Key takeaways:
Free condoms are available in every U.S. state and Washington, D.C.
Many states have programs that will send you free condoms by mail — and sometimes lube and other sexual health products.
Consistent and correct condom use helps prevent pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
Many over-the-counter birth control options, including condoms, are available at drug stores, convenience stores, and supermarkets. But even if you know where to buy condoms, you may hesitate to purchase them in person. Maybe you’re embarrassed, don’t want people to know you’re sexually active, or can’t afford them.
Because this form of birth control is so effective, health departments, healthcare organizations, and advocacy groups in every state and Washington, D.C. give away condoms at no charge. And in many cases, you can order them for home delivery. Here’s what you need to know about where to get free condoms in your state.
Why are condoms given out for free?
Data from the CDC shows that condoms reduce sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — also known as sexually transmitted diseases or STDs — including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Free condom distribution programs make it easier and more affordable to access and use condoms, which:
Promotes abstinence or delay in sexual activity among young people
Reduces unplanned pregnancies
Lessens exposure to HIV and other STIs in sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), and other groups with higher rates of these conditions
Lowers future healthcare costs
You don’t need a prescription for a condom.
Where can I get free condoms?
Many organizations host free condom distribution programs for in-person pickup or delivery by mail, including:
State and local government health departments
Reproductive health and family planning clinics such as Planned Parenthood
Community health centers
College or university student health services
Reproductive health and family planning advocacy groups
How to get free condoms in my state
To find condoms near you, locate your state (or Washington, D.C., if you live there) below.
You can get free and low-cost birth control. Because of the Affordable Care Act, many kinds of birth control are covered by insurance as preventive care without cost-sharing.
There’s a condom for female anatomy. In addition to external condoms for people with male anatomy, there are internal condoms known as female condoms.
Vasectomy saves money over the long term. Birth control for people with female anatomy can cost more than $2,000 a year. But a vasectomy is permanent sterilization that can cost less than $1,000.
States: A-F | G-L | M | N-P | R-W
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M
N-P
R-W
National free condom locator tools
Didn’t find what you needed? Use one of these locators for additional information on free condoms near you:
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How to use a condom correctly
Condoms only work if you use them correctly and consistently. Here are five tips for storing and unwrapping condoms:
Store condoms in a cool, dry place. Keeping them in your wallet or bag generates heat and friction, which can damage condoms.
Check the expiration date. Don’t use expired products. They’re more likely to break or fail.
Feel for a small air pocket before opening the package. Throw out any package without the bubble.
Open the package carefully. Tear gently along a far edge.
Throw out torn or damaged condoms. They’re unlikely to provide protection.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are many types of condoms. Condoms vary by material (latex versus nonlatex), texture, and even flavor. Most condoms are designed for the external male anatomy. But there are also female condoms that are structured for use inside the body.
Under the Affordable Care Act, many forms of birth control are considered preventive care — which means they are covered by health insurance without cost-sharing from the consumer. This includes contraceptives and surgical sterilization for people with female anatomy. If you don’t have insurance, you may be able to access low-cost birth control from family planning clinics such as Planned Parenthood.
Yes, Opill hit retail shelves and the online marketplace in early 2024. It is the first FDA-approved, over-the-counter birth control pill. That means you can get this medication without a prescription.
Opill is up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy with perfect use and about 91% effective with typical use. But it doesn’t protect you from STIs like condoms. Opill costs about $15 to $20 a month, depending on the quantity you choose. Its manufacturer has an assistance program to make it affordable for eligible consumers who don’t have health insurance.
Yes, there are many types of condoms. Condoms vary by material (latex versus nonlatex), texture, and even flavor. Most condoms are designed for the external male anatomy. But there are also female condoms that are structured for use inside the body.
Under the Affordable Care Act, many forms of birth control are considered preventive care — which means they are covered by health insurance without cost-sharing from the consumer. This includes contraceptives and surgical sterilization for people with female anatomy. If you don’t have insurance, you may be able to access low-cost birth control from family planning clinics such as Planned Parenthood.
Yes, Opill hit retail shelves and the online marketplace in early 2024. It is the first FDA-approved, over-the-counter birth control pill. That means you can get this medication without a prescription.
Opill is up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy with perfect use and about 91% effective with typical use. But it doesn’t protect you from STIs like condoms. Opill costs about $15 to $20 a month, depending on the quantity you choose. Its manufacturer has an assistance program to make it affordable for eligible consumers who don’t have health insurance.
The bottom line [[nav title="Bottom line"]]
Every state and Washington, D.C. has multiple options for free condoms by mail or available for pickup. Many offer kits that include lubricant and other safe sex products. Free condom distribution provides affordable and judgment-free access to highly effective prevention for unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
Why trust our experts?
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Condom distribution as a structural level intervention.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). How to use a condom.
