Have questions about DNA testing? Validity Genetics offers paternity DNA testing, relationship DNA testing, infidelity DNA testing, forensic DNA testing, and legal DNA testing to help individuals and families find the answers they need.
Below, you'll find answers to common questions about DNA testing, sample collection, shipping, laboratory procedures, results, and payment options.
If you cannot find the information you need, please contact Validity Genetics for assistance.
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General DNA Testing Questions
What types of DNA testing does Validity Genetics offer?
Validity Genetics provides a wide range of DNA testing services, including:
Paternity DNA Testing: Determines whether a man is the biological father of a child.
Relationship DNA Testing: Evaluates biological relationships between siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members.
Infidelity DNA Testing: Analyzes suspicious items or stains for human DNA and can compare recovered DNA profiles against known reference samples.
Forensic DNA Testing: Uses non-standard samples, such as toothbrushes, clothing, and personal belongings, to investigate biological relationships.
Legal DNA Testing: Establishes biological relationships using documented identity verification and chain-of-custody procedures.
Immigration DNA Testing: Helps establish biological relationships when DNA evidence is requested in an immigration case.
We also offer specialized services, including semen detection, saliva detection, blood detection, and male-specific Y-STR DNA testing.
How accurate is DNA testing?
Modern DNA testing is highly reliable when appropriate laboratory methods are used and suitable samples are available.
Paternity DNA testing can typically provide a probability greater than 99.9% when the genetic evidence supports paternity or exclude an alleged father when the evidence is inconsistent with the claimed relationship.
Other relationship tests, such as sibling or grandparent DNA testing, use statistical analysis and may occasionally produce inconclusive results.
The strength of a DNA test result depends on the type of testing performed, the individuals participating, and the quality of the DNA samples.
What is the difference between DNA testing and genetic testing?
DNA testing is a broad term describing the analysis of genetic material.
Genetic testing can include medical testing for inherited conditions, ancestry analysis, and DNA profiling used for identification or biological relationship testing.
Validity Genetics specializes in DNA testing for biological relationships, forensic comparisons, and the detection of certain biological materials.
For more information, read our guide to DNA testing and how it works.
Can DNA testing identify an unknown person?
DNA profiling can help determine whether DNA recovered from an item is consistent with a known individual's DNA profile.
However, identifying an unknown person generally requires a suitable reference sample for comparison.
Validity Genetics does not have access to law enforcement databases such as CODIS and cannot identify an unknown individual by searching a national DNA database.
Paternity & Relationship DNA Testing
Can a paternity test be performed without the alleged father?
Yes. When the alleged father is unavailable, deceased, or unwilling to participate, other biological relatives may be tested to help evaluate the claimed relationship.
Depending on the available participants, testing options may include:
Paternal Lineage (Y-STR) DNA Testing
In some cases, Forensic Paternity DNA Testing may also be possible using an item believed to contain the alleged father's DNA.
The best option depends on which relatives or samples are available.
How old does a child need to be for a paternity DNA test?
Paternity DNA testing can be performed at any age, including shortly after birth.
A standard cheek swab is typically used to collect the baby's DNA. The collection is quick, noninvasive, and painless.
Does the mother need to participate in a paternity DNA test?
No. A paternity test can generally provide a conclusive result using samples from the child and alleged father alone.
However, including the biological mother's DNA can provide additional genetic information and may be helpful in unusual or more complex cases.
Should the mother participate in sibling, grandparent, or avuncular DNA testing?
When available, including the biological mother's DNA is often recommended.
Her participation can help the laboratory distinguish maternal genetic information from the genetic information relevant to the relationship being investigated.
This may strengthen the statistical results and reduce the possibility of an inconclusive finding.
Can a DNA test determine whether two people are full or half siblings?
Sibling DNA testing can evaluate whether two individuals are more likely to share both biological parents, one biological parent, or neither parent.
Unlike standard paternity testing, sibling testing is based on statistical comparisons and may not always produce a definitive conclusion. When ordering please select which relationship you are looking to have confirmed; Full sibling, Half sibling, or both.
Including a known biological parent can improve the strength of the analysis.
Why does a negative paternity test show matching DNA markers?
Unrelated individuals can share some genetic markers because certain DNA variations are common throughout the population.
A negative paternity test may therefore show several matching markers while still excluding the alleged father.
The laboratory evaluates the complete genetic profile rather than simply counting matching markers. Genetic mutations and other factors are also considered when interpreting results.
Read our article on why DNA markers can match on a negative paternity test.
Can I see examples of paternity DNA test results?
Yes. We provide examples of positive and negative paternity DNA test reports to help customers understand how genetic markers, paternity indexes, and final conclusions are presented.
Visit our Example Paternity DNA Test Results page.
Infidelity & Forensic DNA Testing
What items can be tested for DNA in an infidelity investigation?
Many everyday items may contain biological material suitable for DNA analysis.
Examples include underwear, clothing, bedding, toothbrushes, tissues, condoms, and suspicious stains.
The ability to recover a usable DNA profile depends on the type of sample, the amount of biological material present, and its condition.
Learn more about Infidelity DNA Testing.
Can DNA testing determine whether a stain contains semen?
Yes. Our Semen Detection Test uses a human-specific confirmatory laboratory method designed to detect semen-associated proteins.
Semen detection is different from DNA profiling. A positive semen detection result does not automatically identify the person who deposited the material.
Additional DNA extraction and comparison testing may be available to help determine whether recovered DNA is consistent with a known individual's profile.
Can you test for saliva or blood on an item?
Yes. Validity Genetics offers specialized testing for the presence of human saliva and blood. These are our Saliva and Blood Detection tests.
These services use laboratory methods designed to detect biological markers associated with the specific fluid being tested.
If DNA identification or comparison is also needed, additional testing may be required.
Can DNA testing determine when biological material was deposited?
No. DNA testing cannot reliably determine the exact date or time that DNA, semen, saliva, or blood was deposited on an item.
It also cannot establish how DNA was transferred or confirm that sexual activity occurred.
What is the difference between a Simple, Advanced, and Complete Infidelity DNA Test?
Our infidelity testing options provide different levels of analysis.
Simple Infidelity DNA Test: Attempts to recover and report human DNA profiles from a submitted item without comparing them to a reference sample.
Advanced Infidelity DNA Test: Includes DNA extraction and comparison against a known reference sample.
Complete Infidelity DNA Test: Combines DNA extraction and comparison with semen detection testing. These tests are performed at the same time.
What is Y-STR Infidelity DNA testing?
Y-STR testing examines genetic markers on the Y chromosome and is useful when attempting to detect male DNA, particularly in samples containing larger amounts of female DNA. Do note that only biological male DNA profile are reported and can be compared.
Because Y-STR profiles are inherited along the paternal line, closely related males may share the same or very similar profiles.
Y-STR testing detects male genetic material but does not establish whether semen is present.
Learn more about our Simple Y-STR Infidelity DNA Test and Advanced Y-STR Infidelity DNA Test.
Can I perform a forensic paternity test using a toothbrush or another personal item?
Yes. In some cases, DNA may be recovered from personal belongings such as toothbrushes, razors, or other items containing biological material.
A toothbrush can be a useful sample because it may contain DNA from a single regular user.
However, successful DNA recovery cannot be guaranteed, and the sample must be evaluated for suitability.
Learn more about Forensic Paternity DNA Testing.
Can forensic DNA testing be used to determine other family relationships?
Yes. Forensic relationship DNA testing may be performed using non-standard samples when one or more individuals cannot provide a traditional cheek swab.
Depending on the circumstances, available services include:
These tests are intended for informational purposes and are not substitutes for legal chain-of-custody DNA testing.
Visit our Forensic Relationship DNA Testing page to learn more.
Is infidelity DNA testing confidential?
Yes. All DNA testing performed through Validity Genetics is strictly confidential and handled with the utmost care and discretion.
We understand that infidelity DNA testing often involves sensitive and deeply personal situations. Your privacy is extremely important to us.
We do not sell or share your personal information, DNA profiles, testing information, or test results with outside parties for marketing or other unrelated purposes. Your information is used only as necessary to process your order, perform the requested laboratory testing, and deliver your results.
DNA test results and order related information are released only to the original purchaser unless written authorization is provided to share them with another person.
For additional discretion, eligible infidelity DNA tests offer an Electronic Instructions option at checkout, allowing you to collect and submit samples without receiving a physical testing kit at your address.
DNA Sample Collection & Shipping
How are DNA samples collected?
For standard paternity and relationship DNA tests, samples are generally collected using oral cheek swabs.
The swab is gently rubbed against the inside of the cheek to collect cells containing DNA.
After collection, the swabs should be allowed to air dry and packaged according to the instructions provided with the test kit.
How should I collect and package non-standard DNA samples?
Non-standard samples should be handled as little as possible to reduce contamination.
Whenever possible, wear clean disposable gloves, allow damp biological material to air dry, and package each item separately in a labeled paper envelope or bag.
Avoid placing biological samples directly into plastic packaging.
For detailed instructions, see How to Collect DNA Samples for Infidelity Testing.
How long can DNA samples last?
DNA can remain recoverable for extended periods when samples are properly dried and stored.
However, heat, moisture, sunlight, bacterial growth, and improper handling can damage DNA.
Fresh samples are generally preferred, but older samples may still be suitable for testing depending on their condition.
How long can I store collected DNA samples before mailing them?
We recommend shipping samples to our laboratory as soon as reasonably possible after collection.
Properly dried cheek swabs and many non-standard samples can remain suitable for testing when stored in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
The condition and type of sample will affect how long usable DNA can be preserved.
What shipping options are available for DNA test kits?
Validity Genetics offers several shipping options for DNA testing kits, depending on the destination and available delivery services.
Free Standard Shipping: USPS or FedEx 2Day, depending on delivery availability.
FedEx Next Business Day Shipping: Available for an additional $45.
International Shipping: Available for an additional $75.
Electronic Instructions: Available for discreet testing. Choose this option at checkout.
Shipping options and availability may vary depending on the delivery address, carrier schedules, weekends, and holidays.
For eligible infidelity and forensic DNA tests, customers may also select Electronic Instructions at checkout if they prefer to collect and ship their own samples without receiving a physical collection kit.
Where should I send my DNA samples?
Samples being mailed directly to our laboratory should be sent to:
Validity Genetics Services
500 S Main St
Las Cruces, NM 88001
Please include your order information and follow the collection and shipping instructions provided in the Order Confirmation Email for your specific test.
We recommend using a shipping service with tracking.
Can DNA samples be collected from people living at different addresses?
Yes. For eligible home relationship DNA tests, we offer a Split Kit option that allows collection materials to be sent to different addresses.
An additional $25 fee applies for each extra shipping address.
This option is not available for infidelity DNA testing.
How long do I have to submit my DNA samples after purchasing a test?
Validity Genetics DNA testing orders are valid for six months from the original purchase date.
We recommend collecting and submitting your samples as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.
If your samples have not been submitted within six months, please contact us before shipping them to confirm the status of your order.
Results, Turnaround Times & Sample Retention
How long does DNA testing take?
Turnaround times depend on the type of testing performed.
Home and legal relationship DNA testing: Generally 2–3 business days after laboratory receipt and check-in.
Infidelity and forensic DNA testing: Generally 5–7 business days after laboratory receipt and check-in.
Some specialized tests or samples requiring additional analysis may take longer.
Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and holidays.
Is rush DNA testing available?
Yes. Rush testing is available for many of our services, depending on the test type and number of samples.
Eligible rush orders may be completed by the next business day after laboratory check-in.
Rush testing must be arranged before samples are received and testing begins.
Contact us for rush testing availability and pricing.
How will I receive my DNA test results?
DNA test results are delivered electronically as a PDF document to the email address associated with the order.
Results and testing information are provided to the purchaser unless written authorization has been received to release them to another person.
Printed copies are available for an additional fee.
Can I receive a printed copy of my DNA test results?
Yes. DNA test results are normally delivered electronically as a PDF document to the email address associated with the order.
Customers who prefer a printed copy of their results may purchase our Hard Copy Results service for $45.
How long will the laboratory hold my samples before testing?
Once samples arrive at our laboratory, they are checked in and held for up to 90 days while awaiting any additional samples, required information, or customer instructions necessary to proceed with testing.
If all required samples or information are not received within this period, the samples may be disposed of without further notice.
We recommend submitting all required samples and paperwork as soon as possible to avoid delays or sample disposal.
If you anticipate a delay, please contact us before the 90-day period expires.
How long are DNA samples retained after testing?
Sample retention depends on the type of sample submitted and the testing performed.
Non-Standard Samples (NSS): Items such as clothing, bedding, toothbrushes, and other personal belongings are retained for 30 days after testing.
After this period, samples may be destroyed or disposed of according to laboratory procedures.
If you anticipate needing additional testing or would like your samples retained longer, please contact us before the 30-day retention period expires to request an extension.
Oral Cheek Swabs: Oral swabs are generally consumed or disposed of during the testing process and are not retained for future physical sample testing.
Previously developed DNA profiles may remain available for additional comparisons, depending on the testing performed and the laboratory's retention policies.
Can I have my DNA samples returned after testing?
Yes. Eligible non-standard samples may be returned after testing through our Sample Return Service for $45.
If you have purchased this service and do not require additional testing, please contact us to confirm your return shipping address before the samples are shipped.
Some samples may be consumed, damaged, or destroyed during laboratory analysis and may not be available for return.
Sample returns must be arranged before the applicable retention period expires.
Can my DNA profile be used for additional testing?
In many cases, previously developed DNA profiles may be available for use in additional comparisons.
This can sometimes eliminate the need to collect a new reference sample.
Availability depends on the original testing, the profile retained, and the type of additional analysis requested.
What happens if a DNA sample does not contain enough DNA for testing?
Some samples may contain insufficient DNA, degraded DNA, or mixtures that cannot produce a usable genetic profile.
This is more common with non-standard samples, particularly items that have been washed, exposed to moisture or heat, or handled by multiple people.
If a sample does not produce sufficient DNA for the requested analysis, additional testing or a different sample may be recommended.
Successful DNA recovery cannot be guaranteed for every sample.
Ordering, Payments & Legal DNA Testing
What is the difference between an at-home and legal DNA test?
At-home DNA tests are intended for personal information and peace of mind.
Participants collect their own samples, typically using cheek swabs, and return them to the laboratory for testing.
Legal DNA tests require identity verification, documented sample handling, and collection procedures that follow chain-of-custody requirements.
These additional procedures are necessary when results may be used for court proceedings, immigration matters, or other legal purposes.
Learn more about Legal DNA Testing.
Can DNA testing be used for immigration purposes?
Yes. DNA testing may be requested by immigration authorities to help establish a claimed biological relationship.
Immigration DNA testing must follow the procedures specified by the requesting authority and applicable laboratory accreditation requirements.
Validity Genetics coordinates eligible immigration testing through qualified laboratory partners.
Learn more about US Immigration and Visa DNA Testing.
What payment methods does Validity Genetics accept?
Validity Genetics accepts major credit and debit cards, along with supported digital payment methods such as PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Flexible installment payment options may also be available through supported payment providers (AfterPay, PayPal Pay in 4, etc), depending on eligibility and the payment methods displayed during checkout.
We do not accept cash or personal checks.
All available payment options will be displayed during the checkout process.
Can I order a DNA test without receiving a physical kit?
Yes. For eligible infidelity and forensic DNA testing services, customers can select Electronic Instructions at checkout.
This option allows customers to receive sample collection and shipping instructions electronically without having a physical kit shipped to their address.
Can I cancel my DNA testing order?
Cancellation and refund eligibility depend on the order status, services purchased, and the terms of our Refund & Cancellation Policy.
Certain processing fees and additional services may be non-refundable.
Please review our current Refund & Cancellation Policy before ordering or contact us if you have questions about an existing purchase.
Still Have Questions About DNA Testing?
If you are unsure which DNA test is right for your situation, our team can help explain the available options and recommend an appropriate service based on the individuals or samples involved.
Whether you need a paternity test, sibling DNA test, infidelity DNA analysis, semen detection, or forensic relationship testing, Validity Genetics is here to help.
Contact Validity Genetics or email Info@ValidityGenetics.com for assistance.
