Im really sorry about using this for traffic but Covid PCR test for travelling to US

[BasiliskStare]

So , I have been going round in circles and I am not normally dim - but DH has to go to NY on the 14/2 and needs a Covid19 PCR test no more than one day before ( by which I mean negative result - so test has to be earlier ) - he is busy in meetings so I said I would investigate - I can't find out where I can order one which would be accepted and arrive in time & I have tried . LFT won't do. I have one here but it was for his brother who lives abroad - can't do that.

Sorry to bother anyone but am I missing something obvious here - have been on all BA CDC websites and can't see how to order one to get back in time to do the test & get the result by the 13th. But I may be just not doing it properly.

If anyone can help - I would very much appreciate it . If not - not your problem - so Thanks if anyone can

Have a look at halo verify - they do travel tests

Rapid result test at the airport. There's ones that guarantee results within a few hours, but will need to get to the airport early.

We bought ours at a pharmacy, they are specific for travel

You'll need to go to a clinic for a PCR test with same day results.

Where are you based?

I used Dam Health recently for a Day 2 PCR test after travelling to the UK and an antigen test before leaving again and they were very good. They offer a 3 hour PCR in some of their test centres but not all.

See pic

Are the rules different for New York? We fly into Philadelphia the same week and need an observed Rapid Antigen test the day before flying. We booked through Q-red and have a test and video slot the day before we fly. You can book rapid PCR tests at most airports - all tests must be taken the day before travel and observed by a medical/trained operative.

I've booked a LFT to be taken supervised at Heathrow airport, results back in 40 minutes.

You don't need a PCR for the US, unless New York is different, which I doubt, LFT is fine. Both DH and DD have flown into the US (DD yesterday) on LFTs. It isn't within 24 hours of departure, it's the day before, so any time on the 12th for a flight any time on the 13th. DH got a lateral flow at the airport to fly to Boston just before he checked in, results in 30 minutes.

I believe USA is a supervised LFT, it doesn’t have to be a PCR. You can go to a clinic or do one at home via video link. Look at DocHQ or chromatics.
If you do a PCR, the test needs to be the day before, not just the result.

@Chemenger

You don't need a PCR for the US, unless New York is different, which I doubt, LFT is fine. Both DH and DD have flown into the US (DD yesterday) on LFTs. It isn't within 24 hours of departure, it's the day before, so any time on the 12th for a flight any time on the 13th. DH got a lateral flow at the airport to fly to Boston just before he checked in, results in 30 minutes.

Does this only apply if you are triple vaccinated? We’re going to the US in July and can’t figure out what we need!

Actually, DD arrived in the US today, Los Angeles, on a LFT with no problems. She tested two days ago.

DD is not triple vaccinated (well she is, but only got the third one less than a week ago so it doesn't count).

From the horse's mouth:
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html

You need a LFT, not a PCR. Officially, it is supposed to be observed, but they don't actually care. We all used confirm testing ones for £12.50.

Why is PCR necessary? You’ll struggle to get one the day before travel. We’ve flown into Florida on a LFT but it has to be medically supervised (can be a video call).

Thank you all - don't have time to thank everyone personally but thank you I have some more routes to go down - back soon

You don't need a PCR (DD1 travelled to the US in the summer, and again last month, so we are VERY familiar with the rules!!).

Just a LFT/Rapid Antigen. Cheaper and quicker, because they don't need to be run through a lab - it's basically the little sticks like the ones you do at home.

Can be done anytime in the day before travel (so if you're flying 5pm Friday the test can be anytime Thursday).

But is DOES need to be supervised/face-to-face. Find a clinic nearby you can drop into (we used DAM Health - £29, book online, and results within a couple of hours, they have branches everywhere).

Thank you all - just waiting for DH to come down and see what may be the best option - a zoom LFT test would be great if we can get that sorted out or via Drs etc - Can't tell you all how appreciative I am

I recently did a video LFT with Breathe Assured and it was very good. Have also had an in-person test at an Express Test centre - also fine. Both of these were for USA travel.

Thank you all for your advice - DH reckons he has sorted it now.

I really appreciate all answers - I shamelessly misused AIBU for traffic but time was short. ( & DH does not use me his secretary - just he was on back to back calls & I volunteered to research)

DH is hoping against hope meeting will be cancelled as does not fancy a transatlantic flight having to wear a face mask - but what will be will be - he will do it

Thank you all who took the time to give an answer - it is appreciated

Hi OP. My friend recently travelled to New York and she was able to do an antigen test the day before she flew... is this not an option? We are heading to Vegas next month so I am watching with interest as we will need to arrange a test before we go!

Hi, can I ask about the video supervised test? Do they wait with you 20 min for results or you just send a picture afterwards? I’m alone with a teething toddler so I can’t be on the call for 30 min. Would be grateful for any advice!

The call ends once you've dropped the liquid in and started your timer.

You then have to upload the phone after 15 mins but before 30 mins.

You'll need to register the test in advance on the site (assuming my provider was similar to others) And you'll also need to have a pen and photo ID with you.

Result came though in 45 mins

Rapid antigen test is fine, speaking from personal experience this week. It just needs to be an official certified result. Also, airlines like United and American have dropped their mask requirements for the flights.

Antigen test - not PCR is needed for the US. You can book a video observed test you do at home or get a rapid test at the airport.

at the airport Expect to queue for about 20 minutes before your appointment time and allow for 40 minutes after that to get the result.