Getting a test for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the Los Angeles area can be a stressful experience. Many people wonder how long it will take to get tested and get results, how much it will cost, and if the results are private. This resource page was designed to help answer some of those questions for people living in Los Angeles or surrounding communities.
Los Angeles County reports large numbers of STD cases each year. According to county data, over 76,000 cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were reported in 2024. Unfortunately, many infections cause few or no symptoms initially. People who are sexually active in the LA area should not waiting for symptoms to appear (e.g. rash or discharge) if they are concerned about a recent exposure. Instead, they should get screened for a sexually transmitted infection sooner rather than later.
STI testing is available at public STD clinics, community health centers, Planned Parenthood, and with private medical providers in the LA region. Online testing options offer a private, affordable alternative with numerous labs available in Los Angeles. Call ahead for hours, fees, and which tests each site offers.
Here is a list of options for people who want to get tested in and around LA:
Los Angeles STD Testing Options
1. Accesa Labs / online labs
Accesa Labs provides confidential STD testing through numerous labs in the Los Angeles area, including Hollywood, Long Beach, Pasadena, San Fernando Valley, West LA, and many other neighborhoods. Through Accesa Labs, you can get private testing at an affordable price, with or without insurance. Testing takes 15-30 minutes, results are delivered electronically in a few days, and no separate doctor’s order is needed. To learn more or get started, click here.
2. County of Los Angeles Public Health clinics
Los Angeles County operates a number of sexual health clinics that offer testing and treatment. No insurance is needed and payment plans may be available. Services and appointment availability does change so check with the clinic before visiting. To learn more about the county sexual health programs, click here.
3. Planned Parenthood Los Angeles
Multiple health centers across LA County offer STI testing, treatment, and contraception. Good option if you also need pregnancy testing or birth-control care.
4. Community clinics and FQHCs
Networks such as AltaMed, Northeast Valley Health Corporation, JWCH, and neighborhood family clinics often provide sliding-scale STI screening with primary care. Many accept Medi-Cal.
Best for: Ongoing care plus testing, including uninsured and underinsured patients.
5. AIDS Healthcare Foundation and LGBTQ-focused clinics
AHF Wellness Centers and other LGBTQ health programs in Hollywood, Mid-City, and nearby areas often emphasize HIV, syphilis, and extra-genital (throat/rectal) screening. More information can be found here.
6. Urgent care and student health
University students (UCLA, USC, Cal State LA, and others) can also check with their student health clinic first, particularly when symptomatic. Confirm costs ahead of time as university clinics sometimes price screening STD tests differently from walk-in urgent care.
Clinic hours and fees change. People with severe pain, fever, a widespread rash, eye symptoms, or possible pregnancy complications should seek in-person care at an urgent care facility or Emergency Room in Los Angeles.