How long after exposure does it take for you to test positive for COVID?

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “The average duration of incubation is from 5 to 7 days but can be as long as 14 days. If you have COVID-19 but get tested too soon, your test result could come back negative, even though you have been infected.”

Basically, it can take up to a week after exposure to test positive. Getting tested 5 to 7 days after you think you were exposed should produce the most accurate test result.