COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests show the result on the testing device.
What your COVID-19 test results means
Positive test result
If you get a positive result, it means it’s very likely you have COVID-19.
Try to stay home and avoid contact with other people for:
- 3 days if you are under 18 years
- 5 days if you are 18 or over
Get advice about how to look after yourself at home if you have COVID-19 or symptoms
If you're eligible for COVID-19 treatments and you get a positive result, you must report your result so the NHS can contact you about treatment.
Find out more about treatments for COVID-19
Negative test result
If you get a negative result, it means it's unlikely you have COVID-19.
There's still a chance you could have the virus, so you should follow the advice on how to avoid catching and spreading COVID-19.
If you’re eligible for COVID-19 treatments and you get a negative result, you must report your result as you may need to do another test.
Find out more about treatments for COVID-19
Test result could not be read
If your test result could not be read (some tests may call this a void result), it’s not possible to say if you had COVID-19 when the test was done.
Do another test as soon as possible.
If you’re eligible for COVID-19 treatments and you get a void result, you must report your result.
How to report an NHS COVID-19 rapid lateral flow test result
You must report your free NHS COVID-19 rapid lateral flow test results on GOV.UK.
You can only report free NHS COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests, not ones you have paid for.
You need to report your result within 24 hours of getting it.
If you need help to report your test result
If you cannot use the online service to report an NHS test result, call 119 for free.
Lines are open:
- Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
- Saturday 9am to 1pm
- Closed on Sunday and bank holidays
119 provides support in 200 languages.
SignVideo is a free online British Sign Language interpreter service for 119.
You can use the free Be My Eyes app to get help from trained NHS Test and Trace staff. Download the app, go to Specialized Help and select NHS Test & Trace in the Personal Health category.
If you’re going into hospital for a procedure
If you did the test because you're going into hospital for a procedure, contact the hospital as soon as you get your result to find out what to do.
You should contact the hospital whatever the result is.