How long does the tuberculosis skin test take?

48-72 hours: Any physician can order or apply a TB skin test. A very tiny needle is used to inject the test media, on the forearm. You will need to return in 48-72 hours to have it read.

48 to 72 hours: The actual placement of the TB skin test (PPD) only takes a few seconds and should be painless. However you need to return to the clinic to have the skin test "read" by someone who knows what they are looking for between 48 and 72 hours later.