is it legale for a life insurance agent to do an aids test themselves?

It's perfectly legal, and it's done all the time. Agents are trained to do so. But let me explain that what you had is NOT an AIDS test; it's simply a test that screens for antibodies that are often found in patients with AIDS, and often tobacco use. It is in no way a definitive test for AIDS.

I had to attend a training course before I was permitted to administer the test. As long as your agent performed the testing properly there should be no problem. It's really not complicated: Read forms, sign, hand client the swab, have client place swab between cheek and teeth for specified time, have client place swab in container, have client break off end of swab stick, have client seal container, sign, initial, put in bag, put bag in box, mail box (I'm describing our process - a different test might be a different process).

You're right - it does taste a little nasty, which is why I always had a cup of water ready for the client to wash away the taste.

This type of screening done right there at the agent's office is designed to make it easier and more comfortable for the client. Each insurance company has parameters that say you can just do this type of testing for people up to X age buying X amount of coverage. It removes the need for a blood draw (ALWAYS done by paramedical professionals, in a clinic or - as most of my clients preferred - often in the privacy of your own home) in these cases, which is a good thing. Who wants a needle when they don't have to get one, right?

It's possible there are some agents that don't do it correctly, of course. If the tests come back positive and you question their accuracy you can certainly appeal and raise your concern.

I wish your agent had better prepared you for what was going to happen when you applied for the policy. And I'm sorry if he was unprofessional.

There are plenty of good, professional agents out there. I hope your experience improves!

would demand that the tests be done in a clinical setting. Also some states do recquire licensing to take any samples