Find a local clinic or provider (sexual health clinic, primary care, Planned Parenthood, community health center, urgent care)
Search “STI testing near me” or check your local health department website
Call ahead to ask which STI tests they offer and whether appointments or walk-ins are available
Decide which tests you need (commonly gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, and sometimes hepatitis and trichomonas)
Choose where samples are taken (urine, swabs for throat/genitals/rectum, blood draw)
Bring a photo ID and insurance information (or ask about low-cost or free testing options)
Ask for “full panel” testing if you want comprehensive screening
Tell the clinician your risk factors, symptoms (if any), and the type of sex you’ve had (oral, vaginal, anal) so they test the right sites
Schedule the test and follow any prep instructions (for example, avoid sex or follow urine collection timing instructions)
Get results through the clinic’s method (patient portal, phone, or email) and ask when to expect them
If you have symptoms or a known exposure, ask for testing as soon as possible and whether repeat testing is needed after the window period
If you can’t access a clinic, use reputable at-home test services and follow collection and return instructions exactly
If results are positive, ask for treatment options, partner notification guidance, and any recommended follow-up testing