Several private labs across Nashville offer same-day testing without appointments. Quest Diagnostics and LabCorp locations accept walk-ins throughout Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and the surrounding suburbs. Priority STD Testing is another solid choice. You can order online and visit a partner lab the same day. Results typically return within 1-3 business days, depending on the test.
Locations in Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Hendersonville are usually less crowded than downtown Nashville facilities, especially during weekday business hours. Quest and LabCorp locations in these areas tend to move faster. Just remember to call ahead or check online wait times to find the quickest option that day.
Most private labs take walk-ins, no appointment needed. Quest Diagnostics and LabCorp patient service centers throughout the metro let you walk in during business hours with a test order (you can get one online through services like Priority). Some urgent care centers also offer walk-in STD testing, though it’s smart to call ahead and confirm they have the specific tests you need.
Yes. You have several options for free or low-cost testing. The Metro Public Health Department’s Nashville Sexual Health Clinic provides testing based on what you can afford (which might be free if you’re uninsured or have a low income.) Planned Parenthood uses a sliding scale fee structure. Nashville CARES offers free HIV testing regularly. Community health centers throughout the metro provide services on a sliding scale, and county health departments in surrounding areas also offer affordable testing to residents.
It depends on where you go and what you’re testing for. Private labs like Quest and LabCorp usually deliver results within 1-3 business days for common bacterial infections and HIV tests. Public health departments may take 1-2 weeks depending on their lab processing schedules. At-home testing kits typically provide results within 2-5 days after the lab receives your sample. Some rapid HIV tests available at community testing events can give you results in as little as 20 minutes.
Nope. Private labs accept direct payment, no insurance required. At-home testing kits are purchased directly online. Public health clinics and community centers serve uninsured patients with sliding-scale fees or free testing. If you do have insurance, many plans cover routine STD screening, but just know that using insurance creates a record on your insurance statements and may require looping in your primary care physician.
If privacy is your top concern, private testing through services like Priority or at-home testing kits offers the most discretion. Your results go straight to you, and nothing is shared with insurance companies or your regular doctors. Public health clinics provide confidential testing, meaning your information is protected by privacy laws but is recorded in their system. True anonymous testing (where you use a code number instead of your name) may be available at certain community testing events or through some HIV testing programs.
Public vs Private STD Testing in Nashville Metro Area
| Features | Private Labs | Public Clinics |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50–$400+ (fixed pricing) | Free–$25 (sliding scale based on income) |
| Speed | Same day–3 days (fast service) | 2–7 days (longer wait times) |
| Appointments | Walk-ins accepted at most locations | Usually required; may wait days or weeks |
| Insurance | Most insurance plans accepted | Medicaid and some plans accepted |
| Privacy | Confidential; can pay out-of-pocket without insurance records | Confidential but may require detailed intake |
| Treatment | Testing and results; some locations offer treatment, others provide prescription referral | On-site treatment, education, and ongoing care |
| Best For | Those prioritizing speed, convenience, and privacy with flexible walk-in options | Those needing affordable care, without insurance, or seeking comprehensive ongoing support |