Yes, CVS accepts Apple Pay at most locations

CVS takes Apple Pay at the register, both in-store and at self-checkout. You can also use Apple Pay through the CVS app or website when you order online for pickup or delivery. The payment method works the same way as a physical card — hold your phone or watch near the contactless reader and authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.

Not every CVS location has been updated with contactless payment technology yet. If the register doesn't have a contactless reader, you'll need to use a physical card or another payment method instead. The easiest way to check before you go is to call your local CVS pharmacy directly, or look for the contactless symbol (usually a curved wave icon) on the card reader when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple Pay works at CVS registers, self-checkout, and through the CVS app for online orders.
  • Your phone or Apple Watch must be within a few inches of the contactless reader to complete the payment.
  • Older CVS locations may not have contactless readers installed yet, so calling ahead can save a trip.
  • You can also use Apple Pay to pay for prescriptions through the CVS app if your pharmacy supports it.

How to use Apple Pay at the CVS register

When you're ready to pay, tell the cashier you're using Apple Pay or look for the contactless symbol on the card reader. Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch about 1 to 2 inches away from the reader. Your device will vibrate and show a checkmark when the payment goes through — you don't need to remove your phone from your pocket or case.

If you're using an iPhone, Face ID or Touch ID will activate automatically when you hold it near the reader. On an Apple Watch, press the side button twice to bring up your default card, then hold the watch near the reader. The whole process takes about 5 to 10 seconds from start to finish.

Using Apple Pay through the CVS app

The CVS app lets you pay with Apple Pay when you order prescriptions for pickup or buy items for same-day delivery. Open the app, add items to your cart, and when you reach checkout, select Apple Pay as your payment method. Your device will ask you to authenticate, and the order is placed immediately.

This method is useful if you want to pay before you arrive at the store, or if you're ordering a prescription refill from home. You can track your order status in the app and get a notification when it's ready for pickup.

What to do if the contactless reader isn't working

If the card reader at your CVS doesn't have a contactless symbol or won't accept Apple Pay, you have a few options. You can insert or swipe a physical credit or debit card instead, pay with cash, or use another digital wallet like Google Pay if the reader supports it. Some older registers only accept chip cards or magnetic stripe cards, so contactless payment won't be an option.

If you encounter this problem regularly at your local CVS, you can contact the store manager and ask when they plan to upgrade their payment terminals. Many CVS locations are still in the process of rolling out contactless technology, so it's worth checking back in a few months if your store doesn't have it yet.

Apple Pay and CVS rewards

When you use Apple Pay at CVS, you can still earn ExtraBucks rewards if you're a CVS loyalty member. Make sure your CVS card is linked to your Apple Pay wallet, or provide your phone number at checkout so the system can find your account. The rewards will post to your account the same way they would with a physical card.

If you're not yet a CVS loyalty member, you can sign up in the CVS app or at the register. There's no cost to join, and you'll start earning rewards on may be able to access purchases right away. Your rewards can be used toward future purchases or discounts on specific items.

Paying for prescriptions with Apple Pay

You can use Apple Pay to pay for prescriptions at the CVS pharmacy counter, or through the CVS app if you're picking up an order you placed online. At the counter, the process is the same as any other purchase — hold your phone near the contactless reader and authenticate. Through the app, you'll select Apple Pay during checkout before you arrive at the store.

Some CVS locations also let you pay for prescriptions through the app without visiting the store at all, if your pharmacy offers mail delivery or local delivery services. Check the CVS app to see what options are available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Apple Pay at CVS self-checkout?

Yes, most CVS self-checkout stations accept Apple Pay. Look for the contactless symbol on the card reader, hold your phone near it, and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID. If the self-checkout doesn't have a contactless reader, you'll need to use a physical card or cash instead.

Do I need to add my CVS card to Apple Pay?

No, you don't need to add your CVS card to Apple Pay to use the payment method. However, linking your CVS loyalty card to your Apple Pay wallet makes it easier to earn rewards — you can do this through the CVS app or at the register.

What if my Apple Pay doesn't work at CVS?

First, make sure your device is unlocked and Face ID or Touch ID is set up. Check that the card reader has a contactless symbol. If it still doesn't work, ask the cashier to try a different reader, or use a physical card instead. You can also contact Apple Support if the problem happens at multiple stores.

Can I use Apple Pay to order CVS delivery?

Yes, Apple Pay is accepted for CVS delivery orders placed through the app or website. Select Apple Pay at checkout, authenticate with your device, and your order will be processed. Delivery times vary by location, usually between 1 and 2 hours.

Is Apple Pay safe to use at CVS?

Apple Pay is secure because your actual card number is never shared with CVS. Instead, a unique transaction code is sent each time you pay. Your device also requires authentication before the payment goes through, so someone else can't use your phone to make a purchase.