. Most of it is self-explanatory, except the health insurance question. For this, select “I’m uninsured”, and leave the rest blank (your travel insurance does not count as health insurance). Leave the social security number field blank. The other piece of advice I’d give is to select “prefer not to answer” to the question about whether you’re received a COVID-19 vaccine. If you select “yes”, you’ll need to enter information about all the dates and brands of your doses. It’s a lot of extra clicks, and not necessary. Taking the test CVS testing Most if not all CVS tests will be done at the drive-through pharmacy. If you don’t have a car, go inside the pharmacy and ask for assistance. Drive-thru pharmacy When you pull up to the window, you’ll be asked for your confirmation code. Surprisingly, I wasn’t asked for ID, but I can’t guarantee it’ll be the case for you as well. The staff will confirm your personal details, then pass you a specimen bag to collect your sample. That’s right- whether you choose a PCR or rapid test, you’ll be the one doing the swabbing. Sample collection bag Now, I’m well aware the ICA’s website says that swabs must be administered by a trained professional, but this falls into the grey area of supervised self-swabs. I wouldn’t consider it to be an issue at all, especially when tele-supervised ARTs by CLEA have been successfully used by travellers entering Singapore from Malaysia. You’ll deposit your sample in a drop-off box, and that’s it. Results The results of my CVS PCR test took just over 25 hours to come back. I received a link via SMS which allowed me to view the result on my phone, and also download a PDF copy. CVS tests do not feature one’s ID number, but as mentioned earlier, the date of birth is an acceptable substitute. Total Testing Solutions (TTS) Key Information Tests Offered PCR/Antigen Appointment Required? Yes Booking Link Time to Results 18 minutes (ART) Results Valid for Travel? Yes Registration TTS has the simplest booking process of all three providers. Visit the booking link and select a test location and time slot. Under “reason”, select either a PCR or rapid antigen test. Leave the “insurance plan” and “insurance member ID” fields blank. Click book appointment, and that’s it. Taking the test TTS swabbing station The TTS location I visited was spartan, to say the least. It was nothing more than a tent set up in the carpark of an office park, but on the plus side, there were no queues either. We arrived more than two hours before our selected time slot, but the staff didn’t care. During registration, be sure to provide your passport and state that you need the test for travel. Make things easy by telling them exactly what to enter as your first and last name; Americans tend to have a hard time with hanyu pinyin names. You may also be asked about health insurance, to which you can just tell them you’re from overseas. Professional swabbing Unlike the other providers I visited, swabbing at TTS was professionally-administered for both PCR and antigen tests. Results I was told that the results for my antigen test could take up to four hours to arrive, but I got mine just 18 minutes later. Two emails were sent; the first was a link to a results page with my name, birth date, test date and result date. This alone would be sufficient for travel, but I also received a separate PDF with my passport number included and a digital signature. Curative Key Information Test Type PCR/Antigen Appointment required? Yes Booking Link Time to Results 42 hours (PCR) Results Valid for Travel? Yes Registration Visit the booking link and enter your ZIP code to find nearby locations. Once you’ve chosen a location and time slot, you’ll be asked for some personal information, whether you have health insurance (select “no”), and to upload the front and back of your ID (you don’t need to upload anything if you don’t want to). Taking the test Curative My Curative test took place in the car park of a high school, which was empty due to spring break. Curative test booth At the booth, the attendant asked for our confirmation code and a photo ID, after which he issued us our test packets. Sample collection bag Collection instructions Samples are self-collected, and interestingly enough, Curative also seems to accept registrations on the spot (though the QR code was missing). On-the-spot appointments Results Curative results took the longest to come back, but that could just be my bad luck. I did my swab at 12.40 p.m on 17 March, but the specimen only arrived in the lab at 11.30 p.m on 18 March. It means my turnaround time was about 42 hours, though your experience could very well differ if your sample is collected soon after it’s taken. The results certificate had all the information required for travel. Conclusion Pre-departure COVID-19 testing in the USA doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, so long as you know where to get it done. Community testing centres are plentiful, and bookings can be done entirely online. All you really need is a local phone number, and to take a little time off your trip to get it done. I suppose if you really were in a rush, you could also take an tele-supervised ART from Raffles Medical at S$30. Any other testing centres you’d recommend for the US? Aaron Wong Aaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful.
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[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmilelion.com%2F2022%2F03%2F20%2Fusa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing%2F "Facebook") [X](https://x.com/intent/post?text=USA+VTL%3A+My+experience+with+pre-departure+COVID-19+testing&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmilelion.com%2F2022%2F03%2F20%2Fusa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing%2F&via=The+MileLion "X") [Telegram](https://telegram.me/share/url?url=https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/&text=USA+VTL%3A+My+experience+with+pre-departure+COVID-19+testing "Telegram") [WhatsApp](https://api.whatsapp.com/send?text=USA+VTL%3A+My+experience+with+pre-departure+COVID-19+testing%20%0A%0A%20https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/ "WhatsApp") It’s no secret that healthcare costs in the USA can be frightening, with a simple visit to the doctor easily setting you back a couple hundred dollars. Therefore, I was expecting to pay through the nose (in more ways than one) for a COVID test, and indeed, [airport locations](https://milelion.com/2021/12/29/vtl-which-airports-offer-pre-departure-antigen-rapid-testing-arts/) are charging hefty rates for pre-departure testing (PDT). For example, if you wanted to take a [rapid antigen test at LAX,](https://www.flylax.com/travelsafely#CovidTest) you’d pay US\$80. [At JFK](https://adamshealthservices.com/#faq), it’s US\$179. At least antigen tests are available over there; [SFO](https://www.flysfo.com/travel-well/covid-19-testing) only offers PCR tests, and a 60-minute option would cost you US\$250\! \| \| \|---\| \| ⚠️ Note: From 23 March 2022, free COVID testing will be discontinued due to a cut in funding. The locations mentioned in this article will begin charging for tests from this date. \| But there’s a better solution: the free tests offered at pharmacies and other community locations. These are available to everyone, even non-US residents. I had concerns about whether the results certificate would be valid for travel, but everything went without a hitch. \| \| \|---\| \| 🎾 Tennis Paradise \| \| [Tennis Paradise: Trip Planning](https://milelion.com/2022/03/08/tennis-paradise-usa-vtl-trip-planning/) [ANA Suite Lounge NRT](https://milelion.com/2022/03/22/review-ana-suite-lounge-tokyo-narita-airport/) [United Airlines Polaris Lounge SFO](https://milelion.com/2022/04/05/review-united-polaris-lounge-san-francisco/) [USA Pre-Departure Testing: Bay Area](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/) [VTL Simplified Post-Arrival Process](https://milelion.com/2022/03/21/my-experience-with-the-simplified-vtl-arrivals-process-in-singapore/) \| ## Overview: Pre-departure testing in USA I did a total of three COVID tests in the USA, at three different providers: - Curative - CVS - Total Testing Solutions (TTS) I’ll talk about each one in a bit, but first, a few general points to note: - Having a car will be a big convenience, as many testing locations use drive-thru testing. However, it’s not essential - Most providers require you to book an appointment, although one place I visited (Curative) allowed on-the-spot bookings - The providers I visited weren’t strict about timings at all; I showed up 2-3 hours ahead of schedule and they accommodated me - Registration requires a ten-digit US phone number, so it really helps if you have a local SIM card - Don’t talk about “ARTs” in the US; no one will know what you’re talking about. Instead, say “rapid test” \| \| \|---\| \| ❓ What information must your PDT have? \| \| As per the ICA, your PDT result must not be a handwritten document, and [fulfil the following:](https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/vtl/faq#PDT) Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation); Contains the traveller’s name, and Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore); and Reflects the date and result of the COVID-19 test I want to draw particular attention to (2), because both Date of Birth and Passport number are acceptable personal identifiers. Therefore it doesn’t matter if your document only has one and not the other. \| I did my testing mostly around the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area, but CVS and Curative have locations all over the US, and the process will be the same regardless. ## CVS \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/CVS-Pharmacy-Logo.jpg) \| \| \| Key Information \| \| \| Tests Offered \| PCR/Antigen \| \| Appointment Required? \| Yes [Booking Link](https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing) \| \| Time to Results \| 25 hours (PCR) \| \| Results Valid for Travel? \| Yes \| ### Registration ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cvs-bookig-link.jpg) [Visit the booking link](https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing) and enter your ZIP code to find the closest locations. You’ll be asked the following yes/no questions: 1. Are you seeking a COVID-19 test because of high transmission rates and difficulty maintaining recommended social distancing? 2. In the last 14 days, have you had contact with someone who has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19? 3. Have you been asked or referred to get tested by a health care provider? 4. Have you experienced any symptoms in the last 14 days? If you answer “no” to all, you’ll be told you’re not eligible for no-cost testing at a CVS location, and referred elsewhere instead. However, most of us could honestly answer “yes” to (1); I’d just attended a week of tennis games in a crowded stadium, after all. Next, select a testing location and appointment slot that works with you. Remember that you can search for either PCRs or rapid-result tests (aka ARTs) by checking the relevant box. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/filter-test.jpg) The next step is to enter your personal info. Most of it is self-explanatory, except the health insurance question. For this, select “I’m uninsured”, and leave the rest blank (your travel insurance does not count as health insurance). Leave the social security number field blank. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/insurance4.jpg) The other piece of advice I’d give is to select “prefer not to answer” to the question about whether you’re received a COVID-19 vaccine. If you select “yes”, you’ll need to enter information about all the dates and brands of your doses. It’s a lot of extra clicks, and not necessary. ### Taking the test ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220314_173718863.jpg) CVS testing Most if not all CVS tests will be done at the drive-through pharmacy. If you don’t have a car, go inside the pharmacy and ask for assistance. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220314_173939287.jpg) Drive-thru pharmacy When you pull up to the window, you’ll be asked for your confirmation code. Surprisingly, I wasn’t asked for ID, but I can’t guarantee it’ll be the case for you as well. The staff will confirm your personal details, then pass you a specimen bag to collect your sample. That’s right- whether you choose a PCR or rapid test, you’ll be the one doing the swabbing. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/redacted.jpg) Sample collection bag Now, I’m well aware the ICA’s website says that swabs must be administered by a trained professional, but this falls into the grey area of supervised self-swabs. I wouldn’t consider it to be an issue at all, especially when tele-supervised ARTs by CLEA have been successfully used by travellers [entering Singapore from Malaysia.](https://milelion.com/2021/11/18/full-details-singapore-malaysia-vaccinated-travel-lane-vtl/) You’ll deposit your sample in a drop-off box, and that’s it. ### Results The results of my CVS PCR test took just over 25 hours to come back. I received a link via SMS which allowed me to view the result on my phone, and also download a PDF copy. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cvs-test.jpg) CVS tests do not feature one’s ID number, but as mentioned earlier, the date of birth is an acceptable substitute. ## Total Testing Solutions (TTS) \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/1611789141023.jpg) \| \| \| Key Information \| \| \| Tests Offered \| PCR/Antigen \| \| Appointment Required? \| Yes [Booking Link](https://www.totaltestingsolutions.com/individual-testing/free-testing/) \| \| Time to Results \| 18 minutes (ART) \| \| Results Valid for Travel? \| Yes \| ## Registration TTS has the simplest booking process of all three providers. [Visit the booking link](https://nextpatient.co/p/2291/appointments) and select a test location and time slot. Under “reason”, select either a PCR or rapid antigen test. Leave the “insurance plan” and “insurance member ID” fields blank. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/booking-interface.jpg) Click book appointment, and that’s it. ### Taking the test ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_201337563.jpg) TTS swabbing station The TTS location I visited was spartan, to say the least. It was nothing more than a tent set up in the carpark of an office park, but on the plus side, there were no queues either. We arrived more than two hours before our selected time slot, but the staff didn’t care. During registration, be sure to provide your passport and state that you need the test for travel. Make things easy by telling them exactly what to enter as your first and last name; Americans tend to have a hard time with hanyu pinyin names. You may also be asked about health insurance, to which you can just tell them you’re from overseas. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/dad-swab.jpg) Professional swabbing Unlike the other providers I visited, swabbing at TTS was professionally-administered for both PCR and antigen tests. ### Results I was told that the results for my antigen test could take up to four hours to arrive, but I got mine just 18 minutes later. Two emails were sent; the first was a link to a results page with my name, birth date, test date and result date. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/test-results.jpg) This alone would be sufficient for travel, but I also received a separate PDF with my passport number included and a digital signature. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/tts-result.jpg) ## Curative \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Curative-1.jpg) \| \| \| Key Information \| \| \| Test Type \| PCR/Antigen \| \| Appointment required? \| Yes [Booking Link](https://book.curative.com/search) \| \| Time to Results \| 42 hours (PCR) \| \| Results Valid for Travel? \| Yes \| ### Registration ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/curative.jpg) [Visit the booking link](https://book.curative.com/search) and enter your ZIP code to find nearby locations. Once you’ve chosen a location and time slot, you’ll be asked for some personal information, whether you have health insurance (select “no”), and to upload the front and back of your ID (you don’t need to upload anything if you don’t want to). ### Taking the test ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_193442162.jpg) Curative My Curative test took place in the car park of a high school, which was empty due to spring break. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_193744570.jpg) Curative test booth At the booth, the attendant asked for our confirmation code and a photo ID, after which he issued us our test packets. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_194227401.jpg) Sample collection bag ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_193755841.jpg) Collection instructions Samples are self-collected, and interestingly enough, Curative also seems to accept registrations on the spot (though the QR code was missing). ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_194435030.jpg) On-the-spot appointments ### Results Curative results took the longest to come back, but that could just be my bad luck. I did my swab at 12.40 p.m on 17 March, but the specimen only arrived in the lab at 11.30 p.m on 18 March. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/curative2.jpg) It means my turnaround time was about 42 hours, though your experience could very well differ if your sample is collected soon after it’s taken. The results certificate had all the information required for travel. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/curative-result.jpg) ## Conclusion Pre-departure COVID-19 testing in the USA doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, so long as you know where to get it done. Community testing centres are plentiful, and bookings can be done entirely online. All you really need is a local phone number, and to take a little time off your trip to get it done. I suppose if you really were in a rush, you could also take an [tele-supervised ART from Raffles Medical at S\$30.](https://milelion.com/2022/03/19/good-news-overseas-tele-supervised-arts-now-valid-for-travel-to-singapore-from-selected-countries/) Any other testing centres you’d recommend for the US? Purchases made through any of the links in this article may generate an affiliate commission that supports the running of the site. Found this post useful? Subscribe to our [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/milelionroars) to get these posts pushed directly to your phone, or our newsletter via the home page. - [featured](https://milelion.com/tag/featured/) - [usa](https://milelion.com/tag/usa/) - [vtl](https://milelion.com/tag/vtl/) [![Aaron Wong](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=130&d=mm&r=g)](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/ "Aaron Wong") [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) Aaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful. Previous article [Accor Flash Sale: Up to 40% off Singapore hotels (fully refundable)](https://milelion.com/2022/03/19/accor-flash-sale-up-to-40-off-singapore-hotels-fully-refundable/) Next article [DBS offering S\$300 cashback for new cardmembers (but raises minimum spend)](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/dbs-offering-s300-cashback-for-new-cardmembers-but-raises-minimum-spend/) ### Similar Articles ### [Guide: Applying for an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) in Singapore](https://milelion.com/2026/03/14/full-guide-applying-for-an-apec-business-travel-card-abtc-in-singapore/ "Guide: Applying for an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) in Singapore") [General Travel](https://milelion.com/category/general-travel/) [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) \- Mar 14, 2026 ### [Gamechanger: My experience with Starlink Mini](https://milelion.com/2026/02/10/gamechanger-my-experience-with-starlink-mini/ "Gamechanger: My experience with Starlink Mini") [General Travel](https://milelion.com/category/general-travel/) [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) \- Feb 10, 2026 ### Comments #### 12 COMMENTS Subscribe 12 Comments Oldest Newest Inline Feedbacks View all comments ![Sandra](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Sandra 4 years ago I recommend Cityhealth UC! I took it at downtown SF, but they have branches all over. It was a walk-in, also tent style like TTS. Fuss-free and most importantly free! Results were out in 45 mins 🙂 Reply ![anon](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) anon 4 years ago Did you poke yourself that many times just for this article? haha Reply [![Aaron Wong](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=64&d=mm&r=g)](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) Author Reply to [anon](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/#comment-39230) 4 years ago well, we figured it’d also be socially responsible to test often, since we were attending high density events (with no mask requirements!) Reply ![sk234](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) sk234 Reply to [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/#comment-39231) 4 years ago Would you have done the same if you had to pay for each test? Reply ![Yuval Noah Harari](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Yuval Noah Harari 4 years ago If it’s free you are the product. Reply ![Jonathan Lim](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Jonathan Lim Reply to [Yuval Noah Harari](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/#comment-39232) 4 years ago Technically the “free” tests are not free. They are funded by the US government (aka taxpayers) thru the CARES Act. So happen foreigners are eligible to enjoy this perk too Reply ![Ortloc](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Ortloc 4 years ago I remember reading somewhere that free testing is allowed only once every 7 days to prevent abuse of the system. I guess this one slipped through. Anyways, I paid for a US Skype number, which is much cheaper than getting a US prepaid sim card, to receive the SMS. Works just as it should, except you receive the SMS through the Skype app. Reply ![Jon](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Jon Reply to [Ortloc](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/#comment-39239) 4 years ago I use TextNow free iOS app for free US number. It gives free calls and SMS to US numbers. Reply ![Joel](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Joel 4 years ago Ugh wasted \$80 in LAX cause I wasn’t sure if I could do it at CVS Reply ![Zaos](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Zaos 4 years ago Not all CVS testing will be at pharmacy, btw. Could be outside in a small container too. Reply [![Aaron Wong](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=64&d=mm&r=g)](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) Author Reply to [Zaos](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/#comment-39305) 4 years ago i’m now hearing that free testing will lapse soon because it didn’t get new funding… Reply ![Zaos](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6708a76c26ade1f259f5beddfcca0ca4?s=32&d=mm&f=y&r=g) Zaos Reply to [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/2022/03/20/usa-vtl-my-experience-with-pre-departure-covid-19-testing/#comment-39313) 4 years ago Yes, the allotted federal funds has been exhausted. It’s not the last chapter in the story for sure. Individual states might choose to pay or run their own “free” sites – we’ll see. Meanwhile – should be ways to bring the cost down significantly. Nowadays negotiated rates for rapid tests should be around \$20. Full price has stuck at \$159, lol. Maybe pharmacy discount network cards (basically giving access to negotiated rates), or some sort. 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Readable Markdown	Healthcare costs in the USA are frightening, but COVID-19 testing can be done for free if you know where to look. It’s no secret that healthcare costs in the USA can be frightening, with a simple visit to the doctor easily setting you back a couple hundred dollars. Therefore, I was expecting to pay through the nose (in more ways than one) for a COVID test, and indeed, [airport locations](https://milelion.com/2021/12/29/vtl-which-airports-offer-pre-departure-antigen-rapid-testing-arts/) are charging hefty rates for pre-departure testing (PDT). For example, if you wanted to take a [rapid antigen test at LAX,](https://www.flylax.com/travelsafely#CovidTest) you’d pay US\$80. [At JFK](https://adamshealthservices.com/#faq), it’s US\$179. At least antigen tests are available over there; [SFO](https://www.flysfo.com/travel-well/covid-19-testing) only offers PCR tests, and a 60-minute option would cost you US\$250\! ⚠️ Note: From 23 March 2022, free COVID testing will be discontinued due to a cut in funding. The locations mentioned in this article will begin charging for tests from this date. But there’s a better solution: the free tests offered at pharmacies and other community locations. These are available to everyone, even non-US residents. I had concerns about whether the results certificate would be valid for travel, but everything went without a hitch. ## Overview: Pre-departure testing in USA I did a total of three COVID tests in the USA, at three different providers: - Curative - CVS - Total Testing Solutions (TTS) I’ll talk about each one in a bit, but first, a few general points to note: - Having a car will be a big convenience, as many testing locations use drive-thru testing. However, it’s not essential - Most providers require you to book an appointment, although one place I visited (Curative) allowed on-the-spot bookings - The providers I visited weren’t strict about timings at all; I showed up 2-3 hours ahead of schedule and they accommodated me - Registration requires a ten-digit US phone number, so it really helps if you have a local SIM card - Don’t talk about “ARTs” in the US; no one will know what you’re talking about. Instead, say “rapid test” \| \| \|---\| \| ❓ What information must your PDT have? \| \| As per the ICA, your PDT result must not be a handwritten document, and [fulfil the following:](https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/vtl/faq#PDT) Is in English (or accompanied with an English translation); Contains the traveller’s name, and Date of Birth or Passport number (per the passport used to travel to Singapore); and Reflects the date and result of the COVID-19 test I want to draw particular attention to (2), because both Date of Birth and Passport number are acceptable personal identifiers. Therefore it doesn’t matter if your document only has one and not the other. \| I did my testing mostly around the Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area, but CVS and Curative have locations all over the US, and the process will be the same regardless. ## CVS \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/CVS-Pharmacy-Logo.jpg) \| \| \| Key Information \| \| \| Tests Offered \| PCR/Antigen \| \| Appointment Required? \| Yes [Booking Link](https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing) \| \| Time to Results \| 25 hours (PCR) \| \| Results Valid for Travel? \| Yes \| ### Registration ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cvs-bookig-link.jpg) [Visit the booking link](https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing) and enter your ZIP code to find the closest locations. You’ll be asked the following yes/no questions: 1. Are you seeking a COVID-19 test because of high transmission rates and difficulty maintaining recommended social distancing? 2. In the last 14 days, have you had contact with someone who has a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19? 3. Have you been asked or referred to get tested by a health care provider? 4. Have you experienced any symptoms in the last 14 days? If you answer “no” to all, you’ll be told you’re not eligible for no-cost testing at a CVS location, and referred elsewhere instead. However, most of us could honestly answer “yes” to (1); I’d just attended a week of tennis games in a crowded stadium, after all. Next, select a testing location and appointment slot that works with you. Remember that you can search for either PCRs or rapid-result tests (aka ARTs) by checking the relevant box. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/filter-test.jpg) The next step is to enter your personal info. Most of it is self-explanatory, except the health insurance question. For this, select “I’m uninsured”, and leave the rest blank (your travel insurance does not count as health insurance). Leave the social security number field blank. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/insurance4.jpg) The other piece of advice I’d give is to select “prefer not to answer” to the question about whether you’re received a COVID-19 vaccine. If you select “yes”, you’ll need to enter information about all the dates and brands of your doses. It’s a lot of extra clicks, and not necessary. ### Taking the test ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220314_173718863.jpg) CVS testing Most if not all CVS tests will be done at the drive-through pharmacy. If you don’t have a car, go inside the pharmacy and ask for assistance. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220314_173939287.jpg) Drive-thru pharmacy When you pull up to the window, you’ll be asked for your confirmation code. Surprisingly, I wasn’t asked for ID, but I can’t guarantee it’ll be the case for you as well. The staff will confirm your personal details, then pass you a specimen bag to collect your sample. That’s right- whether you choose a PCR or rapid test, you’ll be the one doing the swabbing. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/redacted.jpg) Sample collection bag Now, I’m well aware the ICA’s website says that swabs must be administered by a trained professional, but this falls into the grey area of supervised self-swabs. I wouldn’t consider it to be an issue at all, especially when tele-supervised ARTs by CLEA have been successfully used by travellers [entering Singapore from Malaysia.](https://milelion.com/2021/11/18/full-details-singapore-malaysia-vaccinated-travel-lane-vtl/) You’ll deposit your sample in a drop-off box, and that’s it. ### Results The results of my CVS PCR test took just over 25 hours to come back. I received a link via SMS which allowed me to view the result on my phone, and also download a PDF copy. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cvs-test.jpg) CVS tests do not feature one’s ID number, but as mentioned earlier, the date of birth is an acceptable substitute. ## Total Testing Solutions (TTS) \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/1611789141023.jpg) \| \| \| Key Information \| \| \| Tests Offered \| PCR/Antigen \| \| Appointment Required? \| Yes [Booking Link](https://www.totaltestingsolutions.com/individual-testing/free-testing/) \| \| Time to Results \| 18 minutes (ART) \| \| Results Valid for Travel? \| Yes \| ## Registration TTS has the simplest booking process of all three providers. [Visit the booking link](https://nextpatient.co/p/2291/appointments) and select a test location and time slot. Under “reason”, select either a PCR or rapid antigen test. Leave the “insurance plan” and “insurance member ID” fields blank. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/booking-interface.jpg) Click book appointment, and that’s it. ### Taking the test ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_201337563.jpg) TTS swabbing station The TTS location I visited was spartan, to say the least. It was nothing more than a tent set up in the carpark of an office park, but on the plus side, there were no queues either. We arrived more than two hours before our selected time slot, but the staff didn’t care. During registration, be sure to provide your passport and state that you need the test for travel. Make things easy by telling them exactly what to enter as your first and last name; Americans tend to have a hard time with hanyu pinyin names. You may also be asked about health insurance, to which you can just tell them you’re from overseas. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/dad-swab.jpg) Professional swabbing Unlike the other providers I visited, swabbing at TTS was professionally-administered for both PCR and antigen tests. ### Results I was told that the results for my antigen test could take up to four hours to arrive, but I got mine just 18 minutes later. Two emails were sent; the first was a link to a results page with my name, birth date, test date and result date. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/test-results.jpg) This alone would be sufficient for travel, but I also received a separate PDF with my passport number included and a digital signature. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/tts-result.jpg) ## Curative \| \| \| \|---\|---\| \| ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Curative-1.jpg) \| \| \| Key Information \| \| \| Test Type \| PCR/Antigen \| \| Appointment required? \| Yes [Booking Link](https://book.curative.com/search) \| \| Time to Results \| 42 hours (PCR) \| \| Results Valid for Travel? \| Yes \| ### Registration ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/curative.jpg) [Visit the booking link](https://book.curative.com/search) and enter your ZIP code to find nearby locations. Once you’ve chosen a location and time slot, you’ll be asked for some personal information, whether you have health insurance (select “no”), and to upload the front and back of your ID (you don’t need to upload anything if you don’t want to). ### Taking the test ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_193442162.jpg) Curative My Curative test took place in the car park of a high school, which was empty due to spring break. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_193744570.jpg) Curative test booth At the booth, the attendant asked for our confirmation code and a photo ID, after which he issued us our test packets. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_194227401.jpg) Sample collection bag ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_193755841.jpg) Collection instructions Samples are self-collected, and interestingly enough, Curative also seems to accept registrations on the spot (though the QR code was missing). ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PXL_20220317_194435030.jpg) On-the-spot appointments ### Results Curative results took the longest to come back, but that could just be my bad luck. I did my swab at 12.40 p.m on 17 March, but the specimen only arrived in the lab at 11.30 p.m on 18 March. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/curative2.jpg) It means my turnaround time was about 42 hours, though your experience could very well differ if your sample is collected soon after it’s taken. The results certificate had all the information required for travel. ![](https://milelion.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/curative-result.jpg) ## Conclusion Pre-departure COVID-19 testing in the USA doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg, so long as you know where to get it done. Community testing centres are plentiful, and bookings can be done entirely online. All you really need is a local phone number, and to take a little time off your trip to get it done. I suppose if you really were in a rush, you could also take an [tele-supervised ART from Raffles Medical at S\$30.](https://milelion.com/2022/03/19/good-news-overseas-tele-supervised-arts-now-valid-for-travel-to-singapore-from-selected-countries/) Any other testing centres you’d recommend for the US? [![Aaron Wong](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6f16fbd532935054721b8e59ee4e67a24c08e54f0c8a3aa2ac74f7daee8cfe70?s=130&d=mm&r=g)](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/ "Aaron Wong") [Aaron Wong](https://milelion.com/author/aaronwong/) Aaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful.
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