As the holiday season approaches, many people may be planning to travel. Whether you are going domestically or internationally, it’s important to be aware of COVID testing for travel. Keep your loved ones safe this holiday by getting a COVID test before you travel at AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst.

Continue reading to get some of your frequently asked questions about COVID testing for travel answered.

Do I Need a Test for International Travel?

Regardless of your vaccination status, you need to receive a negative COVID test before boarding an airplane for international travel. If you have recovered from COVID within three months, you may be able to travel with documentation of your positive status within 90 days and a test from your healthcare provider, clearing you for travel.

What if I’m Fully Vaccinated?

Regardless of vaccination status, you need a negative COVID test to fly internationally. However, vaccinated people can show proof of a negative test within three days of the flight.

If you are not fully vaccinated, you must receive a negative test within one day of the flight.

What is Considered “Fully Vaccinated?”

You are considered fully vaccinated at least 14 days after an approved single-dose vaccine or 14 days after your second shot.

Fully vaccinated is also considered if it has been 14 days since you received two shots of any two approved vaccines.

What Do I Need to Return to the United States?

In order to return to the United States, you need all of the exact requirements as above. This is applied to all individuals age two years and older. This includes a negative test within three days for fully vaccinated individuals or a negative test within one day for those unvaccinated.

Additional Information

It is your responsibility to check the requirements of the country or state you are traveling to. Not all countries have the exact requirements as the United States.

If you do not show proof of vaccination or a negative test result in the allotted timeframe, the airline may not allow you to board. The CDC recommends delaying any travel until you can receive a negative test or you can be fully vaccinated.

What About Domestic Travel?

For those traveling within the United States, receiving a negative COVID test within 1-3 days is still recommended if you are unvaccinated. For those who are vaccinated, wear your mask when in the airports and onboard, and follow all local and state guidelines. Be sure to monitor yourself for symptoms once you arrive.

For those who are unvaccinated, it is still required to wear a mask and follow all local and state guidelines. Receive a COVID test within 3-5 days of arrival, and be sure to self-quarantine for at least seven days to monitor for symptoms. If you do not get tested, stay home and quarantine for at least ten days.

AFC Lyndhurst provides COVID testing for travel for those leaving New Jersey and for those entering. Visit our center to get tested today.