Introduction
Since the beginning of the pandemic, access to quick and reliable COVID-19 testing has been essential. To make it easier for Americans to get tested without visiting clinics or waiting in long lines, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has played a key role in delivering free at-home COVID test kits directly to households.
If you’re wondering how to order your USPS COVID test, whether it’s still free, or what the latest updates are, this detailed guide will walk you through everything — from ordering your kits online to using them correctly.
What Is the USPS COVID Test Program?
The USPS COVID test program is a federal initiative that allows U.S. residents to order free at-home COVID-19 test kits delivered by the postal service. The program was created to make testing accessible to everyone, regardless of income, location, or insurance coverage.
These tests are rapid antigen tests approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can detect active COVID-19 infections within minutes. They are designed for self-testing at home without needing a healthcare provider.
Is the USPS COVID Test Free?
Yes. The USPS COVID test kits are completely free for all U.S. households.
There are no shipping fees, no insurance requirements, and no payment information needed when you place your order.
Each household is eligible for one free order per round, which typically includes four test kits. During certain high-transmission periods, the government reopens ordering for new rounds, allowing households to receive additional kits.
How to Order USPS COVID Test Kits
Ordering your free USPS COVID test is quick and simple. Here’s how you can do it in just a few steps:
- Visit the official website: special.usps.com/testkits
- Click the “Order Free At-Home Tests” button.
- Fill in your name, shipping address, and email (optional for updates).
- Submit your order — and that’s it!
You’ll receive a confirmation email once your request has been processed, followed by another email once your order ships.
Delivery usually takes 7–10 business days, depending on your location.
What’s Inside the USPS COVID Test Kit?
Every USPS COVID test kit contains:
- FDA-approved rapid antigen tests
- Detailed instructions for sample collection
- Test cassettes and buffer tubes
- Swabs for nasal sample collection
The tests detect active COVID-19 infections caused by various variants, including Omicron and its subvariants.
How to Use the USPS COVID Test at Home
Using the test is simple, but accuracy depends on following instructions carefully.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Wash your hands and ensure the testing area is clean.
- Open the test kit and check the expiration date.
- Collect a nasal sample using the sterile swab provided.
- Mix the sample with the reagent or buffer solution.
- Apply drops to the test card or cassette.
- Wait 15–30 minutes for your results.
Reading Results:
- Positive: Two lines appear (even if faint).
- Negative: Only one line appears at the control mark.
- Invalid: No line or unclear results — repeat the test with a new kit.
If your result is positive, you should isolate immediately and contact a healthcare provider for next steps.
Who Can Get USPS COVID Tests?
The USPS COVID test kits are available to:
- Every residential address in the United States.
- PO Box holders and U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.
- Military families and overseas service members via APO, FPO, and DPO addresses.
There’s no age limit or eligibility requirement — anyone living at an eligible address can order.
How Many USPS COVID Test Kits Can You Order?
The number of kits you can order depends on the active round of distribution. For example:
- Round 1: 4 free tests per household
- Round 2: Additional 4 tests
- Round 3 and onward: Announced during high case surges
You can check the official USPS COVID test order page to see if a new round is open.
Can You Still Order USPS COVID Tests in 2025?
Yes, as of now, the USPS free COVID test program is active again due to seasonal respiratory illness surges. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reopened free test orders in late 2024, and new batches have been distributed in 2025.
You can verify availability at special.usps.com/testkits.
Why the USPS COVID Test Program Matters
The USPS initiative isn’t just about testing — it’s about public health accessibility. Millions of Americans in rural and underserved areas received tests directly to their doorsteps when local pharmacies ran out.
This initiative:
- Reduced hospital strain
- Encouraged early detection
- Supported safer travel and gatherings
- Saved time and money for families
It’s one of the most successful large-scale health logistics programs in U.S. history.
What to Do If Your USPS COVID Test Is Expired
Many users discovered that their free test kits had passed their printed expiration dates. However, the FDA has extended expiration dates for several approved brands after stability testing.
To check if your test is still valid:
- Find the brand name and lot number on your box.
- Visit the FDA’s COVID-19 Test Expiration Date Extensions page.
- Enter the details to confirm the extended date.
Never use tests that are unapproved or damaged.
What If You Never Received Your USPS COVID Test?
If your package hasn’t arrived within two weeks, try these steps:
- Check your email for shipping confirmation.
- Visit USPS.com and enter the tracking number if available.
- Contact USPS customer service at 1-800-ASK-USPS.
- If the issue persists, re-order from special.usps.com/testkits.
Sometimes, delays occur due to address errors or high-volume demand.
Other Ways to Get Free COVID Test Kits
If the USPS program isn’t currently distributing, you can still find free or low-cost options:
- Local health departments
- Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid)
- Community clinics
- Insurance reimbursements (most insurers cover 8 tests per month)
- Federal retail pharmacy partners
Always confirm that the test is FDA-approved and not expired.
Tips for Accurate COVID Test Results
- Store your test kits in a cool, dry place.
- Test within 7 days of symptom onset for best accuracy.
- Avoid eating or drinking 30 minutes before testing.
- Take a second test after 48 hours if your first result is negative but symptoms persist.
These small steps can prevent false results and help detect infection early.
Can Businesses Use USPS COVID Tests?
Yes. While the free test program is for households, businesses and organizations can purchase bulk COVID test kits from authorized suppliers.
Employers are encouraged to provide on-site rapid tests, especially during outbreaks or after exposure events.
However, free USPS test kits are strictly for residential use and cannot be resold.
Are USPS COVID Tests Accurate?
The free test kits provided through USPS are FDA-authorized for emergency use and have shown high accuracy when used correctly.
Typical accuracy rates:
- Positive agreement: 85–90%
- Negative agreement: 97–99%
While PCR tests remain the gold standard, rapid antigen tests are excellent for quick screening and early isolation.
Key Takeaways
- The USPS COVID test program provides free at-home test kits for all U.S. households.
- You can order directly from special.usps.com/testkits.
- Each household receives four tests per order, delivered by mail.
- The kits are FDA-approved, accurate, and easy to use.
- Check the FDA’s website for updated expiration dates.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to receive USPS COVID test kits?
Delivery typically takes 7–10 business days after placing your order.
2. Can I order more than one USPS COVID test kit?
Only one order per residential address per round. New rounds are announced on the USPS website.
3. What should I do if my USPS COVID test shows a positive result?
Isolate immediately, notify close contacts, and follow CDC guidelines. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
Conclusion
The USPS COVID test program has made testing accessible to millions of Americans — a simple click, a short wait, and reliable answers at home. Even as the pandemic phase evolves, having these free tests on hand provides peace of mind, especially during seasonal outbreaks.
If you haven’t yet ordered your free USPS COVID test kits, now is the best time. Visit special.usps.com/testkits, place your order, and stay prepared for whatever comes next.
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