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How to Get a CPAP Machine in the US: Prescription, Sleep Test and Supplier
In the US you need a diagnosis of sleep apnea from a sleep test and a prescription before anyone can sell or supply you a CPAP. The usual path is a clinician visit, a home sleep test or an in-lab study, a prescription, then a durable medical equipment (DME) supplier or retailer who sets you up.
Step 1: talk to a clinician
Start with your primary care doctor or a sleep clinic. Tell them about snoring, gasping, pauses in breathing a partner has noticed, morning headaches and daytime sleepiness. Medicare requires an in-person or telehealth clinical evaluation before the sleep test, and most private plans have a similar step.
Bring a list of your medicines, including any opioids or sleep aids, because these change which test is right for you.
Step 2: the sleep test
Most adults without major heart, lung or neuromuscular problems can be tested at home with a home sleep apnea test. People with significant heart or lung disease, neuromuscular weakness, chronic opioid use, a history of stroke or severe insomnia should have an in-lab polysomnogram, according to the 2017 AASM diagnostic guideline.
The result is an apnea hypopnea index (AHI), the number of breathing events per hour. Medicare covers CPAP when the AHI is 15 or more, or 5 to 14 with symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness or conditions such as hypertension, heart disease or a history of stroke.
Step 3: the prescription
Your clinician writes an order for the machine type (CPAP, APAP or bilevel), the pressure or pressure range, humidification and a mask. Many people start on APAP at home; the 2019 AASM guideline says home APAP or an in-lab titration are both reasonable starting points for adults without significant other illnesses.
Ask for a copy of your prescription and your sleep test report. You will need them if you ever buy supplies yourself, change suppliers or travel.
Step 4: getting the machine
With insurance, your clinician usually sends the order to an in-network DME supplier, who delivers the machine, fits a mask and shows you how to use it. Medicare requires the supplier to give you instruction on use and care.
Without insurance, you can buy from a retailer that accepts your prescription. Either way, make sure someone helps you choose and fit a mask, since mask problems are the most common reason people struggle in the first weeks.
Step 5: follow up
Medicare and many private insurers check your usage in the first 90 days and require a follow-up visit to keep paying. Keep your machine connected or keep its SD card in place so your usage is recorded.
If you feel worse, wake gasping on CPAP, or your sleepiness does not improve, tell your clinician. Persistent symptoms are a reason for review, not something to tough out.
Checklist
- Write down your symptoms and any partner observations before the visit.
- Ask which sleep test you need and whether your insurer requires prior authorization.
- Get a copy of your sleep test report and prescription.
- Confirm the supplier is in network before delivery.
- Ask the supplier to fit your mask in person or by video.
Supplies that can help
Distilled water is what most CPAP humidifier chambers are meant to be filled with, because it leaves little or no mineral scale behind.
The air inlet filter keeps dust and lint out of the machine and your airway; it is a cheap part that needs regular replacement.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a CPAP without a prescription?
Not legally in the US. CPAP machines and masks are prescription devices, and US manuals carry the caution that federal law restricts the device to use by or on the order of a physician. Reputable sellers will ask for your prescription.
How long does it take to get a CPAP?
It depends on scheduling for the doctor visit and sleep test and on supplier stock. A home sleep test can shorten the process because there is no lab wait, but timelines vary by region and insurer.
Do I need an in-lab sleep study?
Not usually, if you are an otherwise healthy adult with a high likelihood of moderate to severe sleep apnea. The AASM recommends an in-lab study instead of a home test for people with certain heart, lung, neuromuscular or opioid-related risks, or if a home test is negative or inconclusive.
Who sets up my CPAP?
With insurance it is normally the DME supplier your doctor sends the order to. They should fit your mask, explain cleaning and show you the comfort settings.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error