---
title: Reticulocyte % Test
type: biomarker
url: "https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/reticulocyte"
also_known_as:
  - reticulocyte %
  - retic %
  - reticulocyte percent
category: Blood Health
units:
  - "%"
reviewed_at: 2026-09-05
---

# Reticulocyte %

> Reticulocyte % is measured with a standard blood draw; no fasting is needed. A typical reference range is 0.500 – 2.50 %. TestWell offers panels that include Reticulocyte %, drawn at Quest or Labcorp. An out-of-range result is a prompt to look closer, not a diagnosis.

Also known as: reticulocyte %, retic %, reticulocyte percent.

## Key facts

| Fact | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Units | % |
| Sample | Blood |
| Fasting | Not required |
| Results | 1–3 business days |
| Labs | Quest or Labcorp |

## What does Reticulocyte % measure?

The percentage of red blood cells that are immature (newly produced).

## What is the normal range for Reticulocyte %?

| Population | Reference range |
| --- | --- |
| age 18+ | 0.500 – 2.50 % |

Reference intervals differ slightly between labs; the range printed on your report is the one to interpret against. Ranges are usually set so 95% of healthy people fall inside them.

## Common questions about Reticulocyte %

### Do I need a doctor's order to test my reticulocyte %?

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 Reticulocyte % results?

Most Reticulocyte % 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 Reticulocyte % test?

TestWell offers panels that include Reticulocyte % alongside related markers. Browse our test catalog to find the panel that fits your goals.

### Do I need to fast before my Reticulocyte % test?

Fasting is not required for the Reticulocyte % test. You can have your blood drawn any time of day.

### Which lab will process my Reticulocyte % 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.

## Sources

- [AACC Lab Tests Online](https://www.testing.com/tests/reticulocytes/)
- [MedlinePlus (NIH) — Reticulocyte Count](https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/reticulocyte-count/)

## Related biomarkers

- [Hemoglobin](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/hemoglobin)
- [Hematocrit](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/hematocrit)
- [White Blood Cell Count](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/white-blood-cell-count)
- [Platelet Count](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/platelet-count)
- [Red Blood Cell Count](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/red-blood-cell-count)
- [MCV](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/mcv)

- [Reference range lookup tool](https://www.test-well.com/tools/reference-range-lookup)
- [Lab unit converter](https://www.test-well.com/tools/lab-unit-converter)
- [All biomarkers](https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers)

---

Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD (Medical Reviewer, TestWell); last reviewed 2026-09-05. Review policy: https://www.test-well.com/reviewers/youmna-distefano-md

Canonical page: https://www.test-well.com/biomarkers/reticulocyte
Machine-readable catalog: https://www.test-well.com/api/catalog.json · MCP server: https://www.test-well.com/mcp · Overview for agents: https://www.test-well.com/llms.txt

Prices are cash-pay, in USD, and include physician authorization; every order adds one flat $6 lab processing fee. Educational content is not a diagnosis — discuss results with a clinician.