MAY 11, 2017

Paternity Test NYC: How-to’s for New Yorkers

Are you considering a paternity test in NYC sometime soon? If so, here is some super-important info you need to know about DNA testing for New Yorkers. The rules are different from the rest of the country, so save yourself money, time, and disappointment by knowing what those rules are, as dictated by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Upstate or downstate, the requirements are the same. And here they are…

Paternity Test NYC: At-Home DNA Testing is not an Option

The New York State Department of Health only allows paternity collection for DNA testing to be performed by an approved DNA Collector. This means that at-home collection where participants are responsible for self-swabbing their own cheeks is not an option. That being said, you can still get a paternity-test kit on drugstore shelves in New York, but you must contact the lab first to set up a legal paternity test before collecting your DNA.

Paternity Test NYC: All Testing Must be Legal Testing

At-home DNA testing is not allowed for a New York paternity test, but a legal test is perfectly fine! All chain-of-custody steps required for court-admissible testing must be followed, including:

• The lab sends testing materials directly to an approved DNA collection facility to ensure these materials have not been tampered with
• Test participants must show ID at the facility to verify their identities and/or the DNA collector may take photographs
• The collector performs or witnesses each test participant’s cheek-swabbing and places swabs in individual sample envelopes
• The collector completes all paperwork and is responsible for mailing both paperwork and DNA samples to the lab for testing

Paternity Test NYC: All Tests Must be Requested by an Agent

Once your DNA collection appointment is set up by the lab as part of your legal paternity test, you need to obtain authorization to test from an agent (such as a doctor, lawyer, or officer of the court). The requirement is mandated by the NYSDOH and New York is the only state with this rule for legal testing. The lab does not contact this agent—this is something the principal test participant is responsible for.

Final Thoughts about Testing in New York

Yes, there are a few more hoops to jump through for a NY paternity test, but getting the answers you need are well worth the effort. We hold a Clinical Laboratory Permit from the New York State Department of Health, which permits us to perform tests originating from New York. DDC is a trusted, accredited lab for DNA testing in the Empire State and all across the country—our friendly, knowledgeable staff make the process as simple as possible and, once we receive your samples, results are posted securely in just one (1) business day.

About DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)

DNA Diagnostic Center is the world leader in paternity and relationship testing. We serve healthcare professionals, government agencies, and individuals around the world to determine family relationships with trusted accuracy.

More Questions? Don’t hesitate to call us: we’re here to help!