COVID-19 Testing in Maine

At-Home Self Testing

At-home tests use a self-collection process, unless the individual is very young, in which case a parent or guardian can collect the sample.

All steps in these tests are performed at home and require a sample from inside the nose or a saliva sample. 

At-home test results are not reported to Maine CDC, however a positive at-home test should be taken as confirmation of infection. It is not necessary to confirm a positive at-home test with a PCR test.

Individuals who test positive using an at-home test should follow CDC guidance for isolation and inform any close contacts. If you've tested positive with an at-home test, early treatment to prevent severe disease may be available for you. Learn more about treatment options and how to access medicines, even if you're only experiencing mild symptoms. 

In certain situations, at-home tests can be used to rule out infection for the purpose of providing clearance to return to work or school. 

Important information about at-home testing:

• At-home tests are used to detect a current infection.
• All instructions for performing the test must be followed.
• At-home tests can be used by anyone who is symptomatic regardless of their vaccination status.
• Unvaccinated persons with no COVID-19 symptoms can also use at-home tests, especially if they were potentially exposed to someone with COVID-19.
• At-home tests are used to detect a current infection. 
• All instructions for performing the test must be followed.
• At home tests remain stable when stored at various temperature but should only be used at room temperature.
• At-home tests can be used by anyone who is symptomatic regardless of their vaccination status.
• Unvaccinated persons with no COVID-19 symptoms can also use at-home tests, especially if they were potentially exposed to someone with COVID-19.

For more information about the use of at-home COVID-19 tests, please review Maine CDC’s At-Home, Self-Collection Testing Guidance (PDF). 

How can I get an at-home test?

• At-home tests can be purchased over the counter without a prescription at pharmacies, retail stores, or online retailers.
• As of January 15, 2022, those with private insurance can be reimbursed for the cost of up to eight (8) at-home test kits, per covered individual, per month. Contact your health insurance company for more information.
• MaineCare members and parents of children covered by CubCare can obtain free at-home test kits at retail pharmacies that accept MaineCare. To use MaineCare benefits you must check out at the pharmacy counter with proof of MaineCare or CubCare coverage.
• Free at-home test kits are available at most federally qualified health centers. Contact your local health center for more information.
• As of January 19, 2022, households can order three-rounds of free at-home tests directly from the federal government at no cost from covidtests.gov. To order by phone call 1-800-232-0233 or TTY 1-888-720-7489.
• Maine residents are can order one (1) free kit with five (5) at-home rapid tests per household through DHHS’ partnership with The Rockefeller Foundation’s Project Access COVID Tests (Project ACT) program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of test do I need to cross the Canadian border?

• All travelers 5 years of age or older, regardless of citizenship, must provide proof of a COVID-19 negative molecular test (PCR or NAAT test) result to enter Canada OR proof of a previous positive test result taken between 11 and 180 days ago.

• You must take a molecular test within 72 hours of the scheduled departure for air, car, bus boat, ferry, or train travel.

• More information about COVID testing prior to travel to Canada

Will I be charged for a COVID-19 test?

PCR Testing

Sites funded and supported by the State of Maine will not charge the patient or bill insurance for a test, though some sites may still collect insurance information if available.

• These sites are listed in the directory below.

Commercial pharmacy locations conducting PCR testing, such as Walgreens and CVS

• Will bill insurance for those that are insured or submit for reimbursement to Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), a federal program, for those that are uninsured.
• Individuals, regardless of coverage, should not be billed directly for PCR testing.

Independent providers, urgent cares, walk-in clinics, and hospitals

• May charge or bill insurance for COVID-19 testing. Those without insurance may be responsible for any charge not covered by insurance.
• We encourage individuals to ask about cost when making an appointment or upon arrival for testing.

At-home self-collection test kits

• See at-home self-testing guidance above for information on obtaining free at-home testing kits.

Do I need a doctor’s order to get a test?

Individuals who go to a State of Maine supported Swab and Send site or a commercial pharmacy for testing do not need to bring a doctor’s order to get a test.

At-home test kits can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

Individuals who visit other types of testing sites may be required to bring a doctor’s order.

If an individual is symptomatic, they may need to be seen by a provider prior to getting a test. We encourage individuals to ask about the need for a doctor’s order when scheduling an appointment or upon arrival for testing.

What do I do if I test positive for COVID-19?

• Follow CDC guidance for isolation and wear a mask if you must be around other people, even if you are fully vaccinated. Additional information about isolation for COVID-19 positive individuals is available from MaineCDC (PDF).

• Contact your health care provider to discuss options

• Maine people affected by COVID-19 can access free social supports and services including food delivery, income and rent support, and shelter assistance during isolation and quarantine through the DHHS COVID-19 Community Supports Program

• Treatment is available for people with certain medical conditions who are at high risk for severe illness. Contact a health professional right away after a positive test to determine if you may be eligible, even if your symptoms are mild right now.

PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing Sites

The following locations provide PCR and rapid antigen tests performed by a health professional. These sites are open to the public and will not bill you for testing, though many will request insurance information, if available.

This list does not include all sites available, such as pop-up community testing events, urgent care facilities, or primary care providers.

If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or are concerned about an exposure, we encourage you to follow guidance for isolation (PDF), mask around others, and reach out to your primary care provider.

Note: Due to high testing volume at this time the sites listed below are not currently providing testing for travel clearance.