Not sure where to go to find a HIV testing center near you? Visit our testing center locator to find a location near you.

When you call to make an appointment, be sure to say that you want to get tested for HIV. When you call, you can also ask how much the test will cost. There are many places that offer free or low-cost testing.

Questions pop into your head at random times. So think through any questions you might have, write them down, and bring the list with you.

Show up.

Bring along your friend, sister, or bf/gf if you feel nervous

Health care providers don't always bring up getting tested for HIV. So don't assume that if they don't bring it up that you've already been tested. The only way to know is to ask to be tested

So, sometimes it's on YOU to ask. You may feel a little nervous or embarrassed to ask to be tested for HIV- That's okay, a lot of people do. Many people find that once they've brought it up and gotten past those first nervous moments, they feel a lot more comffortable discussing it with their provider.

HIV testing is very common, so this is nothing new to your health care provider. They should be doing this every day. So spit it out however you can. You can say that...

You heard doctors are supposed to be testing people regularly for HIV. Why have I never been tested?

You've heard that people your age are supposed to be tested regularly for HIV. It is something you want to do for your health.

A friend of yours was recently tested, and you want to know if it's something you should do as well.

You are doing the right thing. Asking to be tested shows that you are taking care of your health.