How to Schedule a TB Test at Walgreens

Booking a TB skin test at Walgreens

You can schedule a TB test (tuberculosis skin test, also called a Mantoux test) at most Walgreens locations through their online appointment system or by calling your local store's pharmacy. The test itself takes about five minutes — a nurse injects a small amount of fluid under your skin on your forearm — but you'll need to return 48 to 72 hours later so the nurse can read the results. Walgreens offers this service at many locations, though availability varies by store and region.

To book online, go to Walgreens.com, select "Pharmacy Services," then look for "Immunizations & Tests" or "TB Test." You'll enter your zip code to find nearby stores that offer the service, pick a date and time for your first appointment, and answer basic health questions. If you prefer to call, ask for the pharmacy department at your local Walgreens and request a TB test appointment. Have your insurance card ready if you have one, though the test is often covered under preventive care.

Key Takeaways

• A TB test at Walgreens requires two separate visits: one for the injection and one 48 to 72 hours later to read the results.
• You can book online through Walgreens.com under Pharmacy Services or call your local store's pharmacy directly.
• Bring your insurance card and a photo ID; the injection itself takes about five minutes.
• If you're allergic to latex, tell the nurse before the test so they can use a latex-free needle.
• Results are read in person at your second appointment, and your nurse will explain what the reaction means.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring your insurance card and a government-issued photo ID to both appointments. If you don't have insurance, Walgreens can still perform the test; ask about the out-of-pocket cost when you book. Wear loose, short-sleeved clothing or clothing you can roll up easily, since the injection goes on your inner forearm and the nurse needs clear access to that area.

There's no fasting or special preparation needed before a TB test. You can eat, drink, and take your regular medications as normal. If you're taking any immunosuppressant medications (drugs that weaken your immune system), mention this when you book, because it can affect how your body reacts to the test. Similarly, if you've had a live vaccine in the past four weeks — like the MMR or varicella vaccine — tell the nurse, as this can interfere with TB test results.

What happens during your first appointment

When you arrive, the nurse will review your health history and ask whether you've ever had a TB test before, whether you've been exposed to tuberculosis, and whether you have any latex allergies. They'll clean a small area on your inner forearm with an alcohol wipe and let it dry completely. Then they'll inject a tiny amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) just under the surface of your skin — you'll feel a small prick and see a pale bump (called a wheal) appear where the needle went in.

The whole process takes about five minutes. You'll receive a card or appointment confirmation with the date and time you need to return for the reading. Write this down or set a phone reminder, because missing your reading appointment means you'll have to start the test over. The injection site may itch slightly over the next day or two, but you can wash it normally and apply lotion if needed. Do not scratch or cover the injection site with a bandage.

Understanding your results at the second appointment

At your second appointment, the nurse will look at your forearm and measure any swelling (induration) around the injection site using a ruler. They're measuring the raised, hardened area, not any redness. The size of this swelling — measured in millimeters — determines whether the result is negative, positive, or uncertain. A negative result means no swelling or very minimal swelling (less than 5 mm in most cases). A positive result means there is swelling of 5 mm or more, which suggests you may have been exposed to tuberculosis or have the infection.

Your nurse will explain your result and may recommend next steps. A positive TB test does not automatically mean you have active tuberculosis disease — it means your immune system has been exposed to the bacteria. Your doctor may order a chest X-ray or other tests to determine whether you have latent TB infection (dormant) or active TB disease (contagious). The nurse will give you a written result and may send it to your doctor's office if you've authorized that.

When Walgreens TB tests may not be available

Not every Walgreens location offers TB testing, and availability can change seasonally or based on staffing. If the store you selected during booking later cancels the appointment, Walgreens will contact you to reschedule at a different location or time. Some rural areas or smaller stores may not have the service at all. If your nearest Walgreens doesn't offer TB tests, ask the pharmacy staff whether they can refer you to a nearby clinic or urgent care center that does.

If you need a TB test urgently — for example, because you're starting a new job and your employer requires it by a specific date — call ahead to confirm the store has availability for both appointments within your timeframe. Some stores book up quickly during back-to-school season or when local health departments recommend testing.

Cost and insurance coverage

Most insurance plans cover TB tests as preventive care with no out-of-pocket cost to you. Medicare and Medicaid typically cover the test as well. If you're uninsured, the cost varies by location but generally ranges from $15 to $50 for both appointments combined. Ask about the exact price when you book so there are no surprises at checkout.

Some employers or schools require TB testing and may reimburse you for the cost. Keep your receipt and the written result from Walgreens — you'll need both to submit for reimbursement. If cost is a barrier, ask whether your local health department offers free or low-cost TB testing, as many do.

What to do if you miss your second appointment

If you miss your reading appointment, the test is no longer valid and you'll need to start over with a new injection. The timing matters because the nurse must read the results between 48 and 72 hours after the injection — reading it too early or too late gives inaccurate results. If you know you'll miss your appointment, call Walgreens as soon as possible to reschedule. Most stores can fit you in within a day or two if you call ahead.

If you've already missed the window, don't worry — you can book a new TB test appointment right away. There's no waiting period between tests, so you can schedule your next injection for the same day or the next day if the store has availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a TB test if I'm pregnant?

Yes, the TB skin test is safe during pregnancy. The test uses a very small amount of inactivated protein and does not contain any live virus. If you're pregnant, mention this when you book so the nurse knows. You should not receive certain live vaccines while pregnant, but the TB test is not a vaccine and poses no risk to you or your baby.

What if I have a reaction or swelling at the injection site before my second appointment?

Some mild itching or slight swelling in the first 24 hours is normal. Do not scratch the area. If you develop severe swelling, blistering, or signs of infection (warmth, pus, or spreading redness), contact Walgreens or your doctor. These reactions are rare but should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Do I need a doctor's order to get a TB test at Walgreens?

No, you do not need a doctor's order. TB tests are available as a walk-in or scheduled service at Walgreens pharmacies. However, if your doctor has recommended the test, bring that information with you so the nurse can note it in your record.

What if my TB test is positive — what happens next?

A positive TB test means you've been exposed to tuberculosis bacteria, but it doesn't automatically mean you have active disease. Your doctor will likely order a chest X-ray and may ask about your symptoms and exposure history. Based on those results, they'll determine whether you need treatment for latent TB infection or further evaluation for active TB disease.

Can I shower or bathe between my two appointments?

Yes, you can shower and bathe normally. Just avoid scrubbing the injection site directly, and don't cover it with a bandage or tape. Wash gently around it and pat dry. You can apply lotion or moisturizer if the area feels dry or itchy.