DNA Testing Frequently Asked Questions

​​​

1. What is a DNA test and how does it work?

A DNA test analyzes genetic material from cells like saliva or blood to compare DNA sequences and determine biological relationships or ancestry.

​

2. How does DNA testing for paternity and relationships work?

Most tests use cheek (buccal) swabs to collect DNA, which is then analyzed using STR (Short Tandem Repeat) markers. Commonly, at least 24 STR markers are examined to determine parentage or other familial relationships. Tests are usually run twice to ensure accuracy.

​

3. How accurate are DNA tests?

DNA tests are very accurate, often over  99.9% accuracy for matches, and 100% accuracy for exclusions for paternity and close family relationships, making them reliable for legal and personal purposes. 

​

4. Do I always need to test the mother?

No. While including the mother can improve statistical certainty, tests can still be conclusive even without her sample by comparing DNA between the child and alleged father.

 

5. What types of DNA tests are there?

Common types include paternity tests, maternity tests, siblingship tests, ancestry tests, and forensic tests.

 

6. What samples are used for DNA testing?

Samples usually come from cheek swabs, saliva, blood, hair follicles, or other cells that contain DNA.

 

7. How long does it take to get DNA test results

Most results arrive within 1-3 business days.

 

8. Is a DNA paternity test legally binding?

Legal DNA tests follow strict chain-of-custody procedures and are admissible in courts if done through accredited labs.

 

9. Do I need a court order for DNA testing?

For legal cases, a court order or consent may be necessary. For peace of mind tests, no order is usually required.

 

10. Are DNA tests confidential?

Yes, our partner labs protect your privacy and results are only shared with authorized parties.

 

11. What is the difference between peace of mind and legal DNA tests?

Peace of mind tests are for personal knowledge and not legally admissible; legal tests have stricter protocols for official use.

 

12. Do twins have identical DNA?

Identical twins share almost identical DNA; fraternal twins do not.

 

13. Can DNA testing help with immigration or citizenship?

DNA can support proving family relationships but is usually one part of the documentation required.

​

14. Where can I get a DNA test while pregnant?

You can get a DNA test while pregnant at private DNA testing clinics that offer non-invasive prenatal paternity testing. It is important that you are at least 7 weeks pregnant before taking this test. The process is completely safe for both mother and baby since it uses a simple blood sample from the pregnant woman and a cheek swab from the potential father. Well-known providers—such as Greenplace Healthcare offer these tests by appointment, and results are typically available in a week. Prenatal DNA testing is not available through public healthcare doctors or midwives and must be booked privately.

​

15. Do I need to do a DNA test to get a parental order for a baby born via surrogacy?

In most countries, you must prove that at least one intended parent is biologically related to the child to be granted full legal parental rights. The most common and accepted way to prove this biological link internationally is with a DNA test.

• In the UK, Ireland, and many EU countries, a DNA test is required to show the genetic relationship between the intended parent(s) and the child before the court will grant a parental order, finalizing the legal parent-child relationship.

• In the United States, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere, a DNA test is also strongly recommended or may be required, especially if documentation from the fertility clinic does not conclusively link the intended parent(s) to the child.