Minnesotans Can Order Rapid COVID-19 Tests Online Tuesday

ST. PAUL, MN — Gov. Tim Walz Monday announced a new program that will allow Minnesotans to order free rapid COVID-19 tests online for delivery directly to their homes.

Starting Tuesday, Minnesotans can order test kits using the online order program. Each kit comes with two rapid COVID-19 tests. The tests provide results in minutes.

Minnesota has secured 500,000 kits, and the program will run while supplies last. Order a test here.

"Our goal has always been to ensure that when Minnesotans need a test, they can get one quickly and easily," Walz said in a news release. "Even as case numbers decline, it’s important that Minnesotans test for COVID-19 if they are feeling sick. That’s why we’re continuing to work to make tests easily accessible – now and in the future."

The Vault at-home testing program will end on Dec. 31

In the early days of the pandemic, the state of Minnesota pioneered a unique at-home PCR testing program that was free for all Minnesotans.

However, demand for Vault at-home tests — which are mailed to residents and have to be mailed back for results — has declined significantly.

According to Walz's office, Vault delivered around 1,400 tests to Minnesotans last week, which is down from over 16,600 tests per week in January.

"Sunsetting the at-home testing program will the state to focus on providing other forms of testing," Walz's office said.