Questions
What is a paternity test?
A DNA test that shows whether a man is a child's biological father. It compares the child's DNA markers with his.
Which test do I need?
For your own answer, the at-home test. For court, child support or a birth certificate, the legal test. During pregnancy, the prenatal test, from 7 weeks. If the father can't take part, a relationship test.
How accurate is it?
Labs report a probability of paternity: normally above 99% when the man is the father, and 0% when he is not. When a result can be wrong.
Can a home test be used in court?
No. A court needs a legal test: a neutral collector checks ID, takes the samples and seals them for the lab.
Does the mother need to take part?
Not for a test after the birth, though including her makes the result stronger. A prenatal test needs her blood sample.
Can I test someone without their consent?
No. Every adult tested must agree, and a parent or legal guardian consents for a child. See consent.
Can I test a newborn?
Yes. A cheek swab works at any age and does not hurt.
Is it covered by insurance?
Usually not. Insurers treat paternity tests as not medically necessary.
Do you sell immigration DNA tests?
No. For a visa or passport case, the petitioner arranges the test directly with an AABB-accredited lab. How immigration DNA tests work.
Who sees the result?
The people tested, and anyone they name, such as their lawyer. We never sell or share DNA data.
Something else? Email help@clearpaternity.com.