A rapid HIV test is a test that usually produces results in 5 to 30 minutes. In comparison, results from the commonly used HIV-antibody screening test, the EIA, are not available for 1-2 weeks.

The rapid HIV test is considered to be just as accurate as the EIA. As is true for all screening tests (including the EIA), a positive test result must be confirmed before a diagnosis of infection can be given. There are several new rapid tests currently being researched for possible use.

Both the rapid test and the EIA look for the presence of antibodies to HIV. As is true for all screening tests (including the EIA), a reactive rapid HIV test result must be confirmed before a diagnosis of infection can be given.