How Much Is the Charge for a Diagnostic Test?

It varies widely by test type and setting. In the U.S. today, expect roughly $75–$200 for many non-medical diagnostics (auto, HVAC, electronics) and anywhere from $0 to several thousand dollars for medical diagnostics, depending on the test, where it’s done, and your insurance. Below is a clear breakdown of what drives the price and typical ranges you can use to benchmark quotes.

Why the Price Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Several factors determine what you’ll be charged for a diagnostic test. Understanding these helps explain why two people can pay very different amounts for what sounds like the same service.

• Type of test: Simple screenings (e.g., a basic blood panel or OBD-II car scan) cost far less than advanced imaging or specialized molecular tests.
• Setting: Hospital outpatient departments typically charge more than independent labs or imaging centers; dealership service bays often cost more than independent shops.
• Insurance: Your plan’s network status, deductible, coinsurance, and prior-authorization rules strongly influence out-of-pocket costs.
• Geography and timing: Urban centers and after-hours/emergency visits often carry higher fees.
• Bundling and credits: Some shops or clinics credit the diagnostic fee toward the repair or procedure if you proceed with them.
• Professional interpretation: Radiologist, pathologist, or specialist interpretation may be billed separately from the facility’s fee.

Together, these variables can shift the final price from negligible to substantial, which is why it’s essential to request an itemized estimate before committing.

Typical Prices by Category (U.S., 2025)

Medical laboratory tests (self-pay/ cash-price benchmarks)

These ranges reflect common self-pay prices at independent labs. Hospital list prices can be higher, while insurer-negotiated rates and patient cost-sharing vary by plan.

• Complete blood count (CBC): $10–$30 (hospital list price may exceed $100)
• Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP): $10–$25
• Lipid panel (cholesterol): $15–$35
• Hemoglobin A1c: $10–$25
• Thyroid (TSH ± free T4): $15–$50
• STD panel (varies by scope): $50–$250
• Respiratory PCR (e.g., COVID/flu/RSV): $100–$200 cash; rapid antigen tests retail about $10–$30
• Specialized/genetic tests: often $200–$2,000+ depending on complexity

If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket could be anywhere from $0 to your deductible/coinsurance; using in-network labs generally lowers cost.

Medical imaging and procedures

Imaging prices vary markedly between hospital outpatient departments and independent centers; shopping around can make a large difference.

• X-ray (single area): $50–$200 at independent centers; more in hospital settings
• Ultrasound (non-obstetric): $150–$500
• CT scan (without contrast): $300–$1,200; with contrast often $500–$1,500+
• MRI (without contrast): $300–$1,000 at independent centers; $1,500–$3,000+ at hospitals
• Mammogram (screening): often $0 with insurance; self-pay $100–$250
• Diagnostic endoscopy (e.g., colonoscopy after a positive screen): patient costs vary widely ($0–$3,000+) depending on insurance and site of care

Always ask for both the facility fee and the professional interpretation fee; they are sometimes billed separately.

Dental and vision diagnostics

Preventive and diagnostic exams are typically priced separately from treatment, with variability by clinic and region.

• Dental exam: $75–$125; bitewing X-rays: $25–$100; panoramic X-ray: $100–$250
• Comprehensive eye exam: $75–$200; OCT or retinal imaging add-ons: $50–$150

Dental and vision plans often have specific allowances; confirm coverage and any copays before the visit.

Automotive and home services diagnostics

Mechanic and technician diagnostics often come as a flat “inspection” or “scan” fee; some providers apply this fee toward the repair if you proceed.

• Auto diagnostic (OBD-II scan plus technician time): $100–$200; dealership often $150–$250
• HVAC service call/diagnostic: $75–$150 during regular hours; $125–$250 after-hours
• Appliance or electrical diagnostic visit: $80–$150, commonly credited toward repair

Clarify whether the fee covers only fault-code reading or also includes deeper troubleshooting.

Electronics/computer and veterinary

Consumer tech and veterinary clinics typically post diagnostic fees; these are sometimes waived with approved service or treatment.

• Computer/phone diagnostic: $0–$100 (many shops charge $49–$79 and credit it if you repair)
• Veterinary exam: $50–$90; pet bloodwork: $100–$200; X-ray: $150–$300; ultrasound: $300–$600

Ask for a written estimate that separates the exam fee from diagnostic testing and any procedures.

How to Get an Accurate Price Quote

These steps help you obtain a reliable, itemized estimate and avoid surprise charges.

1. Get the exact test name and code: For medical tests, ask for CPT/HCPCS codes; for auto/HVAC, specify the diagnostic scope.
2. Confirm setting and network status: Verify whether the lab, imaging center, or facility is in-network for your plan.
3. Request itemized, all-in pricing: Ask for facility, professional interpretation, and any additional fees (contrast, sedation, PPE, after-hours).
4. Ask about credits and waivers: Many shops waive diagnostics if you proceed with the repair; some clinics offer cash discounts.
5. Check prior authorization: For advanced imaging or specialized tests, confirm that your insurer has approved the service.
6. Shop around: Compare independent centers against hospital outpatient departments; prices can differ by 2–5x for the same test.

Documenting these details up front reduces the risk of unexpected bills and helps you choose the best value option.

Insurance and Billing Notes (U.S.)

A few current policy realities can materially affect what you pay at the register.

• Preventive vs. diagnostic: Many plans cover preventive screening at $0 cost-share, but the same test performed diagnostically can trigger deductibles/coinsurance.
• No Surprises Act: Protects against some out-of-network facility billing in emergencies, but labs and imaging can still generate out-of-network charges—verify network status.
• COVID-19 era changes: Since the federal public health emergency ended in 2023, most plans no longer cover at-home COVID tests for free; lab PCR coverage varies by plan.
• Good Faith Estimates: Uninsured or self-pay patients are entitled to an upfront estimate; challenge large discrepancies through the provider’s dispute process.

Knowing these rules—and confirming network status—can significantly lower your out-of-pocket expense.

Outside the U.S.: A Quick Perspective

Charges vary by country. In systems with national coverage, many diagnostics are low-cost or free at point of service, though wait times may apply. In mixed systems, private clinics post transparent menus and offer package pricing.

• UK: NHS diagnostics are typically free at point of use; private imaging/labs are available for faster access at market rates.
• Canada: Medically necessary diagnostics are publicly covered; private-pay options exist for expedited access in some provinces.
• Australia: Medicare covers many tests; out-of-pocket “gap” fees depend on provider bulk-billing status.
• India/SE Asia: Wide price dispersion; accredited private labs and imaging centers often advertise transparent cash prices.

Wherever you are, seek accredited providers, ask for a written quote, and confirm what is included.

Bottom Line

There isn’t a single “charge” for a diagnostic test. In 2025, many non-medical diagnostics run $75–$200, while medical diagnostics range from $0 (with coverage) to thousands for advanced imaging and specialized tests. Pin down the exact test, setting, and billing details—and compare quotes—to avoid surprises and control your costs.

What is the average cost of a diagnostic test?

Car diagnostic test prices

State	Labor rate	Car repair cost
Florida	$142.74	$253.55
Texas	$145.86	$251.67
Georgia	$145.34	$262.37
California	$144.56	$268.48

How much is it to run a full diagnostic on a car?

Car diagnostic costs can vary, impacting the overall budget for resolving vehicle issues. On average, a car diagnostic test typically ranges from $50 to $100. Some automotive parts retail shops may offer simple diagnostics for free, but it’s reliant on the vehicle’s computer system throwing the correct code.

Is it normal to pay a diagnostic fee?

You’ll also find that diagnostic fees are common in other industries, such as IT and computer repair, automotive repair, etc. It’s a necessary part of doing business that’s meant to cover the company’s time, labor and overhead expenses.

How much does a diagnostic cost?

Each garage offers its car diagnostics for a fixed price, ranging from £30 – £100.