The newest guidelines recommend pap smears starting at age 21 for sexually active women and HPV testing starting at age 30. Most of the time, paps should be done every two years, unless you have new risk factors. However, your insurance does cover it once every calendar year from your last pap. Many women can stop getting paps after a hysterectomy with removal of the cervix or after age 65. The pap is only one test offered during the annual wellness exam and we recommend you be seen every year for a checkup.