This page tells you where, when and how to get tested for COVID-19 in Berlin. It is updated when there is new information.

Where can I get tested for coronavirus in Berlin?

There are now hundreds of test locations. You can get tested there for free. Use the official map of test locations on Berlin.de.

What types of coronavirus tests are available?

There are 3 types of coronavirus tests in Berlin1.

  • PCR test (PCR-Abstrichtest or Labortest)
    This is the standard test. The test is send to a laboratory, and the results come a few days later. It is slower, but more reliable. It is better at detecting coronavirus1.
  • Rapid Antigen Test (Schnelltest)
    This test gives results in a few minutes1. It is cheaper and faster, but it's not as reliable as PCR tests. It might not detect that you are infected, especially in the first week after you were infected1. You can use a rapid antigen test to get out of quarantine, or before visiting a business or event that requires a test.
  • Antibody test (Antikörper-Test)
    This only tells you if you had coronavirus before.

Which tests are accepted?

If you travel to Germany, you can use a PCR or rapid antigen test1, 2. Antibodies test are not accepted.

If you want to leave quarantine after 5 days, you can use a PCR or rapid antigen tests. The rules can be different in each German state.

When will I get my test results?

With a PCR test, you will get results in 1 or 2 days.

With a rapid antigen test, you will get a result in around 20 minutes.

How much does a test cost?

There are now many free test locations in Berlin. You can get tested once per day for free1. You will get a rapid antigen test.

Otherwise, if you get a PCR test and...

  • ...you have coronavirus symptoms
    The PCR test is free. Your health insurance pays for it.
  • ...you travel from a risk area
    You must pay for your PCR test.
  • ...your family doctor prescribes a test
    The test is free. Your health insurance pays for it1.
  • ...you do not travel from a risk area and you do not have coronavirus symptoms
    You must pay for your test1. PCR tests cost 69€1 at the official testing centres. The cheapest PCR test is 49€.

Testing requirements for travellers

You can find more details about the testing requirements on Berlin.de. This is the official website of the city of Berlin.

    Testing requirements for residents

    The requirements change often. You can find more information about testing on Berlin.de. This is the official website of the city of Berlin.

    Testing facilities - Berlin.de ➞

    Testing requirements at the Bürgeramt

    You do not need a negative test to visit the Bürgeramt.