Non-HDL Cholesterol levels: what's normal, high and low
All your cholesterol minus HDL. Captures every atherogenic particle in one number.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
The short answer
Non-HDL Cholesterol is measured with a standard blood draw; no fasting is needed. A typical reference range is 0.000 – 130 mg/dL. TestWell offers panels that include Non-HDL Cholesterol, drawn at Quest or Labcorp. An out-of-range result is a prompt to look closer, not a diagnosis.
Testing for Non-HDL Cholesterol
This marker is reported as part of a panel rather than as a standalone test. Browse the panels that include it.
Browse tests- Units
- mg/dL
- Sample
- Blood
- Fasting
- Not required
- Results
- 1–3 business days
- Labs
- Quest or Labcorp
Non-HDL Cholesterol Reference Range
These are the typical adult reference ranges used by major US labs. Your report will include the specific range used by the lab that processed your sample.
| Population | Range |
|---|---|
| age 18+ | 0.000 – 130 mg/dL |
Reference ranges are educational. Always interpret your result with the specific range printed on your lab report and discuss anything outside the range with a clinician.
Have a result in hand? analyze it with your AI assistant using these reviewed ranges, or run it through our explainer. Tools: look up another marker's range · convert lab units
What your Non-HDL Cholesterol result may mean
Above 130 mg/dL is considered above optimal; above 160 mg/dL is high. A leading cardiovascular risk marker.
Educational only — not a diagnosis. Many factors can influence a single result. Discuss anything that concerns you with a healthcare provider.
Related Heart Health biomarkers
Markers commonly tested alongside Non-HDL Cholesterol.
Frequently asked
What does a high Non-HDL Cholesterol mean?
Above 130 mg/dL is considered above optimal; above 160 mg/dL is high. A leading cardiovascular risk marker. A single result above the reference range is a prompt to look closer with a clinician — often a repeat test and related markers — not a diagnosis on its own.
Do I need a doctor's order to test my non-hdl cholesterol?
No. TestWell's licensed physician network reviews and approves your order — usually within minutes. You can place an order online without an in-person visit or a referral from your own doctor.
How long does it take to get Non-HDL Cholesterol results?
Most Non-HDL Cholesterol results are available in 1–3 business days after your specimen arrives at the lab. You'll get an email the moment your results are ready, with everything viewable in your TestWell portal.
Where can I order a Non-HDL Cholesterol test?
TestWell offers panels that include Non-HDL Cholesterol alongside related markers. Browse our test catalog to find the panel that fits your goals.
Do I need to fast before my Non-HDL Cholesterol test?
Fasting is not required for the Non-HDL Cholesterol test. You can have your blood drawn any time of day.
Which lab will process my Non-HDL Cholesterol test?
Your test will be processed by Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp, or BioReference depending on which is closest to you and which lab carries the test. All three are CLIA-certified and trusted by hospitals nationwide. You'll choose your lab during checkout from 4,000+ locations.
Ready to test your non-hdl cholesterol?
Order in two minutes, get physician-approved, and visit a lab the same day.