How Long Does a DNA Test Take for Different Types of Testing?

How long does a DNA test take? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of test, the lab’s processing time, and whether expedited services are available.

DNA testing is a powerful tool for unlocking genetic secrets, whether you're seeking answers about your ancestry, proving paternity, or solving a forensic case. However, the waiting game can be frustrating, especially when the stakes are high.

While most people assume DNA results are instant, Hollywood’s portrayal of crime labs and ancestry reveals is often misleading. In reality, DNA testing is a complex process requiring precision, rigorous quality control, and compliance with legal regulations.

This article will break down the timeline for different types of DNA tests, explore the factors affecting turnaround times, and provide insight into getting faster results.

Factors That Affect DNA Test Turnaround Time

Waiting for DNA test results can feel like an eternity, especially when the outcome has life-changing implications.

Whether you're testing for paternity, ancestry, or forensic purposes, understanding the factors that influence how long it takes to get results can help set realistic expectations.

Several key elements impact DNA test turnaround times. Here's a closer look at what affects the process:

1. Type of DNA Test

Not all DNA tests are created equal, and different types require different processing times. A basic paternity test, for example, is relatively straightforward and can often be completed within a few days.

On the other hand, an in-depth ancestry test, which involves analyzing many genetic markers to determine ethnic origins and migration patterns, can take several weeks.

Forensic DNA testing—used in criminal investigations or legal cases—can take even longer, sometimes stretching into months due to the complexity of the analysis and the need for accuracy.

2. Sample Collection Method

The type of biological sample submitted plays a major role in processing speed. Cheek swabs and saliva samples are the easiest and fastest to analyze, requiring minimal preparation.

Blood samples, while highly accurate, take slightly longer because they require additional handling in the lab.

If the sample comes from forensic evidence—such as a hair strand, old bone, or degraded tissue—it can take significantly longer to extract usable DNA, requiring specialized techniques to amplify and analyze the genetic material.

3. Lab Processing Time and Prioritization

Every lab has its own workflow, and processing time can vary depending on their protocols and workload. Some labs specialize in rapid testing, while others process samples in large batches, which can cause delays.

Labs handling legal or forensic cases often prioritize those samples, meaning ancestry and personal DNA tests might take longer.

Additionally, labs that receive a high volume of tests may experience backlogs, particularly during peak times, such as around the holidays when demand for ancestry kits spikes.

4. Legal vs. Non-Legal Tests

If your DNA test is for legal purposes—such as establishing paternity for a court case, immigration requirements, or child custody proceedings—it will take longer than a non-legal, at-home test.

This is because legal DNA tests must follow strict chain-of-custody procedures to ensure the integrity of the sample.

This process involves collecting the sample under supervised conditions, documenting every step, and maintaining strict handling protocols, which add extra time to the process.

5. Shipping and Logistics

Once your DNA sample is collected, it must be shipped to a laboratory for processing. If the lab is located in another state or country, shipping times can add days to the total wait.

International shipments may take even longer due to customs processing. Additionally, weather disruptions, holiday delays, or postal service slowdowns can all impact how quickly your sample reaches the lab.

6. Expedited vs. Standard Testing

Many DNA testing companies offer expedited services for an additional fee. If you need results urgently, paying for rush processing can significantly speed up turnaround time, sometimes cutting the wait down to 24 to 48 hours.

Standard testing, however, follows a first-come, first-served process, which may take weeks depending on lab workload and sample complexity.

How Long Different Types of DNA Tests Take

Paternity Testing

Paternity tests are among the most common DNA tests and have one of the shortest turnaround times.

• Standard paternity tests: Typically take 3-5 business days after the lab receives the sample.

• Legal paternity tests: Require strict chain-of-custody documentation and take 5-7 business days to process.

• At-home paternity kits: Results may take 5-10 business days, depending on shipping time.

• Expedited paternity tests: Some labs offer 24-hour results for an additional fee.

If both parties live in different states, some labs allow split testing—each person can submit their sample from a different location, slightly increasing processing time.

Ancestry and Genealogy DNA Testing

Companies like AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage offer genetic testing to trace family origins, but results take longer due to the vast amount of data analyzed.

• Autosomal DNA tests: Generally take 3-8 weeks due to database matching.

• Y-DNA and mtDNA tests: Used for deep ancestry tracking, these tests take 4-12 weeks because they analyze fewer genetic markers but require more processing.

Most ancestry companies process samples in batches, meaning if you submit your sample just before a scheduled batch processing, you might get results faster than someone who submits right after a batch closes.

Health and Carrier Screening DNA Tests

Health-related DNA tests analyze genetic risks for diseases or carrier status for inherited conditions.

• Genetic health risk tests: Companies like 23andMe and Color Genomics provide results in 2-6 weeks.

• Carrier screening: These tests check for inherited conditions and take 1-3 weeks.

• Whole genome sequencing: This comprehensive test takes 4-8 weeks due to the sheer volume of data analyzed.

Some labs prioritize high-risk health screenings, such as BRCA genetic testing for breast cancer, offering results in 1-2 weeks.

Forensic and Crime Scene DNA Testing

Forensic DNA testing is used in criminal investigations, cases of missing persons, and disaster victim identification.

• Standard forensic DNA analysis: Results typically take 1-2 weeks.

• Rapid DNA testing: Some cases can be solved within 90 minutes to 24 hours, but only in specific scenarios with high-quality samples.

• Cold case or degraded sample testing: Can take weeks to months, depending on the complexity and condition of the DNA.

The FBI and some law enforcement agencies use Rapid DNA analyzers, which can process a sample in under 2 hours—but only for specific high-priority cases.

Immigration and Legal DNA Testing

DNA testing is sometimes required for visa or citizenship applications to prove biological relationships.

• Immigration DNA tests: Typically take 4-6 weeks, including government approval time.

• Court-admissible legal DNA tests: Require strict documentation, taking 5-10 business days.

U.S. embassies often have pre-approved DNA testing labs that can process samples faster than standard labs.

Prenatal DNA Testing

Prenatal DNA testing allows parents to establish paternity before birth.

• Non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP): Takes 7-10 business days and requires a maternal blood sample.

• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis: Results take 1-3 weeks but come with some medical risks.

NIPP is 99.9% accurate and can be performed as early as 7 weeks into pregnancy, making it a game-changer for early paternity disputes.

Pet and Animal DNA Testing

Animal DNA testing is commonly used for breed identification and genetic health screening.

• Dog or cat breed tests: Results take 2-4 weeks.

• Equine and livestock DNA testing: Can take 2-6 weeks, depending on the breed and complexity.

Some pet DNA testing companies also offer behavioral trait analysis based on genetic markers.

 

How to Get Faster DNA Test Results

Waiting for DNA test results can feel like an eternity, especially when you need answers fast.

Whether it’s for legal reasons, medical concerns, or personal peace of mind, there are a few steps you can take to speed up the process.

Here’s how to get your results as quickly as possible:

1. Choose a Lab That Offers Express Testing

Not all DNA testing services work at the same pace. Some labs provide expedited options, offering same-day or 24-hour processing for an additional fee.

If time is of the essence, look for a provider that advertises express or rush services. While this might cost a bit more, it can significantly reduce your wait time.

2. Go with a Lab That Handles Testing In-House

Some DNA companies outsource their testing to third-party labs, adding days (or even weeks) to the processing time. Choose a facility that does all the testing in-house to get results faster.

These labs typically have better control over turnaround times, allowing them to process samples more efficiently.

3. Make Sure Your Sample Is Collected Correctly

A simple mistake during sample collection can lead to contamination or an insufficient DNA sample, so you may have to redo the test.

To avoid unnecessary delays:

• Follow all collection instructions carefully.

• Wash your hands and avoid eating or drinking before collecting a saliva sample.

• If you’re using a cheek swab, rub it firmly against your cheek to collect enough cells.

• Store and ship the sample exactly as instructed by the lab.

A clean and properly collected sample ensures the lab can process it the first time without retesting.

4. Submit Your Sample During Off-Peak Times

DNA testing companies tend to be busiest during the holidays when many people order ancestry tests as gifts.

Due to child support and custody cases, paternity testing services may also experience higher demand around tax season.

If possible, plan your test outside these peak times to avoid potential backlogs that could slow down processing.

Conclusion

So, how long does a DNA test take? While some tests yield results in just 24 hours, others—like ancestry or forensic tests—can take weeks or even months.

The key to a smooth process is understanding the factors influencing turnaround time and choosing a reputable lab that meets your needs.

Whether you're solving a legal dispute, uncovering your heritage, or checking for health risks, knowing what to expect can make the waiting process easier.

For fast, accurate, and reliable DNA testing, turn to Countrywide Testing. We offer a wide range of at-home and legal DNA tests with quick turnaround times, ensuring you get the answers you need without unnecessary delays.

Plus, if you're looking for high-quality drug-testing products, we’re here to help. Contact Countrywide Testing today to see how we can support your needs and provide trusted DNA and drug testing solutions.

 

FAQs

How long does a paternity DNA test take?

A paternity test usually takes 2 to 5 business days once the lab gets the sample. Some labs offer faster results within 24 hours for an extra fee.

How long does an ancestry DNA test take?

An ancestry test can take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the company. These tests take longer because they analyze more genetic information.

How long does a forensic DNA test take?

A forensic DNA test can take a few days to several months, depending on the case. If the sample is old or damaged, it may take longer.

How long does a legal DNA test take?

Legal DNA tests usually take 3 to 7 business days since they follow strict rules for court use. The process can take longer if extra steps, like notarization, are needed.

How long does a health-related DNA test take?

Health DNA tests take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on what’s being tested. Some tests take longer because they check for multiple genetic conditions.