Home Paternity Testing Procedure

To start your in-home paternity test, simply call our toll-free number, 1-800-DNA-8360, or use our secure online order form. We will send you a DNA sample collection kit via first class mail within 24 hours. When you receive the kit, you may complete sample collection for each person to be tested following these simple steps:

Step 1: Label Swab Envelope.

1. Remove one envelope of buccal swabs from the collection kit.
   

   	Use the envelope labeled “Alleged Father” for the tested father and the “Child” envelop for the tested child. Label the “Other” envelopes as appropriate (Mother, Child 2, etc.)
   	Envelopes should be labeled one at a time, just before collecting samples from each person being tested.

2. Complete the requested information on the swab envelope.
   

   Be sure to provide race information, which is necessary for statistical calculations.

Step 2: Collect Cheek Swab.

1. Cut open the plastic wrapper at the end opposite from the cottony swab tip.
   
   

2. Remove one swab from the package, taking care not to touch the swab tip.
   
   

3. With the mouth wide open, insert the swab into the mouth and rub it firmly back and forth, and up and down on the inside of the cheek.

	Rotate the swab while rubbing.
	It is important to collect enough cheek cells on the entire swab. Insufficient specimen may require recollection and will delay test results.

Step 3: Place Swab in Swab Envelope.

1. Remove the swab from the mouth and place it directly into the paper envelope labeled for that person.

   DO NOT place the swabs back into the plastic wrapper. Doing so will encourage the growth of molds, which may destroy the DNA in the sample.

   
   

2. Repeat steps 2:2–3:1 above using the remaining swabs.

   Use 2 swabs on the right cheek and 2 swabs on the left cheek for each tested person.

    

3. After all 4 swabs have been used, discard the plastic wrapper and seal the paper envelope labeled for that person.
   
   

When samples from all test participants have been collected:

1. Place the paper swab envelopes in back in the DNA Collection Kit.

2. Complete and sign the Client Identification Form.

3. Place the Collection Kit and the completed form in the postage-paid envelope provided.

4. Seal the envelope securely and mail it.