FAQ: How to get a free COVID-19 test in Wake County

Free COVID-19 tests are available in Raleigh through at least Sept. 12.

Testing will run Sept. 4, Sept. 8 and Sept. 10-12 at the Sunnybrook Building Parking Deck at 2925 Holston Lane in Raleigh. Due to the Labor Day holiday, testing will not take place Sept. 5-Sept. 7.

Appointments are in half-hour intervals from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with 400 testing slots available.

The county will hold more free drive-thru testing in the coming weeks as well.

How to get a test

The service is free, but people must follow a three-step process to claim their spot:

Step 1: Select the time slot and date that works best.

Step 2: Complete this registration form.

Step 3: Print the completed registration form or have it saved on a phone for access at the testing site.

Here are some quick tips you need to know before you go:

Can I show up for a test any time this weekend? No.

Resources are limited, so people must register in order to participate.

If I register, do I need to bring anything? Yes.

Even if you've signed up, you'll need to bring your registration sheet and a form of identification. You can use a driver's license, voter registration card, a passport or even a utility bill.

Will it go quickly? Not necessarily.

Demand for tests is high, so be prepared to wait in a line when you show up to take the test.

How long do I have to wait until I get my results? According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, you could get your test back in as soon as two days now.

Back in July some people were waiting to get tested for up to a week or even longer. Now, health officials said it's a lot quicker.

If you test positive, someone will call you. If you don't have the virus, you won't receive a call.

"It's a pretty smooth process," said WRAL reporter Kasey Cunningham, who has been tested at this site.

From June 1 to August 22, more than 16,000 tests have been administered at the parking deck. About 5% of these tests have come back positive, state health officials said.

If you have any questions or need help registering, call 919-856-7044 or email covid19.questions@wakegov.com.