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Test Directory
Submitting Specimens to CDC
During an absence of annual appropriations, CDC will continue essential laboratory testing. Testing for urgent public health needs and CLIA reference laboratory services for critical patient specimens will remain available. Though some services may be delayed or unavailable, all specimens received by CDC will be accessioned and stored in their appropriate conditions.
For questions related to submitting specimens for infectious disease testing, please email CDC_ID_lab_info@cdc.gov. For questions related to CDC Specimen Test Order and Reporting (CSTOR), please contact CSTOR@cdc.gov.For questions outside of normal business hours, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100.
Several test orders are currently unavailable. Please click “More Info” for the full list.
CDC’s Infectious Diseases Laboratories accepts specimens from state public health laboratories and other federal agencies for analysis. Specimens from private healthcare providers and institutions should be submitted to the local state health department laboratory (state, county, city) for appropriate processing. The searchable Test Directory features an up-to-date list of orderable tests and provides information on specimen requirements, contact information, test turnaround times, and other supplemental information. Access the directory here or while completing a Specimen Submission Form.
Effective October 27, 2025, an updated directory is available. View the Major Update Summary [PDF – 3 pages] here.
Specimens submitted for testing must be accompanied by CDC Form 50.34.