How to Test Testosterone Levels:

If you want to know your testosterone level, the most reliable method is a blood test analyzed by a laboratory. A healthcare provider may order a total testosterone test, and in some situations a free testosterone or related hormone tests may also be appropriate. For men being evaluated for low testosterone, testing is generally performed in the early morning because testosterone levels fluctuate during the day.

At-home testosterone testing is also available through some services, usually involving a finger-prick blood sample or another collection method that is sent to a laboratory. However, an at-home result should not be used by itself to diagnose a hormone disorder. An unexpected or abnormal result may need confirmation with properly timed laboratory testing and clinical evaluation.

Quick Answer: How Do You Test Testosterone Levels?

The standard way to test testosterone levels is with a blood test.

The basic process is:

1. Talk with a healthcare provider about your symptoms or reason for testing.
2. Have the appropriate testosterone blood test ordered.
3. Have your blood collected, preferably in the morning when testing for suspected low testosterone.
4. The laboratory measures testosterone in the sample.
5. Your provider interprets the result using your age, sex, symptoms, medical history, medications and the laboratory’s reference range.
6. If a result is unexpectedly low, additional or repeat testing may be recommended.

For men being evaluated for testosterone deficiency, clinical guidelines emphasize that diagnosis should not be based on symptoms or a single low test alone. The Endocrine Society recommends confirming consistently low testosterone with repeat morning testing in appropriate patients.

What Is a Testosterone Test?

A testosterone test measures the amount of testosterone in a biological sample, most commonly blood.

Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily by the testicles in males and the ovaries in females, with smaller amounts also produced by the adrenal glands. It plays roles in sexual development, reproductive function, libido, muscle and bone health and other body processes.

In the bloodstream, testosterone exists in different forms. Some testosterone is attached to proteins such as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin, while another portion circulates as free testosterone.

This is why a testosterone evaluation may involve more than simply asking for one number.

What Blood Test Checks Testosterone?

There are several ways testosterone can be measured.

1. Total Testosterone

A total testosterone test measures testosterone in both its bound and unbound forms.

It is generally the starting test when a healthcare professional is evaluating testosterone levels, particularly in men with symptoms that could indicate testosterone deficiency.

2. Free Testosterone

Free testosterone refers to testosterone that is not attached to proteins.

Because free testosterone is biologically available to tissues, measuring it can sometimes provide additional information when total testosterone does not clearly explain a person’s clinical picture.

Free testosterone testing can be more technically challenging than total testosterone testing, so the method used by the laboratory matters.

3. Bioavailable Testosterone

Bioavailable testosterone generally refers to free testosterone plus testosterone that is loosely bound to proteins other than SHBG.

It is not ordered as commonly as total testosterone, but it may be considered in certain clinical situations.

Testosterone testing at a glance

What Is the Best Way to Test Testosterone Levels?

For evaluating a possible testosterone disorder, a properly performed laboratory blood test ordered or interpreted by a healthcare professional is generally the most useful approach.

The reason is that testosterone levels can vary based on:

• Time of day
• Age
• Sex
• Illness
• Medications
• Body composition
• Sleep
• Laboratory method
• Other hormone conditions

A healthcare provider can also decide whether you need additional testing rather than looking at testosterone in isolation.

For suspected testosterone deficiency in men, the Endocrine Society recommends accurate testosterone measurements and confirmation of consistently low levels with repeat morning testing.

When Is the Best Time to Test Testosterone?

Morning is generally the preferred time for testing when evaluating low testosterone in men.

Testosterone normally follows a daily pattern, with levels tending to be higher in the morning and lower later in the day. MedlinePlus describes testosterone testing as commonly occurring between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m.

The exact timing can depend on your situation and the instructions from your healthcare provider or laboratory.

Why does timing matter?

Suppose someone has their testosterone measured late in the afternoon and receives a lower result than expected. That number may not be directly comparable with a morning measurement.

For this reason, properly timed testing is important when investigating suspected testosterone deficiency.

Do You Need to Fast for a Testosterone Test?

Not every testosterone test requires fasting.

Your healthcare provider or laboratory may instruct you to fast, particularly when the testing is part of a broader evaluation. MedlinePlus and Cleveland Clinic both note that fasting may be requested for certain testosterone tests.

If your provider specifically tells you to fast:

• Follow the instructions carefully.
• Ask what you can drink during the fasting period.
• Tell the provider about medications and supplements you take.
• Do not stop prescription medication unless your healthcare professional tells you to.

For men being evaluated for hypogonadism, the Endocrine Society specifically recommends confirming the diagnosis with repeat morning fasting total testosterone measurements.

How to Test Testosterone Levels at Home

At-home testosterone testing is available from some commercial testing services.

Depending on the product, you may collect a sample using a finger-prick blood collection device or another specified collection method and then send the sample to a laboratory.

The general process looks like this:

Step 1: Choose an appropriate test

Look for a test that clearly explains:

• What sample is required
• Which testosterone measurement is performed
• Which laboratory processes the sample
• How results are delivered
• Whether the test is appropriate for your situation

Step 2: Follow the collection instructions

Timing and sample collection can affect test quality.

Follow the kit’s instructions exactly.

Step 3: Collect the sample

For a finger-prick test, this generally involves obtaining a small blood sample using the supplied collection device.

Step 4: Send the sample to the laboratory

The kit will provide instructions for packaging and returning the sample.

Step 5: Review the results

Results may be provided through an online portal or another reporting system.

Step 6: Discuss abnormal results with a healthcare professional

An at-home test can provide useful information, but it should not automatically be treated as a diagnosis.

MedlinePlus recognizes at-home testosterone collection options and recommends following the provider or kit instructions for collection and return. Cleveland Clinic also cautions that the accuracy of at-home testosterone testing can vary and advises against self-diagnosing a testosterone disorder.

Can You Check Testosterone Levels Without a Blood Test?

There are testosterone-related testing products that use other specimens, such as saliva, but blood testing is the standard approach for clinical assessment of testosterone levels.

If you are concerned about symptoms of low or high testosterone, don’t assume a saliva or consumer test can replace a medically appropriate laboratory evaluation.

The most important question is not simply whether a test can produce a number. It is whether the test is accurate and appropriate for the clinical question being evaluated.

How to Test Testosterone Levels in Men

Healthcare providers commonly evaluate testosterone in men who have symptoms or signs that could indicate testosterone deficiency.

Possible symptoms include:

• Low sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Infertility
• Reduced muscle mass
• Loss of body or facial hair
• Enlarged breast tissue
• Low energy
• Unexplained anemia
• Reduced bone density

These symptoms are not specific to low testosterone, so testing is important before assuming testosterone deficiency is the cause.

Typical testing process for men

A healthcare provider may:

1. Review symptoms and medical history.
2. Review medications and other factors that could affect testosterone.
3. Order a morning total testosterone blood test.
4. Repeat the measurement if the initial result is low or unexpected.
5. Order free testosterone when clinically appropriate.
6. Order additional hormones such as LH and FSH to investigate the possible cause.

The Endocrine Society recommends distinguishing between testicular and hypothalamic-pituitary causes of hypogonadism using LH and FSH when appropriate.

How to Test Testosterone Levels in Women

Women also produce testosterone, although levels are normally much lower than those in men.

Testing may be considered when a woman has symptoms or clinical findings that suggest abnormal androgen levels.

Possible reasons for testing include:

• Excess facial or body hair
• Acne
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Infertility
• Changes in voice
• Other signs of androgen excess

The appropriate test depends on the symptoms and the suspected condition. A healthcare provider may consider testosterone along with other hormone tests rather than interpreting testosterone alone.

For women with menstrual irregularities or suspected endocrine disorders, additional testing may include hormones such as LH, FSH, estradiol, prolactin or other tests depending on the clinical situation.

How Is Testosterone Tested in Children and Teenagers?

Testosterone testing may be used when a child or teenager has signs of early or delayed puberty.

A healthcare professional may use testosterone along with other tests to investigate abnormal pubertal development.

For example, testing may help evaluate:

• Early puberty
• Delayed puberty
• Abnormal sexual development
• Certain endocrine disorders

Cleveland Clinic and MedlinePlus both note that testosterone testing can be used in children and teenagers when puberty appears earlier or later than expected.

Because testosterone levels change substantially during childhood and puberty, results must be interpreted according to age, sex, developmental stage and laboratory reference ranges.

What Happens During a Testosterone Blood Test?

A testosterone blood test is a relatively simple procedure.

Step 1: You sit down

A healthcare professional will position you comfortably.

Step 2: A vein is selected

The inside of the elbow is a common location.

Step 3: The area is cleaned

The skin is disinfected before the needle is inserted.

Step 4: Blood is collected

A small needle is inserted into the vein and blood is collected into a tube.

Step 5: The needle is removed

Pressure is applied to the area and a bandage may be placed over the site.

The actual blood collection usually takes only a few minutes. Cleveland Clinic reports that the blood-draw procedure typically takes less than five minutes.

You may experience a brief pinch or sting and possibly minor bruising afterward.

How Long Does a Testosterone Test Take?

There are two different timelines to consider.

Blood collection

The actual blood draw generally takes only a few minutes.

Laboratory results

Result timing varies between laboratories and test types.

Some routine laboratory results may be available within a few business days, while specialized testing can take longer.

Always check the expected turnaround time with the laboratory performing your test.

What Should You Tell Your Healthcare Provider Before Testing?

Before your testosterone test, tell your healthcare professional about:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medications
• Hormone therapy
• Testosterone therapy
• Supplements
• Steroid use
• Major health conditions
• Recent illness
• Changes in sleep or activity
• Fertility concerns

Some medications and health conditions can affect testosterone measurements.

Don’t stop medication simply to try to change your test result unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.

Can Being Sick Affect Testosterone Levels?

Yes.

Certain illnesses or physiological stresses can temporarily affect testosterone levels.

That’s one reason a low testosterone result should not automatically be interpreted as permanent testosterone deficiency.

Cleveland Clinic notes that illness can temporarily lower testosterone, while the Endocrine Society emphasizes confirming consistently low levels before diagnosing hypogonadism.

If you are acutely ill when testing is performed, tell your healthcare provider.

What Do Testosterone Test Results Mean?

A testosterone laboratory report usually provides:

• Your testosterone measurement
• The unit of measurement
• The laboratory’s reference range
• An indication of whether the result is within that laboratory’s expected range

Do not compare your result with a random reference range found online.

Laboratories can use different testing methods and reference ranges, and interpretation depends on factors such as age, sex, symptoms and the reason the test was ordered.

What Is a Normal Testosterone Level?

There is no single testosterone number that is “normal” for every person.

Testosterone reference ranges vary according to:

• Age
• Sex
• Laboratory
• Testing method
• Time of collection
• Clinical circumstances

Your laboratory report should provide its own reference range.

For men being evaluated for testosterone deficiency, clinical guidelines use specific diagnostic approaches rather than treating every result below a general internet range as a diagnosis.

The Endocrine Society emphasizes that hypogonadism should be diagnosed in men who have compatible symptoms and consistently low, accurately measured testosterone concentrations.

Does a Low Testosterone Result Mean You Have Low Testosterone?

Not necessarily.

A single low testosterone result does not automatically establish hypogonadism.

Testosterone can fluctuate, and factors such as illness, timing and testing conditions can influence the result.

For men with symptoms suggestive of testosterone deficiency, the Endocrine Society recommends confirming the finding with repeat morning testing.

The American Urological Association also recommends using at least two early-morning total testosterone measurements when evaluating testosterone deficiency.

This is why you should not diagnose yourself based on one test result.

What Causes Low Testosterone in Men?

Low testosterone can have several causes.

Testicular causes

Problems affecting the testicles can interfere with testosterone production. This is sometimes called primary hypogonadism.

Pituitary or hypothalamic causes

Problems involving the brain regions that regulate testosterone production can result in secondary hypogonadism.

Other factors

Testosterone levels can also be influenced by certain illnesses, medications and health conditions.

A healthcare provider may use additional tests to determine whether the problem originates primarily from the testicles or from the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. LH and FSH can be particularly useful in this evaluation.

What Causes High Testosterone?

High testosterone can have different causes depending on the person.

Possible causes can include:

• Certain medications
• Anabolic steroid use
• Adrenal disorders
• Ovarian conditions
• Testicular conditions
• Certain tumors
• Some endocrine disorders

The meaning of a high result depends heavily on the person’s sex, age, symptoms and medical history.

An abnormal laboratory result should therefore be interpreted by a healthcare professional rather than used for self-diagnosis.

What Other Tests May Be Ordered With Testosterone?

Testosterone isn’t always evaluated alone.

Depending on the clinical situation, your provider may order additional tests such as:

SHBG

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) binds testosterone and can affect how much testosterone is available.

Albumin

Albumin is another protein that binds testosterone and may be included when free or bioavailable testosterone is being assessed.

LH

Luteinizing hormone (LH) helps determine whether a testosterone problem may involve the testicles or the pituitary/hypothalamic system.

FSH

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can provide additional information about reproductive and pituitary function.

Prolactin

Prolactin may be checked when a pituitary-related cause is suspected.

Estradiol

Estradiol may be relevant in certain hormone evaluations.

Thyroid testing

Thyroid disorders can produce symptoms that overlap with symptoms attributed to testosterone problems, so thyroid testing may be appropriate in some situations.

The appropriate combination depends on the reason for testing.

Total Testosterone vs. Free Testosterone: Which Is Better?

Neither test is automatically “better” for every person.

Total testosterone measures both bound and free testosterone and is commonly used as the initial measurement.

Free testosterone measures the unbound portion and can provide additional information in selected situations.

The Endocrine Society recommends accurate assays for total and free testosterone and appropriate reference ranges when free testosterone measurement is indicated.

If your total testosterone result doesn’t appear to match your symptoms or clinical situation, your healthcare provider may decide that additional testing is appropriate.

How Often Should You Test Testosterone Levels?

There isn’t one testing schedule that applies to everyone.

Testing frequency depends on why you are being tested.

For example, testing may be performed to:

• Investigate symptoms
• Confirm an abnormal result
• Monitor hormone therapy
• Evaluate a known endocrine condition
• Assess changes in reproductive health

If you are being evaluated for suspected low testosterone, repeat testing may be necessary to confirm a consistently low result.

If you are receiving testosterone therapy, your healthcare provider may establish a monitoring schedule based on your treatment and health status.

Can You Test Testosterone Levels at a Doctor’s Office?

Yes.

Your primary care provider may order the test, or you may be referred to an endocrinologist, urologist, gynecologist or another appropriate healthcare professional depending on your symptoms.

A laboratory, hospital or medical clinic can generally collect the blood sample.

The advantage of clinical testing is that the result can be interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history and other laboratory findings.

Where Can You Test Testosterone Levels?

Depending on your location, testosterone testing may be available through:

• Primary care clinics
• Medical offices
• Hospitals
• Diagnostic laboratories
• Endocrinology clinics
• Urology clinics
• Women’s health clinics
• Some commercial at-home testing services

Before choosing a testing service, verify what is actually being measured and whether the test is performed by an accredited or otherwise appropriately regulated laboratory.

How Much Does a Testosterone Test Cost?

The price can vary considerably depending on:

• Your country
• Laboratory
• Insurance coverage
• Whether a provider visit is required
• Total versus comprehensive testing
• Whether additional hormones are included
• At-home versus in-person testing

A basic total testosterone test may cost considerably less than a comprehensive hormone panel.

Because prices change, check directly with your healthcare provider, laboratory or testing service for current pricing.

Can You Test Testosterone Levels Before Starting TRT?

Yes, and proper testing is important before considering testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

Testosterone treatment should not be started simply because you feel tired or because one consumer test shows a low number.

For men, the Endocrine Society recommends diagnosing hypogonadism using compatible symptoms and consistently low testosterone measurements, with confirmation using repeat morning testing.

Additional evaluation may also be needed to identify the underlying cause.

Importantly, testosterone therapy can affect fertility, so men who are planning to have children should discuss this with their healthcare provider before treatment.

What If Your Testosterone Test Is Abnormal?

Don’t panic.

An abnormal testosterone result does not automatically mean that you have a serious disease.

Your healthcare provider may consider:

• The exact testosterone value
• Laboratory reference range
• Time of testing
• Your symptoms
• Age
• Sex
• Medications
• Recent illness
• Other laboratory results
• Whether repeat testing is necessary

Depending on the situation, additional testing may be recommended.

The goal is to determine why testosterone is abnormal rather than simply reacting to one laboratory number.

Can You Increase Testosterone Before a Test?

It is better not to try to manipulate your testosterone level immediately before testing.

The purpose of testing is to obtain an accurate picture of your hormone status.

Avoid making sudden changes to medication, supplements, diet or exercise solely to influence the laboratory result unless your healthcare provider advises you to do so.

Instead, follow the testing instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory.

How to Get the Most Accurate Testosterone Test Result

For the most meaningful result:

1. Follow your laboratory’s preparation instructions.
2. Test at the recommended time, particularly when evaluating low testosterone.
3. Tell your provider about medications and supplements.
4. Tell the provider if you are currently sick.
5. Use a reliable laboratory.
6. Don’t interpret one result in isolation.
7. Repeat testing when your provider recommends it.
8. Consider additional hormone tests when clinically appropriate.
9. Use the reference range provided by the testing laboratory.
10. Discuss abnormal results with a healthcare professional.

Testosterone Testing: Blood vs. At-Home Test

At-home testing can be convenient, but it shouldn’t replace appropriate medical evaluation when symptoms or abnormal results are present.

Frequently Asked Questions About Testing Testosterone Levels

How do I test my testosterone levels?

The standard method is a blood test. A healthcare professional collects blood, usually from a vein, and a laboratory measures testosterone. For suspected low testosterone in men, testing is generally performed in the morning.

How can I test testosterone levels at home?

Some companies offer at-home testosterone testing using a finger-prick blood sample or another collection method. The sample is usually sent to a laboratory for analysis. Follow the kit’s instructions carefully and discuss abnormal results with a healthcare professional.

What is the testosterone blood test called?

The test may be listed as total testosterone, serum testosterone, free testosterone or, less commonly, bioavailable testosterone, depending on what your provider orders.

What is the best time to test testosterone?

For evaluation of low testosterone in men, early morning testing is generally recommended because testosterone levels are typically highest then. MedlinePlus describes a common testing window of approximately 7 to 10 a.m.

Do you have to fast for a testosterone test?

Not every testosterone test requires fasting. Your healthcare provider may instruct you to fast, particularly when evaluating suspected hypogonadism or when other tests are being performed. Follow the instructions given to you.

Can one testosterone test diagnose low testosterone?

Usually, no. In men with suspected hypogonadism, clinical guidance recommends compatible symptoms plus consistently low testosterone, with repeat morning testing used to confirm the finding.

Is total or free testosterone better?

Total testosterone is commonly used as the initial test. Free testosterone may provide additional information in selected clinical situations. The appropriate test depends on your symptoms and clinical circumstances.

Can women have their testosterone tested?

Yes. Women produce testosterone, and testing may be appropriate when symptoms or clinical findings suggest abnormal androgen levels. The interpretation differs from that used for men.

Can children have testosterone testing?

Yes. Testosterone testing may be used when a child or teenager has signs of unusually early or delayed puberty.

How long does a testosterone blood test take?

The blood collection itself usually takes only a few minutes. Laboratory turnaround varies depending on the testing facility and test ordered.

Where can I get a testosterone test?

You can ask a healthcare provider to order testing, or depending on your location, you may be able to use a diagnostic laboratory or an at-home testing service.

What if my testosterone result is low?

A low result should be interpreted in context. Your healthcare provider may repeat the test under appropriate conditions and may order additional tests to determine the cause.

What if my testosterone result is high?

A high result can have different causes depending on age, sex, medications and health conditions. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional evaluation rather than diagnosing a condition from the testosterone number alone.