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Tick Testing Services

Get your tick tested for Lyme disease and other tick-borne pathogens

🔬 Why Test a Tick?
Testing the tick that bit you can provide early warning of infection—often before symptoms appear. If the tick tests positive, your doctor can consider prophylactic treatment.

Top Tick Testing Labs

We recommend these accredited labs based on accuracy, speed, and price:

1

TickCheck (Recommended)

★★★★★ 4.8/5 (2,000+ reviews)
$50 - $200

The most popular tick testing service in the US. Fast 1-3 day results with DNA-based PCR testing. Tests for Lyme, Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, and more.

  • DNA PCR testing (most accurate)
  • Results in 1-3 business days
  • Tests for 10+ pathogens
  • Free tick identification
  • Doctor consultation available
Get Your Tick Tested →
2

TickReport (UMass)

★★★★★ 4.7/5
$50 - $200

University of Massachusetts Amherst's tick testing laboratory. Academic-quality PCR testing with detailed pathogen reports.

  • University laboratory standards
  • PCR molecular testing
  • Detailed pathogen report
  • Research-backed protocols
Visit TickReport →
3

IGeneX Laboratory

★★★★☆ 4.5/5
$75 - $300

Specialized Lyme disease laboratory offering the most comprehensive tick-borne disease testing. Preferred by Lyme-literate doctors.

  • Most comprehensive panel
  • Tests for rare co-infections
  • ImmunoBlot technology
  • CLIA-certified laboratory
Visit IGeneX →

When Should You Test a Tick?

Consider testing if:
  • The tick was attached for more than 24 hours
  • The tick was engorged (swollen with blood)
  • You live in a high-risk area like the Hudson Valley
  • You want peace of mind before waiting for symptoms
  • You're considering prophylactic antibiotics

What Pathogens Can Be Tested?

How to Submit a Tick for Testing

  1. Remove the tick carefully - Use fine-tipped tweezers, grasp close to the skin, pull straight up
  2. Save the tick - Place in a sealed plastic bag or small container
  3. Keep it moist - Add a damp cotton ball or paper towel (don't submerge)
  4. Store properly - Refrigerate if mailing within 72 hours; freeze if longer
  5. Order your test kit - Labs provide prepaid mailers and instructions
  6. Mail the tick - Use the provided packaging and send via regular mail
  7. Get results - Typically 1-3 business days after the lab receives your tick
⚠️ Important: Tick testing tells you what the tick was carrying—not whether you were infected. A positive result means the tick could have transmitted disease. A negative result doesn't guarantee you're safe. Always monitor for symptoms and consult a doctor.

Understanding Your Results

If the Tick Tests Positive

If the Tick Tests Negative

Free Tick Identification

Not sure what kind of tick bit you? Many labs offer free tick identification. You can also use these resources:

Common Hudson Valley Ticks

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get a tick tested after a bite?

Testing a tick can provide peace of mind and early warning. If the tick tests positive, you can discuss prophylactic treatment with your doctor before symptoms appear.

How much does tick testing cost?

Basic tick testing costs $50-75 for Lyme disease only. Comprehensive panels testing for multiple pathogens cost $150-200.

How long does tick testing take?

Most labs return results within 1-3 business days after receiving your tick sample.

Can you test a dead tick?

Yes, dead ticks can be tested as long as they are relatively intact and not decomposed. Place the tick in a sealed bag or container.

Quick Action Guide

  1. Remove and save the tick
  2. Take a photo for identification
  3. Order a test kit from TickCheck
  4. Mail the tick using the prepaid packaging
  5. Get results in 1-3 days
  6. Share results with your doctor