Testosterone (Free & Total)
Comprehensive assessment of both total testosterone and biologically active free testosterone to evaluate hormone levels for men and women.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test reports both total testosterone and free testosterone from a single blood draw. Total testosterone represents the full amount of the hormone circulating in the blood, including the large majority that is bound to carrier proteins (primarily SHBG and albumin) and therefore inactive. Free testosterone is the small unbound fraction, typically less than 2% of the total, that is immediately available to enter cells and carry out essential functions.
Measuring both forms matters because they can tell different stories. Total testosterone reflects the body's overall production capacity, while free testosterone indicates how much hormone is actually reaching muscles, bones, the brain, and other target tissues. A person with elevated SHBG, for instance, may show a reassuring total testosterone level while experiencing symptoms of deficiency because too little of the hormone is circulating in its active form. Including both measurements in the same test helps avoid that blind spot.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone such as reduced energy, decreased muscle mass, low libido, or mood changes
- Women with signs of excess testosterone including irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, or acne
- Individuals with conditions that may affect testosterone-binding proteins, such as obesity, liver disease, or thyroid disorders
- Men and women being evaluated for reproductive health issues or fertility concerns
- Adults monitoring testosterone replacement therapy or other hormonal treatments
- Those with unexplained fatigue, depression, or changes in body composition that may be hormone-related
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting is required for this test. For the most accurate results, blood should be collected in the morning between 7:00-10:00 AM when testosterone levels are typically at their peak. Individuals taking biotin supplements should discontinue use at least 72 hours before testing, as biotin may interfere with certain testosterone assays.
Sample Type
Blood sample collected through a standard venipuncture (blood draw from arm vein)
Collection
A trained phlebotomist will draw blood from a vein in the arm using a needle and collection tube. The process typically takes just a few minutes and requires no doctor visit.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days after the lab receives the sample
Understanding your results
The lab report will list separate values and reference ranges for total and free testosterone. Healthcare providers evaluate both numbers together, since the relationship between them reveals more than either value alone. Free testosterone is often the more clinically relevant marker when investigating symptoms of hormonal imbalance, because it reflects the hormone actually available at the tissue level. When results are ambiguous or borderline, providers may also consider SHBG levels and clinical symptoms to complete the assessment.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Males (19-49 years) | Total: 250-836 ng/dL, Free: 66-309 pg/mL | Normal ranges for healthy men of reproductive age |
| Adult Males (50+ years) | Total: 193-740 ng/dL, Free: varies by age | Testosterone naturally declines with age in men |
| Adult Females (19-49 years) | Total: 8-48 ng/dL, Free: varies | Women typically have much lower testosterone levels than men |
| Adult Females (50+ years) | Total: 2-41 ng/dL, Free: varies | Levels may decrease further after menopause |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low testosterone levels may be associated with various symptoms and conditions. In men, symptoms of low testosterone can include fatigue, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, depressed mood, and difficulty building muscle mass. In women, low testosterone may contribute to decreased libido, fatigue, or reduced muscle strength. Testosterone typically drops by about 1% per year after age 30 in men, so some decline is considered a normal part of aging.
What does a “High” result mean?
Elevated testosterone levels may be associated with different conditions depending on the individual. In men, high testosterone is less common but may indicate conditions affecting the testes or adrenal glands. In women, elevated testosterone can be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal disorders, or other conditions that increase androgen production. Symptoms in women may include irregular menstrual periods, excessive hair growth, acne, or male-pattern baldness.
Privacy & confidentiality
All test orders are authorized and results reviewed by an independent, board-certified physician who is not the patient's personal doctor. Your testosterone test results are completely confidential and private. Results are <u>not sent to your personal doctor</u> unless you specifically request them to be shared. The test is <u>not part of your medical records</u> and will <u>not appear on insurance statements</u> or explanation of benefits (EOB) forms. Your employer and insurance company cannot access these results. All testing is conducted by certified laboratories following strict privacy protocols, and results are securely delivered directly to you through our HIPAA-compliant patient portal. This allows individuals to assess their hormone levels privately and make informed decisions about their health without concerns about privacy or insurance implications.
Frequently asked questions
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Related articles
I Think I Have Low Testosterone. What Should I Do First?
Read ArticleTestosterone Levels by Age: What Is Normal?
Read ArticleTotal Testosterone vs Free Testosterone: Which Test Do You Need?
Read ArticleTracking Testosterone: A Biohacker's Guide to Male Hormone Optimization
Read ArticleLast reviewed: April 10, 2026
CPT Code: 84403, 84402
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
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