A confidential HIV test, from R150
Choose a rapid finger-prick test with your result in 20 minutes, or a 4th-generation lab blood test with results in 2 to 3 working days. No fasting and no doctor's referral.
No doctor's referral, no fasting. Private and confidential.
How would you like to get tested?
Book a time
Reserve a slot at your nearest branch online, then walk straight in. Best if you want a guaranteed time.
Book nowWalk in
No appointment needed. Come through any branch, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 16:00.
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Not sure which tests you need? Message us on WhatsApp and we will help you decide.
WhatsApp usTwo ways to test for HIV
Both tests look for HIV and both are confidential. Pick the one that suits your timing.
HIV rapid test
Rapid test, R150. A finger-prick test done at the branch, with your result in 15 to 20 minutes. A result certificate is included, useful for travel or work.
HIV lab test
Lab test, R168. A 4th-generation blood test that detects antibodies and the p24 antigen, accurate from around 2 weeks after exposure. Results in 2 to 3 working days. A reactive result is always confirmed with a second, different test.
Three steps, no GP needed
Book a slot or walk in
Reserve a time at your branch, or walk straight in. No doctor's referral, and no fasting needed.
Quick blood draw
A nurse takes a small blood sample, just a few minutes, in private.
Results in 2 to 3 days
A clear, confidential result within 2 to 3 working days, by email.
Who is this for?
For anyone who wants a confidential HIV result, whether as a routine check or after a possible exposure.
Possible exposure
Unprotected sex, a new partner, or a condom that failed, and you want to know your status.
A routine check
You test regularly as part of looking after your sexual health.
A new relationship
You and a partner want to test together before stopping barrier protection.
Peace of mind
You simply want a confidential, up-to-date result.
Planning ahead
Knowing your status is part of fertility or pregnancy planning.
Travellers and newcomers
Visiting or new to South Africa and want a private test.
What people say
Friendly and competent staff. Both at reception and the nurse. A much simpler process than going through doctors. Thank you ladies.
The staff at reception as well as the nurses are friendly and professional. I've also always received results timeously. I would give 10 stars if I could.
Highly highly highly recommend. The experience was painless and the practice was inviting and well kept. The report was extremely detailed and informative and I would have this as top of my list for preventive care.
Amazing experience, highly professional staff. Very reasonable prices. Highly recommend.
I cannot recommend Juliette and her team enough, friendly and kind from the get go. Bloods were drawn with minimal discomfort and the labs came back quickly.
Excellent experience at Epicentre. The staff were professional, kind, and took time to explain everything clearly. The facility was clean, booking was easy, and I did not feel rushed.
What this does not do
This is a screening blood test. A non-reactive (negative) result is reassuring, but timing matters and serious recent exposures need urgent care.
- There is a window period: a test soon after a possible exposure can miss a recent infection, so a repeat test may be advised. Ask us or your doctor about the right timing.
- If you may have been exposed in the last 72 hours, seek care urgently, as preventive treatment can only be started in a short window. Do not wait for this test.
- A reactive (positive) screening result is always confirmed with a second, different test before it is considered a diagnosis.
- This test looks for HIV only; it does not screen for other sexually transmitted infections. Ask about an STI screen if that is your concern.
Quick answers
Three walk-in labs
Durban
Mon to Fri, 08:30 to 16:00
Johannesburg
Mon to Fri, 08:30 to 16:00
Round out the picture
Medically reviewed by Dr Samantha Naidoo, MB ChB, FCP (SA), Medical Director at Epicentre Walk-In Labs. Reviewed 2 June 2026. Epicentre Aids Risk Management (Pty) Ltd provides diagnostic laboratory testing and does not provide diagnoses, treatment or prescriptions to the public; results are intended to inform discussions with a registered healthcare practitioner.
Know your status, in private
No doctor's referral and no fasting needed, with a confidential result in 2 to 3 working days. Book a slot, walk in, or message us with any questions.