COVID testing still encouraged even as vaccinations are underway, here’s where you can get a free test Even as vaccinations are underway, health officials are encouraging the public to continue to get tested for coronavirus, adding it could be months before the majority of the community has been vaccinated. In the meantime, they say it’s essential to keep prioritizing testing countywide. There are now several places people can easily get a free test in the Coachella Valley. Lines to get tested have been particularly short at the University of California Riverside campus location in Palm Desert. “Right now the good thing is the wait times are very low usually within the day you can get an appointment,” said Yaoska Machado, Public Information Specialist, Riverside County.