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COVID-19 Testing & Travel

March 23, 2021 | COVID-19
Picture is aware of travel requirements and restrictions for certain destinations. This post aims to outline how our test fits with those requirements. Please note that we in no way represent or speak for the entities enforcing these requirements. We only aim to provide information about our tests that may help you in following the set guidelines.

Does your test meet the requirements for the destination I’m traveling to?
The Picture Genetics COVID-19 at-home test is a PCR test. PCR tests sometimes go by other names, so please note that this test may be called a PCR test, an RT-PCR test, a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), or a molecular test. All are correct in this case. This test has also received Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA. This should meet most requirements, but please check with the destination you’re traveling to to be sure.

Can I order your test even if I don’t have symptoms?
Yes, that’s not a problem. Our eligibility screener will ask questions about your symptoms and exposure, but answering that you have no symptoms and no exposure will not prevent you from proceeding to the order process at this time.

Can I get tests for my whole family if we’re all traveling?
It’s very important for each person taking a test to have their own user account with Picture Genetics. This is in accordance with HIPAA and our privacy guidelines. However, each person in your family may have their kit delivered to the same address. There are no restrictions for the number of tests per household.

It’s also important to note that this test is not currently available for children under the age of 4 years. We understand that this may be an inconvenience and are working on providing testing options for children ages 0-3 in the future. Additionally, the individual placing the order must be at least 18 years old.

How are results sent to me?
You will receive an email notification when your results are ready, and you’ll be able to view your results in your secure Picture account portal. They will be provided as a PDF.

What dates are shown on your reports?
Currently, our reports include your sample collection date and time, the date that we receive your sample, the date the test is authorized (typically the same day as sample receipt), and the date the report is finalized. A time stamp is included with the collection date.

Can you change the date on my report?
No. The dates and/or times listed on each report are final. Changes cannot be made to accommodate travel dates, as the dates reported reflect the true and accurate timing for each test.

Will I receive my results in time?
While we cannot guarantee the receipt of results by a particular time, we can provide rough guidance. In general, we use FedEx 2-day shipping for outbound kits, meaning your kit will take about 2 business days to arrive at your door. Overnight outbound shipping is also available for an additional fee. We recommend ordering your kit well in advance when possible, as shipping times may vary.

When you're ready to use your kit, be sure to activate it online, collect your sample, and send it back to us on the same day. Avoid doing so on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (check FedEx operating hours for best results). Kits are overnighted back to our lab, and are received Monday through Saturday. Once your sample is received at our lab, reports are generally available within 48 hours.


What if I don’t receive my results in time for my flight?
Timing on these tests is very tight, and it can be difficult to achieve sample collection and report send-out within the 72-hour period required by some destinations. It is our understanding that for some destinations, travelers whose tests are in progress, but who do not have their results yet, may still travel to their destination but must quarantine until they receive and submit their results. (This will vary by destination so please check accordingly.)

We do provide multiple emails throughout the testing process which may serve as proof that your test is in progress, including an order confirmation email, a kit shipment confirmation email, and an email stating that we have received your sample and will begin processing.

At this time we are unable to provide for expedited testing or other special cases.

What if I have more questions?
If your question concerns our test, please reach out to us at hello@picturegenetics.com.
If you have questions about your destination’s travel requirements, we recommend that you contact them directly.


To purchase our COVID-19 test, visit picturegenetics.com/covid19.