How long does it take for a DNA test?

The number of days required for a DNA test depends on the type of test, the institution requesting the test and the options available.Below is a description of the number of days a typical appraisal takes.

1. Paternity test

For DNA testing to confirm parent-child relationships, the usual processing times are as follows

  • Standard paternity test: 1-3 weeks
  • Results are generally available within 1-3 weeks after the sample arrives, depending on the grading institute.During busy periods or when special processing is required, it may take longer.
  • Express service: 3-7 days
  • There is also an option to receive results in a shorter period of time for an additional fee.Express services usually provide results within three to seven days.

2. Legal paternity testing

Paternity appraisals used as legal evidence may take slightly longer due to the more rigorous procedures involved.

  • Standard legal paternity test: 2-4 weeks
  • Due to the rigorous sampling and testing process, it generally takes a little longer than a normal paternity test.

3. Other appraisals (e.g. sibling, grandparent and twin appraisals)

  • Standard inspection: 2-4 weeks
  • DNA testing other than paternity testing (e.g. sibling and grandparent testing) often takes slightly longer than paternity testing, as multiple samples are analysed.

4. genetic screening (assessment of genetic disease risk)

  • Standard genetic screening: 4-6 weeks
  • DNA screening to assess genetic disease risk takes a slightly longer time to produce results, as it requires a detailed analysis of several genes.

Summary

  • Standard paternity test: 1-3 weeks
  • Legal paternity test: 2-4 weeks
  • Other appraisals (e.g. siblings, grandparents, twinning): 2-4 weeks
  • Express service: 3-7 days

If the results of the appraisal are urgent, an express delivery option is available for an additional fee. When requesting an appraisal, it is important to check the laboratory’s response times and options.

Supervisor of the article


Dr. Hiroshi Oka

Director of CAP Laboratory

Graduated from Keio University, Faculty of Medicine

Doctor of Medicine

Medical Doctor