CervicalCheck
Free cervical screening for women and anyone with a cervix aged 25 to 65.
Last checked October 2026
What it is
Free cervical screening (smear test) for women and anyone with a cervix aged 25 to 65. It is every 3 years from age 25 to 29, then every 5 years from 30 to 65. The test checks for HPV, the main cause of cervical cancer, so changes can be found and treated early.
Who can get it
- You have a cervix and you are aged 25 to 65
- You can book at any time after you turn 25 with a GP or clinic registered with CervicalCheck. You do not need a letter or to be on the register first
- Between screenings the usual gap is 3 years from 25 to 29 and 5 years from 30 to 65. Some people are screened more often, for example every year if you have HPV that does not go away
- It is every three years from 25 to 29, then every five years from 30 to 65.
- The test looks for HPV, which is the main cause of cervical cancer, so changes get picked up long before they become a problem.
- If you have moved house or changed name, check you are on the register, otherwise the invitation will not reach you.
How to apply
Applications go through HSE. The official page has the full eligibility rules and the application itself.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 20 October 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Questions people ask
Is a smear test free in Ireland?
Yes. CervicalCheck provides free cervical screening for women and anyone with a cervix aged 25 to 65.
How often should I have a smear test?
Every three years between the ages of 25 and 29, then every five years from 30 to 65. Some people need it more often, such as every year if you have HPV that does not go away.
What age does cervical screening start and stop?
It starts at 25 and runs to 65.
What does the test actually check for?
It tests for HPV, the main cause of cervical cancer, so anything that needs watching is caught early.
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- HSE Fertility Treatment (IVF, ICSI, IUI)
- Free Contraception Scheme
- Drugs Payment Scheme
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