There are different routes for booking a Coronavirus test. All are available to people showing symptoms.
If you're showing symptoms, read the information below to find the right route for your circumstances.
Please note this type of test is to check whether you are currently infected with Coronavirus. It does not diagnose if you have had the virus in the past.
If you are not showing symptoms and cannot work from home. Please visit Surrey County Council's webpage about how to book a symptom-free Coronavirus test.
Physical symptoms which should be tested for Coronavirus
The key symptoms of Coronavirus are:
- a high temperature
- a new continuous cough
- a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
If you are experiencing one or more of the above, you need to get the test done in the first five days of having symptoms.
Read more about other Coronavirus symptoms
Find out about the Coronavirus testing process
Testing for the general public showing symptoms
Anyone who has symptoms of Coronavirus, whatever their age, should book a test immediately.
It’s important to book a test within the first FIVE days of having symptoms.
You can choose to book a test at local testing unit, which are managed via a drive-through or walk-through process. Or, you can apply to receive a home testing kit through the post.
Local testing units within the borough are located on selected dates at Woking Park Car Park, Sheerwater Recreation Ground Car Park, Goldsworth Recreation Car Park and Lansbury Business Estate. Subject to availability, all or some of these sites will be offered as part of the booking process.
To get tested, you must pre-book a home testing kit or appointment via the NHS.
Testing for essential workers showing symptoms
Essential workers who have Coronavirus symptoms can be prioritised for testing. Essential workers are those outlined in the Government's list of essential workers prioritised for testing.
Check if you're job function is listed as an essential worker
Testing for care homes residents and staff
A new digital portal for care homes is now available to enable care homes to access coronavirus test kits. If a care home provides a service for older people (aged 65 plus) or a service for those with dementia it can now register for testing of the whole care home. This includes all residents and asymptomatic staff, including agency staff. This can be done through the Government's new portal for care homes.
Find out more and apply for tests for care homes
Self-isolation payments
It is a legal requirement for people to self-isolate when instructed to by NHS Test and Trace.
If you have been told by NHS Test and Trace to stay at home and self-isolate, you may be entitled to a one-off support payment of £500.
If you're on a low income this could help you to self-isolate without having to worry about your finances.
This payment is subject to tax. If you receive the support payment you will not be taxed on it straight away, but will be contacted by HMRC at a later date.
Find out more about applying for a self-isolation payment