The Basics
How Do You Test for HIV?
There are different types of HIV tests. The most common test is a blood test. There are also oral (mouth) HIV tests. In an oral test, you put a pad between your cheek and gum for a few minutes. The results from these HIV tests are usually ready between a few days and 2 weeks.
In many places, you can get a rapid HIV test. Results from rapid tests are ready in 20 to 60 minutes.
To learn more about the different types of HIV tests:
