Can You Get a Rabies Vaccine at CVS?
Some CVS MinuteClinic locations with travel-health services offer the pre-exposure rabies vaccine — the planned series for travellers and at-risk workers. Availability is limited and depends on the location and on state rules for what pharmacists may administer, so always call the specific clinic before you go. CVS does not provide treatment after a bite (see below).
Walgreens and Other Pharmacies
Some Walgreens travel-health locations and independent travel pharmacies similarly offer the pre-exposure rabies vaccine. Coverage varies widely by store and state, and many pharmacies do not stock it at all. Phone ahead and confirm they have the vaccine in stock and can administer it before making the trip.
Pre-Exposure vs After a Bite — This Matters
This is the most important distinction:
- Pre-exposure (planned): the rabies vaccine series given before any exposure — for travel or work. This is what a pharmacy or travel clinic may provide.
- Post-exposure (after a bite): a pharmacy is not the place to go. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) usually requires rabies immune globulin (HRIG), which pharmacies and even many clinics do not stock (CDC). After a possible exposure, wash the wound and go to urgent care or an emergency room the same day — see what to do after a bite.
Where to Actually Get a Rabies Vaccine
- Travel clinics — the most reliable source for the pre-exposure series.
- County or state health departments — often provide rabies vaccine, sometimes at reduced cost.
- Urgent care and emergency rooms — the right places for post-exposure treatment after a bite.
- Select pharmacies / MinuteClinics — pre-exposure only, where available (call ahead).
Use the SafeRabies clinic finder to locate rabies-capable facilities near you, and see how to find a rabies clinic fast.
Rabies Shots for Pets (Tractor Supply, Petco)
For dogs and cats, pet stores are a real option: Tractor Supply, Petco, and PetSmart host mobile vet clinics that give rabies vaccines, typically for about $20–$45 per dose. See our guide to free and low-cost rabies shots for pets.
How Much Does It Cost?
Without insurance, a pre-exposure human rabies dose commonly runs $300–$700 each, so the full series adds up — ask the location for its price and check your coverage. For a full breakdown, see rabies vaccine cost for humans.