Paternity Test
DNA paternity testing determines whether a man could be the biological father of a child. We all inherit our DNA (the genetic material) from our biological parents. A DNA paternity test compares a child’s DNA pattern with that of the alleged father to check for evidence of this inheritance—the most definitive proof of a biological relationship.
The result of a DNA paternity test is either an exclusion (the alleged father is not the biological father), or an inclusion (the alleged father is considered the biological father). For a standard paternity test, DDC guarantees at least 99.99% probability of paternity for inclusions or 100% certainty of exclusion.
Test Types: Legal and Home DNA Test
The type of paternity test you need will depend on what you intend to use the DNA test results for:
- If you need paternity test results that can be used as a legal document (for example, to change the name on the birth certificate or to obtain child support and other benefits), a Legal DNA Test needs to be performed (described below).
- However, if you need the test only for personal knowledge, a Home DNA Test willl suffice.
Unlike the Home DNA Test, where tested parties collect
their own samples at their convenience,
the Legal DNA Test follows a Chain of Custody documentation process to ensure that you receive accurate and legally defensible results. When you set up your case with DDC, we will coordinate a convenient sample collection appointment, during which a trained sample collector will complete all the necessary documentation to satisfy chain of custody requirements.
DNA Testing: The DDC Advantage
DDC leads the DNA testing industry in its quality of service, which focuses on ensuring DNA test accuracy as well as a smooth experience for our clients. For all our DNA paternity testing clients, we:
- Run each test twice, following the most stringent procedures
to guarantee accurate and conclusive results.
![]() Complete testing in 3 working days (5 working days for a prenatal test). ![]() Maintain confidentiality of each case using strict communication
protocols.![]() Schedule convenient appointments
through our comprehensive network of collection sites.
DNA Test Participants
In a standard DNA paternity test, the tested parties include a child, the alleged father, and the mother (called a trio).
The mother’s participation in the paternity
test helps to exclude half of the child’s DNA, leaving the
other half for comparison with the alleged father’s DNA. However,
we can perform a paternity test without mother’s participation
(called a motherless). A motherless test involves additional analysis, which DDC performs without
any additional charge. Results are equally conclusive whether or
not the mother participates. Motherless tests are guaranteed to
have at least a 99.9% probability of paternity for inclusions and
100% for exclusion.
Sample Collection
We routinely use the painless buccal (cheek) swab to collect samples.
We have the largest network of collection sites in the U.S., allowing
our customers to choose a sample collection appointment most convenient
for them. We also have extensive affiliations with laboratories
worldwide for international sample collections.
DNA Testing Costs
The basic cost for the Chain of Custody DNA test is $475 for one child and one alleged father, with or without the mother. In addition, a sample collection fee of $70 is charged for each paternity test case (child and alleged father). The mother's DNA sample is collected free of charge. This fee, paid directly to DDC, covers the cost of coordinating the case and includes sample collection, appointment coordination, and shipping.*
We start the testing process with only a $99 non-refundable partial payment, and you can pay the balance over time. However, results are not released until the balance is paid in full.
*Note: Due to New York State Department of Health regulations, sample collection fees for appointments made in New York vary.
Additional Tested Parties
We can test additional children or alleged fathers
if needed; there is a DNA testing and analysis fee of $195 for each
additional tested party. Sample collections for additional children or alleged fathers cost $35 each.
Special DNA Paternity Testing Options
We often work with customers who would like to know the paternity
relationship even before the child is born. We’re able to
test prenatal samples in such situations. Alternatively,
we can use umbilical cord blood taken at birth—this option
is less expensive than the prenatal test, which requires special
procedures performed by an OB-GYN.
We can also test unusual samples when the father is
missing or deceased based on a viability test performed on the
samples.
For customers seeking peace of mind without intending
to use the results as legal documentation, we provide premium quality Home DNA paternity testing services.
Please visit the Special DNA Paternity Testing Options page to learn more.
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