Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs on DNA Specimen Collection
- What if my sample is rejected?
This would be an uncommon situation. We will notify you and provide instructions for a replacement kit for recollection.
- Do I get confirmation when my sample arrives at the lab?
Yes. You will receive an email notifications upon receipt of your sample.
- Can I provide my sample at a clinic?
Yes, if you choose professional or legal DNA testing services. You may also schedule a collection appointment for non-legal testing at our corporate collection office in Beaverton, Oregon.
- Is my personal data safe?
Yes! We always follow strict privacy protocols and don’t share your information.
- Can I test a deceased person’s DNA?
Yes, in many cases. Contact us at 1-855-DNA-Lab4u (362-5224) to discuss your circumstances prior to ordering a test.
- Can I reuse a swab?
No. Use a fresh swab for each sample to avoid contamination.
- What if I live outside the U.S.?
We ship internationally. We accept samples from the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
- Is professional collection more accurate?
Not necessarily. Home swabs are just as accurate when instructions are followed properly.
- Can I collect DNA if someone is sick?
Yes. Illness doesn’t affect the DNA in cheek cells.
- How long does it take to get results after mailing the sample?
For most tests, we return results within 1-2 business days after receiving your sample.
- Can I use expired swabs?
No. Expired swabs may not preserve DNA effectively.
- Where do I send the completed kit?
Ship it to the address using the provided pre-paid label. If you are shipping from outside of the United States, the address to send your samples to will in the instructions.
- What if I make a mistake?
Contact us at 1-855-DNA-Lab4u (362-5224) or email us at info@dnalab4u.com for replacement swabs or guidance.
- Should I label the samples?
Yes. Use the envelopes provided to identify each sample clearly and correctly.
- Can I touch the tip of the swab?
No. Touching the tip may contaminate the sample and reduce accuracy.
- How many swabs are required?
Our DNA kits include four swabs per person to ensure sample quality.
- What is chain of custody?
Chain of custody ensures a verified, documented process during sample collection for legal admissibility.
- Do I need a doctor to collect my DNA sample?
Not for at-home tests. Legal tests require a trained, approved collector to maintain chain of custody.
- Can food or drink affect the sample?
Yes. Food or drink will not alter a person's DNA but it can affect the sample quality. That’s why it’s important to rinse your mouth and wait at least 30 minutes after eating.
- Do I need to fast before collecting a sample?
No fasting is necessary, but avoid eating, drinking, or smoking 30 minutes before collection.
- How long do DNA samples remain usable?
If stored properly, dry swabs can remain viable for weeks or even months. However, we recommend sending the DNA samples as soon as possible after collection to ensure the best results.
- How should I store the swabs before mailing them?
Keep the swabs dry and store them in the provided envelope until you mail them.
- Can children or infants be swabbed?
Yes. Buccal swabbing is safe for all ages, including infants and toddlers.
- Is the collection process painful?
No. It’s completely painless and non-invasive.
- How do I collect a DNA sample at home?
Use the sterile swabs provided, rub the inside of each cheek for 30 seconds, and follow the kit instructions.
- Is cheek swab collection accurate?
Yes. A buccal swab provides DNA just as accurate as a blood sample for most tests.
- What samples can be used for DNA testing?
The most common sample is a buccal (cheek) swab, but blood, hair, or other bodily materials can also be used. You can see a list of suggeted samples that are not mouth swabs at Alterantive DNA Samples.
- What is DNA specimen collection?
DNA specimen collection involves gathering a biological sample, usually a cheek swab, to extract and analyze DNA.