How Much Does a Private STI Test Cost in the UK?
Last updated 29 September 2026
NHS sexual health clinics test for free, but appointments in many areas book out fast, and some people simply prefer the privacy and speed of going private: book today, tested tomorrow, results in a couple of days, nothing on your NHS record unless you choose to share it. The price spread is huge, though, because "an STI test" ranges from one swab to a comprehensive 10-infection screen.
Quick answer: a private STI test in the UK costs anywhere from £15 for a single test to £590 for a comprehensive screen. Most clinics charge £90 to £250 for a standard multi-infection screen covering chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, and syphilis.
What affects the price
- Single test vs. full screen. One chlamydia test is cheap; a screen covering 7 to 10 infections costs several times more.
- Which infections. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (urine/swab) are the cheapest to test; blood-based tests like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis add more.
- Turnaround. Standard results take 1 to 3 days; same-day or rapid results usually cost extra.
- Consultation included. Screens that include a doctor consultation (and treatment if needed) cost more than lab-only testing.
- Window periods. Testing too early after exposure may mean a retest. A good clinic will advise the right timing rather than just selling you the biggest panel.
What clinics are currently charging
Based on clinics listed on Keystone (checked 2026-08-28):
| Price | Notes |
|---|---|
| £15 to £30 | Lowest published prices, single tests |
| £90 to £250 | Where most clinics sit for a standard multi-infection screen |
| £295 to £590 | Comprehensive screens, often with same-day results and consultation |
That range comes from more than 30 clinics with a published price; others quote based on which tests you need.
NHS vs private STI testing
| NHS | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free, including treatment | Roughly £15 to £590 depending on the screen |
| Getting tested | Sexual health clinic appointment or free postal kits in many areas | Book directly, often same-day |
| Results | Usually within 1 to 2 weeks | Usually 1 to 3 days, same-day available |
| Privacy | Confidential, kept on sexual health records | Confidential, nothing shared unless you choose |
If you have symptoms or a known exposure, the NHS route is free and clinically excellent. The private advantage is mostly speed, choice of appointment, and discretion.
Cheapest clinics for STI testing
The lowest published prices we list. Check what each price includes before you book.
| Clinic | Area | STI test |
|---|---|---|
| City | London EC2M | £25 |
| Nomad Travel Clinic | BS1 | £25 |
| DocTap Private GP (Liverpool St) | London EC2N | from £29 |
| DocTap Private GP Canary Wharf | London E14 | from £29 |
| DocTap Private GP Clapham | London SW4 | from £29 |
| SF Screening & Vaccination Service | LS6 | £30 |
| Private Sexual Health Clinic | London SW7 | from £35 |
| Harley Street Dr | London W1G | from £44 |
Best rated clinics for STI testing
Highest Google ratings among clinics with at least 20 reviews.
| Clinic | Area | STI test | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clarewell Clinics (private sexual health clinic) | B18 | £150 | 5.0 (179) |
| Medical Health Limited | London EC1N | from £50 | 5.0 (179) |
| TGQ Medical | London N20 | £249 | 5.0 (115) |
| Greenwich Private Doctors | London SE10 | £150 | 5.0 (60) |
| The Scan Clinic | London IG2 | £99 | 4.9 (1308) |
| The Leeds Clinic | LS8 | £95 | 4.9 (435) |
Compare sexual health clinics near you
The same standard screen can vary by over £100 between clinics. Search your postcode on Keystone to see sexual health clinics near you, ranked by distance, price, and patient rating, and book directly.
Curious what clinics near you actually charge? Compare real prices, distances and ratings.
Compare STI test clinics near you →Frequently asked questions
How much is a private STI test UK?
Based on clinics currently listed on Keystone, from about £15 for a single test up to £590 for a comprehensive screen, with most standard multi-infection screens at £90 to £250.
How soon after exposure can I get tested?
It varies by infection: chlamydia and gonorrhoea are reliable from about 2 weeks after exposure, HIV from 4 to 6 weeks with modern lab tests, syphilis from about 3 weeks. Test earlier if you have symptoms, but expect a confirmatory retest.
Will a private STI test show on my medical records?
No. Private test results stay with the private clinic unless you ask for them to be shared with your GP. Treatment prescribed privately also stays private.
What happens if a private test comes back positive?
The clinic will talk you through treatment. Many treat on-site or prescribe directly, and anything they can't handle gets referred. You can also take a positive result to a free NHS sexual health clinic for treatment.
