How Much Does an STD Test Cost for 2026?

If you're wondering how much an STD test costs, here's the direct answer: individual STD tests cost $25 to $150 out of pocket, while comprehensive panels covering 6 to 10 infections range from $150 to $500 — but for many people, testing is free or very low cost through insurance, community health centers, or Planned Parenthood.

STD Test Costs by Testing Method

Through Insurance (ACA Preventive Benefits)

Under the Affordable Care Act, preventive STD screening is covered at no cost for eligible patients — meaning no copay and no deductible:

• Annual chlamydia and gonorrhea screening for all sexually active women under 25: free

• HIV screening for all adults aged 15 to 65: free (at least once)

• Syphilis screening for at-risk individuals: free

• STD screening during pregnancy: free

If testing is ordered diagnostically (because you have symptoms) rather than as preventive screening, your normal copay and deductible apply.

Private Testing Services (Out of Pocket)

Planned Parenthood (Sliding Scale)

Planned Parenthood offers STD testing on a sliding-scale fee based on income. For lower-income patients, costs can be $0 to $75 for individual tests, and $0 to $250 for a comprehensive panel. Medicaid is accepted and covers testing at no cost.

Health Department Clinics (Often Free)

Most county and city health department STD clinics offer free HIV testing and often free or very low-cost chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis testing. Herpes testing is typically not available or has a fee.

At-Home Test Kits

At-home kits (Everlywell, myLAB Box) cost $69 to $249 depending on the panel. They require mailing a sample and take 5 to 7 days for results — more convenient but slower and more expensive per test than lab-based services.

How to Pay Less

• Use your ACA preventive benefit if eligible — it's free

• Use HSA/FSA funds for out-of-pocket costs

• Use Planned Parenthood or a community health center if uninsured or lower-income

• Compare private testing services — they often offer better panel pricing than ordering directly through Quest or Labcorp

Health Test Express offers transparent, competitive pricing on lab-based STD panels with results in 1 to 2 days and no appointment needed.

Key Takeaways

• Individual tests cost $25–$150; comprehensive panels $150–$500 out of pocket

• ACA preventive benefits cover free chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV screening for eligible patients

• Health department clinics often provide free HIV testing

• Planned Parenthood uses sliding-scale fees — low-income patients may pay nothing

• Private testing services typically offer better pricing than direct lab ordering

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a full STD panel cost?

A comprehensive panel covering chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, herpes, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C typically costs $150 to $500 out of pocket through a private lab. Through insurance ACA preventive benefits, the core infections are covered free.

Can I get tested for STDs for free?

Yes — through ACA preventive benefits, health department clinics (especially for HIV), and Planned Parenthood for lower-income patients. Use gettested.cdc.gov to find free options near you.

Does insurance cover STD testing?

For preventive screening (no symptoms), yes — the ACA requires insurers to cover chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis screening at no cost for eligible patients. Diagnostic testing (with symptoms) is subject to your normal deductible and copay.

Related: Full STD test price guide · Free STD testing near you · Planned Parenthood STD testing cost · Quest Diagnostics STD panel cost · Get tested today

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.