Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs on Sibling Testing
- What is a sibling DNA test?
A sibling DNA test compares the DNA of two siblings to determine if they share a biological parent(s). It analyzes specific genetic markers to determine the likelihood that the siblings are full siblings or half-siblings. This test is used to confirm sibling relationships when other direct testing options, like paternity tests, are not an option.
- Why would someone need a sibling DNA test?
People use this test to confirm biological sibling relationships when the suspected father's DNA is unavailable or he is deceased. This relationship test indirectly establishes paternity.
- Can a sibling DNA test determine paternity?
Indirectly, yes. If the father is unavailable, sibling testing can confirm, or eliminate, paternity through full or half-sibling testing. To learn more, click the link below.
Full and Half-Sibling Testing Explained
- How accurate is sibling testing?
Our sibling test results are 100% accurate. They are determined only from the DNA samples submitted for examination, unlike many of the ancestry type tests.
Sibling testing using Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis focuses on comparing specific regions of DNA between the alleged sibling to confirm biological siblingship. STR testing looks at repeat sequences that are inherited from both parents, providing a clear match or mismatch for the relationship. In contrast, ancestry testing like 23andMe examines a broader range of genetic markers to attempt to trace family heritage and ethnic origins, but cannot conclusively establish direct biological relationships.
- Is the test reliable without a parent’s sample?
Yes. Although including a parent may increases the overall strength of the test, our lab can still produce accurate results with sibling DNA alone.
- Can the results prove someone is not a sibling?
Yes. The test can exclude individuals as biological siblings. The results will be 100% accurate, as they are based only on the DNA profiles of those who have submitte their DNA for testing.
- Can I include more than two siblings in one test?
Yes. You can test additional siblings for the same type of DNA test you are ordering. Additional fees will apply for each additional sibling.
- Is this test available in all states?
Yes. We serve all 50 U.S. states for home DNA testing, and also offer international shipping to Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. Legal DNA testing is available in all United States except New York, without a court, lawyer, or physcian order. In New York state ONLY, a court order, lawyer request, or doctor's script (Rx), is required to perform a legal DNA test. Many New York residents make the choice to be tested in a neighboring state if they choose not to obtain the permission required under New York law.
- Is the mother’s DNA required?
It’s not required. Including the mother’s DNA may improve the strength of the test in some cases. We do not charge any additional lab processing fees if the mother's DNA is submitted with the other DNA samples.
- How much does a sibling DNA test cost?
Two siblings will pay $139 for a home sibling DNA test and $299 for a legal sibling DNA test . The price is all inclusive. There are no additional fees.
- How are samples collected?
Each person uses a cheek swab to collect DNA from the inside of their mouth for private, at home DNA testing. For legal testing, a trained professional DNA collector will verify identities of those who are giving a sample of their DNA, and collect it using a mouth swab.
- Is the test confidential?
Yes. We follow strict privacy and security standards for every sample. You can learn about how we protect your information by clicking on the Privacy link below.
- How long does it take to get results?
You can expect results in 2 business days after the lab receives all samples. If an alternative DNA sample is used, a viability test is necessary prior to standard sibling testing.
- Can the test be used in court?
Yes, but only if you request a legal sibling DNA test with proper chain of custody.
- Can we test from different locations?
Yes. We can send separate kits to each person’s address for convenience for home testing, and we can schedule those being testing for legal DNA results at a collection center nearest their location. We have over 3,500 DNA collection partners in the United States, and all are trained for AABB legal paternity and family relationship testing.
- Can I take the test if I live outside the U.S.?
Yes. We international shipping and testing options to Canada, United Kingdom. and Australia. We also offer a Make Your Own Kit (MYOK) option to remove the cost of international shipping of the kit to those testing. To learn more about the MYOK option, click the link below.
- Do I need government ID to take a legal test?
Yes. Legal tests require photo ID and proper documentation to meet court standards. Proper identification is defined by a current government issued identification document including a dirver's license, state ID card, military ID, or a passport.
- Will this test help with immigration cases?
Sibling tests cansupport family-based immigration petitions. We recommend always consulting with an attorney regarding your specific case. Learn more about immigration DNA testing by clicking the link below.
- Can I use this test to confirm adoption records?
Yes. Many adoptees use sibling DNA tests to verify biological connections.