Frequently Asked Questions About DNA Testing

Our frequently asked questions cover the most common questions about paternity testing, relationship DNA testing, forensic DNA testing, and infidelity DNA testing. If you do not see your question answered below, our DNA experts are available to help.

Pricing and Ordering

How much does a paternity test cost?

Our at-home paternity DNA test starts at $119. Pricing may vary depending on the type of test selected, the number of participants, sample type, and whether legal chain-of-custody testing is required.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. The price listed for your DNA test includes the laboratory analysis. Optional services such as Rush Testing, additional participants, or non-standard sample testing may add to the total cost, but these are always disclosed before you place your order.

What payment methods do you accept?

Payment is made at the time of ordering. We accept most major credit cards and also partner with third-party payment providers such as PayPal, Klarna, and Clearpay. We do not accept checks or money orders.

Sample Collection and Testing Process

How are DNA samples collected?

Most DNA tests use simple cheek swabs, which are painless and easy to use. Your kit includes sterile swabs, instructions, and consent forms. Each participant gently rubs the swab against the inside of the cheek to collect cells.

Forensic and infidelity testing may use non-standard samples such as personal items instead of cheek swabs.

Do I need to collect my own samples?

Yes, most clients collect their own samples at home using the provided instructions. However, for legal and NIPP tests, we can arrange third-party sample collection through:

• Mobile sample collectors (home or workplace)

• Partner clinics in our network

Can you send kits to different locations?

Yes. We can ship separate kits to different addresses, including internationally. Each kit is assigned a unique reference number, and testing begins once all required samples are received.

Accuracy, Results, and Turnaround Time

How accurate are your DNA tests?

Our DNA tests are highly accurate. In paternity testing, results typically show a 99.9% or higher probability when a biological relationship exists, or a 100% exclusion when it does not.

Accuracy depends on sample quality and participation of relevant individuals.

How long does it take to receive results?

Turnaround times vary by test type:

• Paternity and relationship tests: typically 2–3 business days

• Rush testing: 1–2 business days

• Infidelity and forensic testing: typically 5–7 business days

Rush options are available for most tests.

What do DNA test results look like?

Your results include a clear conclusion along with supporting data. We also provide guidance on how to interpret the results. Sample reports are available on our website for reference.

Paternity, Maternity, and Relationship Testing

Do I need the mother’s sample for a paternity test?

The mother’s sample is not required but is strongly recommended. Including the mother increases the accuracy and strength of the results, especially in complex cases.

What if I cannot get a sample from the alleged father?

In some cases, testing another relative of the alleged father may be possible. We may also recommend forensic paternity testing using non-standard samples, though DNA recovery is not guaranteed.

Is maternity testing different from paternity testing?

The testing process is the same. The only difference is whose DNA is being compared to the child.

Legal vs Non-Legal Testing

Are your DNA tests court admissible?

We offer both at-home (non-legal) and legal chain-of-custody DNA testing. At-home DNA tests are intended for personal knowledge only and are not legally admissible. Legal DNA tests follow strict identity verification and chain-of-custody procedures and may be used in court.

Infidelity DNA testing and forensic relationship DNA testing are not legally admissible. If you intend to use DNA test results in any type of legal proceeding, we recommend consulting with an attorney to determine what type of testing is required or how to proceed.

What is chain of custody?

Chain of custody is a documented process that verifies sample collection, identity, handling, and transport to ensure results are legally defensible.

Privacy, Security, and Sample Handling

Is my information kept private?

Yes. We use SSL encryption for all transactions and never store full credit card details. DNA results are confidential and shared only with authorized parties.

What happens to my samples after testing?

For non-legal tests, samples are destroyed within 30 days unless archiving is requested. Legal test samples are automatically archived for up to a year at no additional cost.

How long can I store samples before sending them?

Cheek swabs can usually be stored for weeks if kept dry. Non-standard samples vary greatly in viability. We recommend sending samples as soon as possible and contacting us for guidance.

Forensic and Infidelity DNA Testing

Do you test non-standard or discreet samples?

Yes. We can test a wide range of non-standard samples, including clothing, toothbrushes, razors, hair with roots, and other personal items. These tests fall under forensic or infidelity DNA testing.

Can you test hair samples?

Hair must have the root (follicle) attached. We typically require at least four hairs with visible roots to attempt DNA extraction.

Is infidelity testing possible using DNA?

Yes. Infidelity DNA testing can detect biological material and, in some cases, compare DNA profiles. This includes semen detection, DNA extraction, and comparison testing depending on the sample and testing goals.

Still Have Questions?

DNA testing situations can be complex and personal. If you are unsure which test is right for you or have questions about sample suitability, our DNA experts are here to help.

Speak With a DNA Expert