How to Schedule a Vaccine Appointment at Costco

How Costco vaccine appointments work

Costco pharmacies offer routine vaccines through their in-house pharmacy departments at most warehouse locations. You schedule directly with the pharmacy, not through a central system. The process varies slightly by state because pharmacy regulations and vaccine availability differ, but the basic steps are the same: find your local Costco pharmacy's phone number, call during pharmacy hours, and book a time slot.

Costco does not require a membership to receive a vaccine at the pharmacy. You can walk in without a card, though some locations ask for one at the register if you purchase anything else. The pharmacy itself is open to non-members.

Vaccines available at Costco pharmacies typically include flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, shingles vaccines, pneumococcal vaccines, and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis). The exact list changes by season and by location. Some Costco pharmacies also offer RSV vaccines and other routine immunizations, but availability is not may provide at every warehouse.

Key Takeaways

• Call your local Costco pharmacy directly to schedule; there is no online booking system for Costco vaccine appointments.
• You do not need a Costco membership to receive a vaccine, though the pharmacy is only open during warehouse hours.
• Bring your insurance card if you have one, though you can pay out of pocket; costs vary by vaccine type and your coverage.
• Pharmacy hours are typically shorter than warehouse hours, so confirm the schedule before you visit or call.
• Vaccine availability changes by season and location, so call ahead to confirm the specific vaccine you need is in stock.

Finding your local Costco pharmacy phone number

The Costco website has a warehouse locator tool at costco.com. Enter your zip code or city, and the results show all nearby locations with their addresses and phone numbers. Each warehouse listing includes the pharmacy phone number separately from the main warehouse number.

Call the pharmacy line directly rather than the main warehouse number. Pharmacy staff can tell you appointment availability, which vaccines are in stock, and what documents to bring. Main warehouse lines often transfer you or give you outdated information about pharmacy services.

If you cannot find the pharmacy number online, call the main warehouse and ask to be transferred to the pharmacy. Write down the direct pharmacy number for future reference.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring a photo ID and your insurance card if you have one. If you do not have insurance, you can still receive a vaccine and pay the pharmacy's cash price. Costs vary by vaccine and location but typically range from $20 to $200 depending on the type.

If you are getting a vaccine for a child, bring the child's birth certificate or other proof of age. Bring any vaccination records you have on file, though the pharmacy can look up your history if you have received vaccines at Costco before.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in and any paperwork. The pharmacy will ask about your medical history and any allergies before administering the vaccine.

Pharmacy hours and appointment timing

Costco pharmacy hours are shorter than warehouse hours and vary by location. Most pharmacies open at 10 a.m. and close between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays. Weekend hours are typically 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., though some locations close earlier on Sundays.

Appointments are usually available on the same day or within a few days, depending on how busy the pharmacy is. During peak flu season (September through November), wait times can be longer. Call early in the week if you want to book a specific day.

Walk-ins are often accepted, but calling ahead guarantees a time slot and reduces wait time. If you walk in without an appointment, you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on pharmacy traffic.

Vaccine availability by season

Flu shots are available year-round at Costco pharmacies but are most widely stocked from August through March. COVID-19 vaccines are available throughout the year, though the specific formulation changes based on CDC recommendations and current variants.

Shingles vaccines (Shingrix) and pneumococcal vaccines are available year-round for adults who meet age or risk criteria. RSV vaccines became available at some Costco locations starting in 2023 for older adults, but not all warehouses carry them yet.

Tdap and other routine vaccines are stocked regularly, but availability can vary. Call your pharmacy to confirm the specific vaccine you need is in stock before you visit.

Insurance and payment at Costco pharmacy

Costco pharmacy accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial plans. Your insurance typically covers routine vaccines at no cost to you under preventive care rules, though coverage varies by plan and vaccine type.

If you do not have insurance or your plan does not cover a specific vaccine, you can pay cash. Flu shots typically cost $25 to $35 out of pocket. COVID-19 vaccines are free for all patients regardless of insurance status. Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines cost $100 to $200 depending on the vaccine and your location.

Ask the pharmacy staff about the cost before your appointment if you are paying out of pocket. Some vaccines have manufacturer discounts or patient information programs that can lower your cost.

What happens after your vaccine

After you receive a vaccine, the pharmacy staff will ask you to wait 15 minutes in the pharmacy area. This allows them to monitor you for any when ready reactions. Most people have no reaction or only mild soreness at the injection site.

The pharmacy will give you a vaccination record card showing the vaccine name, date, lot number, and the pharmacy location. Keep this card for your records. If you have vaccines at multiple pharmacies, these cards help you and your doctor track your complete vaccination history.

If you need a second dose (as with some COVID-19 vaccines or shingles vaccines), the pharmacy will tell you when to return and may schedule your next appointment before you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a Costco vaccine appointment online?

No. Costco does not offer online vaccine booking. You must call your local Costco pharmacy directly to schedule an appointment. The pharmacy phone number is listed on the Costco website warehouse locator.

Do I need a Costco membership to get a vaccine?

No. Costco pharmacies serve non-members. You do not need a membership card to receive a vaccine. If you purchase other items, you may be asked to show a membership card at checkout, but the vaccine itself is available to anyone.

What if my vaccine is not in stock at my local Costco?

Call another Costco pharmacy nearby to see if they have it in stock. You can receive a vaccine at any Costco warehouse, not just the one closest to you. Some vaccines are seasonal, so if it is out of season, the pharmacy can tell you when it will be back in stock.

How much does a vaccine cost at Costco without insurance?

Costs vary by vaccine type and location. Flu shots typically cost $25 to $35. COVID-19 vaccines are free. Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines range from $100 to $200. Call your pharmacy for exact pricing on the vaccine you need.

Can I get a vaccine for my child at Costco?

Yes. Costco pharmacies offer routine childhood vaccines. Bring your child's birth certificate or proof of age. Call ahead to confirm the specific vaccine your child needs is in stock and to schedule an appointment time that works for you.