How DNA Testing Works
Purchase a DNA Test
Select the appropriate DNA test.
Schedule Appointment
Legal DNA tests have special collection requirements. These requirements are designed to provide confidence, in a legal setting, that the samples were collected from the correct individuals and that no tampering occurred during the sample collection process and shipment to the testing laboratory. Samples provided by each party do not have to be collected at the same time.
Samples are shipped to Lab
Once the DNA samples have been collected, the collection site will ship the samples to LabCorp in a tamper-evident shipping envelope that maintains the security and chain of custody.
Test Sample
Once the laboratory has received a sample, it is tested and reviewed twice to ensure quality.
Send Results
Results are typically available within 3-5 business days for routine paternity cases. Results may be delivered via email, USPS or express shipper.
Purchase a DNA Test
Select the appropriate DNA test.
Collect Sample
At home DNA tests do not have special collection requirements and can be collected in the privacy of your home.
The kit will be sent to the address specified on the order. You should expect your order to arrive within 2-3 business days. The kit will contain 4 cotton swabs for each person that will be providing their sample for testing, along with easy to follow instructions.
Ship Sample to Lab
Once the samples have been collected, package the kit in the tamper-evident shipping envelope. Attach the pre-paid shipping label to the envelope and drop off at a FedEx location.
Test Sample
Once the laboratory in Burlington, NC has received a sample, it is tested and reviewed twice to ensure quality.
Send Results
Results are typically available within 3-5 business days for a routine paternity case. Results may be delivered via email, USPS or express shipper
How do New York residents order a legal DNA test?
Legal DNA testing of New York residents can be purchased online. However, it requires an authorized person to make a written request, which is typically in the form of a physician or court order.
NY Resident Legal Test FAQs
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How do New York residents order a legal DNA test?
Legal DNA testing of New York residents can be purchased online. However, it requires an authorized person to make a written request, which is typically in the form of a physician or court order.
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What documents are required?
A physician or court order naming all individuals to be tested is an acceptable document. It is required before an appointment is scheduled.
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Where do I send the documents?
The required document can be faxed to LabCorp at (336)538-6411 or emailed to [email protected]. If mailed, please send to: LabCorp DNA, 1440 York Court, Burlington, NC 27215.
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Can I get a copy of the results?
The original results will be issued to the ordering physician, attorney or judge/court; who must provide authorization for the results to be released. The Authorization for Release of Paternity Test Results State of New York Form must be completed and sent to LabCorp with the other required documents, before results will be released to you.
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When are the appointments scheduled?
After your order is confirmed and payment is processed, one of our representatives will follow up to schedule your specimen collection. We have more than 1,900 LabCorp-operated facilities in the US, and contract with more than 13,000 locations globally. We will work with you to find a convenient location for sample collection.
Ready? Get started now.
Paternity Testing
Paternity testing provides scientific evidence of whether a man can be a child's biological father. Paternity is determined by comparing the child's DNA with the DNA profile of the alleged father.
Learn More
Science
Labcorp’s innovative testing procedures reduce the need for repeat and extended testing, allowing results to be delivered faster. Our methods and procedures are reviewed as part of the accreditation process by the AABB, as well as other international accreditation agencies. Our skilled technicians and laboratory directors continuously follow the latest advances in scientific development to ensure we bring you the most up-to-date testing available.
Privacy & Security
Your privacy and security are important to us. Once samples have been collected, they are packaged in a tamper-evident bag for shipment to our DNA testing laboratory. Entry into our DNA testing facility is by restricted access only. All samples are barcoded and all computer systems are secured. Results and case information are shared only with authorized individuals. For the protection of the tested parties, results are not released over the phone.
Our Lab
Unlike many DNA identity testing laboratories, we provide more than 1,900 company-operated patient service centers exclusively for the use of our clients. In addition, specimens can be collected at many alternate third-party collection sites. Our extensive network of certified DNA collection facilities throughout the United States allows Labcorp to provide convenient times and locations for specimen collection. We can accommodate same-day DNA collection needs upon request.
Still have questions?
- What is a DNA Paternity Test?
A paternity test is a scientific test that compares the DNA of a child, mother, and alleged father to determine the likelihood of whether the man is or is not the biological father of a child. It is possible to test only the child and alleged father, but it is preferred to also test the mother when possible.
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- Do I have to have a doctor's order?
A doctor’s order is not generally required. However, in compliance with New York State law, LabCorp requires a prescription, court order, or ordering by other authorized persons for all DNA identity or relationship tests performed on a New York resident.
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- Who needs to be tested?
It is preferable to test a child, alleged father, and the mother of the child. However, testing is possible without the mother’s sample and in certain circumstances, such as when the alleged father is unavailable or deceased, it is also possible to conduct a test using stored DNA samples from the alleged father or DNA from his biological relatives.
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- Will results be accepted in court?
Labcorp is a fully accredited laboratory. Thus, results of our legal DNA paternity test may be used in any legal matter and may be accepted in a court of law, assuming the chain-of-custody form was completed in accordance with Labcorp’s strict chain-of-custody guidelines. The results of a non-legal test are not intended for use in legal matters.
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- What will the results indicate?
Labcorp results usually provide a probability of paternity of either 0.00% or 99.99% or greater.
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