Get Tested!

HIV Testing

The Santa Cruz AIDS Project provides free and anonymous rapid result HIV testing. The test is administered by California State Certified Test Counselors who will walk people through the testing process, the results, and local resources. The rapid test is done through an oral swab - no blood or urine - and only takes 20-25 minutes to develop results, which are given immediately.

The HIV antibody test looks for antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the HIV infection. Most people who become infected develop antibodies within 180 days, or about six months, after infection. This is called the "window" period of the test. Everyone is encouraged to get tested at any point within the six month window period, however a test administered at the three month mark is only 80% accurate, and it is best to get re-tested at the six month mark where test results are 99.9% accurate.

Testing Criteria

Men

  • If you've shared needles
  • If you've had unprotected sex with someone you know to be HIV positive
  • If you've had unprotected anal sex with a male partner
  • If you've been sexually assualted since your last HIV test

Woman

  • If you've shared needles
  • If you've had unprotected sex with someone you know to be HIV positive
  • If you've had unprotected sex with a male partner who injects
  • If you've had unprotected sex with a male partner who has sex with other males
  • If you've been sexually assualted since your last HIV test

If you do not meet these criteria, we can refer you to other local testing sites. Feel free to call for more information!

Locations and Hours

Drop-In Center
412 Front Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060
831-457-1163

Wednesday 3:00PM - 6:00PM

Tribe
1st door to the left of Thrifty Cuts
805A Front Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060
831-427-3900 x.208

Thursday 5:00PM - 8:00PM

Mobile Van
Del Sol Market
Corner of Union and Riverside Drive
Watsonville, California 95076

Wednesday 2:30PM - 4:30PM