DNA testing is a widely available service in California, used for determining parentage, tracing family history, and assessing health risks. The final price for a DNA test is not fixed; instead, it varies significantly based on the test’s purpose and the procedures required to process the genetic sample. Understanding these variables is the first step in accurately budgeting for the cost.
Variables That Determine DNA Test Pricing
The final price of a DNA test is influenced by several factors that affect the complexity and speed of the laboratory work. One common cost add-on is a rush fee, which requires the lab to prioritize the sample for expedited processing. Standard results may take a week or more, while express services can often deliver results in one to three business days for an additional charge.
The number of individuals participating also directly increases the final cost, as each person’s DNA requires separate collection and analysis. Similarly, the type of sample submitted can affect the price. A standard cheek swab is the cheapest option, but non-standard samples like hair or blood strains require complex forensic extraction processes, which carry a higher fee. Finally, the quality of the test, measured by the number of genetic markers analyzed, can push the price higher, with more comprehensive panels costing more.
Specific Price Ranges for Common DNA Tests
For residents seeking basic genetic answers without legal requirements, the costs for common “peace of mind” tests fall into distinct ranges. A standard non-legal paternity or maternity test, which typically involves a simple cheek swab collection, generally costs between $130 and $220. This price covers the laboratory analysis for one alleged parent and one child for personal knowledge only.
Ancestry and genealogy kits, commonly purchased online and completed at home, are often the least expensive type of DNA test. Basic kits that provide ethnicity estimates and relative matching usually range from $59 to $119. These tests use single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis to compare an individual’s genetic data against large reference populations and customer databases.
For health-related screening, such as carrier status testing, the costs are more varied and often involve clinical oversight. Expanded carrier screening panels typically start around $250 to $300 for self-pay patients. Advanced diagnostic or comprehensive genomic health screenings can cost well over $2,000. These clinical tests often look at hundreds of genes and may be covered by insurance if deemed medically necessary.
The Cost Difference Between Legal and At-Home Testing
The most significant price difference arises from whether the test is for personal “peace of mind” use or for a legal purpose. While a non-legal paternity test costs under $220, a court-admissible, legal paternity test typically ranges from $300 to $600. This difference is entirely due to procedural requirements mandated for court acceptance.
Legal DNA testing requires a strict chain-of-custody protocol to ensure the integrity of the sample and the identity of the tested parties. This process includes having a trained, neutral third-party collector verify the identities of all participants using government-issued identification and directly supervise the sample collection. The collector seals the samples and completes all necessary legal documentation and notarization, which is then sent directly to an accredited laboratory, such as one certified by the AABB. This rigorous verification process creates the price increase necessary for the results to be accepted in family court, for child support, or for immigration cases.
Locating and Scheduling DNA Testing Services in California
DNA testing services are widely accessible across California, with options ranging from national commercial laboratories to local, specialized clinics. Major companies like Labcorp, Choice DNA, and DDC operate numerous collection sites in metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Fresno. These facilities usually require an appointment for in-office collection, which is necessary for all legal testing and many clinical health screenings.
For convenience, some specialized providers also offer mobile sample collection services, where a certified technician travels to a home or office to perform the necessary collection procedure. The logistical ease of at-home kits is managed through online ordering, where the collection kit is mailed directly to the user’s address. Turnaround times for non-legal tests are typically short, often between two and five business days after the lab receives the sample.