Walmart A1C Test: Review & Cost
Editorial Team
Medical Writing Dept.
Dr. Linda Garcia, MD
Medical Reviewer
Walmart A1C Test: Review & Cost
Executive Summary
- • Understanding A1C is the foundation of diabetes management.
- • This guide is based on 2026 ADA Clinical Standards.
- • A1C reflects your average sugar over 90 days.
- • Learn actionable ways to lower your results.
Executive Summary
The Walmart ReliOn A1C test is one of the most affordable ways to monitor your 3-month blood sugar average at home. It typically costs around $35 for a 2-test kit ($17.50 per test). While it is highly convenient and provides results in 5 minutes, it is intended for monitoring progress between doctor visits rather than for official diagnosis.
Walmart ReliOn A1C test Overview
Walmart's "ReliOn" brand is well-known in the diabetes community for providing low-cost supplies. Their A1C Self-Test System is a "point-of-care" device that you can use in your own kitchen.
| Feature | ReliOn [A1C test](/blog/what-is-a1c) Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $32.98 - $36.00 (varies by region) |
| Contents | 2 complete tests, lancets, and a digital monitor |
| Time to Result | 5 Minutes |
| Accuracy | Certified by the NGSP (matches lab standards) |
| Reusability | The monitor is disposable after 2 tests |
1. How Accurate is the Walmart A1C test?
The ReliOn A1C test is NGSP (National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program) certified. This means that the technology inside the kit has been proven in clinical trials to provide results that are closely aligned with standard laboratory methods.
However, users should be aware that all at-home tests have a slightly higher "margin of error" than a full blood draw at a hospital. A result of 7.0% on the Walmart kit might be a 6.8% or a 7.2% at a lab.
2. Pros and Cons of Home Testing
The Pros:
- Convenience: No appointment, no fasting, and no needle draw from a vein (just a finger-prick).
- Privacy: Get your results in private before your next doctor's appointment.
- Instant Feedback: Seeing a "high" result at home can be a powerful motivator to tighten up your diet immediately.
The Cons:
- Disposable Nature: Once you use the two tests, you have to throw away the entire plastic monitor, which is not environmentally friendly.
- One-Time Use: You cannot buy "refill" strips for the monitor; you must buy a whole new kit.
Clinical Guidance
If the Walmart test gives you a result that is significantly different from your last doctor's visit (e.g., jumping from 6.0% to 9.0%), you should schedule a clinical lab test immediately to confirm the accuracy of the result.
3. How to Use the Kit for Best Results
To ensure the most accurate reading, follow these steps exactly:
- Wash Your Hands: Use warm water to increase blood flow to the fingers.
- Check the Date: Never use a kit that is past its expiration date, as the chemical reagents can degrade.
- The "Big" Drop: Ensure you get a large enough drop of blood to fill the collection tube entirely. An incomplete sample is the #1 cause of error messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Walmart ReliOn the same as the A1CNow kit?
Yes. The technology inside the Walmart ReliOn box is the A1CNow+ system, which is the same technology used in many professional doctors' offices for rapid testing.
Does Walmart sell A1C tests in the pharmacy or the aisle?
You can usually find the A1C kits in the pharmacy section, near the blood glucose meters and test strips. You do not need a prescription to buy them.
Can I use the Walmart A1C test for my child?
While the test is accurate for all ages, managing pediatric diabetes is complex. You should always consult your child's pediatric endocrinologist before relying on home testing results for treatment changes.
The Biochemistry of Glycated Hemoglobin
To understand A1C, we must look at the Amadori rearrangement. This is a series of chemical reactions where glucose bonds to the N-terminal valine of the hemoglobin beta chain. Because this bond is nearly irreversible, the percentage of glycated hemoglobin remains stable throughout the 120-day lifespan of the erythrocyte. This makes A1C a superior metric for long-term glycemic control compared to transient plasma glucose tests.
References
- ReliOn A1C Self-Test System - Product Information
- NGSP - List of Certified Point-of-Care A1C Devices
- [Diabetes Care - Accuracy of at-home A1C testing](https://diabetesjournals.org/care)
Learn more in our comprehensive What is A1C? complete guide.
Medical Quality Assurance
Clinical Transparency: This content is reviewed by a board-certified endocrinologist for clinical accuracy. It is based on the Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026 published by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). This guide is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for diagnosis and treatment plans.