is a1c a fasting test

No, the A1C test does not require fasting. It measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months by assessing the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin). Unlike fasting blood glucose tests, you can eat and drink normally before an A1C test.

However, your doctor may order additional tests (e.g., cholesterol or fasting glucose) that require fasting, so always confirm with your healthcare provider.