Twin DNA Test

Typically twins are classified as identical or fraternal by a doctor at birth, based on physical observations and placental analysis, though these methods aren’t always accurate. A twin DNA test (also known as a twin zygosity test) can definitively confirm whether twins are identical or fraternal. DDC’s Twin DNA Test compares the genetic markers of each twin to determine whether or not their genetic profiles match, and can be utilized by twins of all ages.
Accredited Relationship Testing
CAP Accredited
NATA World Recognized Accredited
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments
ANAB Accredited
Ministry of Justice

Accreditations apply to legal DNA tests under scope

The Importance of DNA Testing for Twins

Parents of twins and/or adult twins often utilize twin DNA tests for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Curiosity: This information can satisfy personal curiosity and help twins understand more about their shared genetic traits and differences.
  • Medical and/or Health Reasons: Identical twins share the same genetic makeup. If one identical twin has health issues or a medical condition, the other may be at higher risk as well. Knowing their genetic status can guide preventive measures and appropriate medical care.
  • Lost Records: Relationship testing can provide definitive answers about zygosity in situations where records are lost or unclear.
Twins DNA Test

Twin DNA Testing Options

DDC offers two different types of DNA testing for twins: legal tests and at-home tests.

Legal Twin DNA Tests

This type of twin zygosity DNA test offers court-admissible results. To ensure the proper chain of custody is followed, all tested parties are required to have their DNA samples collected at a certified facility like DNA Diagnostics Center, a hospital, medical office, or health department. The sample collector is also required to verify the identities of all tested parties through either government ID or other legal documents.

At-Home Twin DNA Tests

This type of twin zygosity DNA test does not offer court-admissible results. If you are seeking a twin DNA test solely for personal knowledge, you may want to consider an at-home test. At-home relationship testing is just as accurate as legal testing, as the DDC lab adheres to the same stringent processes. However, since the identities of the tested parties are not verified and chain-of-custody is not maintained, the results are not admissible in court.

Reliable Twin DNA Testing Through DDC

When you choose a world leader like DDC for your twin DNA testing needs, you can rely on accurate results. Our US-based laboratory holds the highest level of accreditations available, including AABB, CAP, and CLIA certifications.

Results in 2 Business Days

Once all samples arrive at the lab.

PhD-Reviewed Results

Our in-house team ensures accuracy.

Team Support

We keep you informed every step of the way.

Over 25 Years of Experience in DNA Relationship Testing

For decades, customers have trusted us with over 20 million DNA tests. Our expert laboratory technicians ensure your legal paternity test results are accurate for the samples provided.

AAB-Accredited

AABB-ACCREDITED

First and only test accredited by the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies

American Pregnancy Association

American Pregnancy Association

The only test endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association

25 Years

25 Years

Over 25 years of experience in DNA relationship testing

How the Twin DNA Testing Process Works

We make the testing process easy by offering flexible options that meet your needs. Our customer support representatives are available throughout the duration of the process.

Step 1: Give Us a Call

To initiate the twin DNA testing process, call our experts for a free consultation. Our representatives can help you navigate your unique situation and determine which test best suits the needs of both twins.

CALL NOW: 1.800.681.7162

Step 2: Collect the DNA Sample(s)

If you opt for an at-home twin test, we’ll send a complete test kit right to your doorstep in discreet packaging. Simply collect the DNA samples with the provided cheek swabs (or other allowable sample types) from both tested parties, and return them in the prepaid mailer.

If you order a legal twin DNA test, both tested parties can easily provide their DNA sample in-person at one of our 5000+ collection locations worldwide. Multiple appointments can be set up in different locations if necessary.

Step 3: Your Test is Carefully Processed

Our laboratory technicians carefully handle and prepare your DNA samples for processing. Every DDC relationship test that utilizes buccal (cheek) swab samples is run two separate times by independent teams. The results are then reviewed by our in-house team of PhDs and your report is prepared.

Step 4: Receive Your Results Online

Once the twin DNA testing process is complete, we will send you an email, allowing you to log in to our secure website and view or download your results. Your test results are completely confidential, and your private genetic information is never shared with or sold to outside parties. See our privacy policy here.

DNA Test for Twins

We Are Your Twin Zygosity Test Experts

For decades, customers have trusted us with over 20 million DNA tests. DDC performs thousands of relationship tests each year, including:

CALL NOW: 1.800.681.7162

FAQs About Twin DNA Tests

Below are some frequently asked questions about DNA testing for twins.

My Twins Had Separate Placentas, Does That Mean They’re Fraternal?

Twins with separate placentas are not always fraternal. Only a twin zygosity DNA test can confirm the exact relationship between twins. Before the widespread use of DNA testing, medical professionals (and therefore parents) assumed that if twins had their own amniotic sacs and their own placentas, then they must be fraternal – now we know this is not always true.

Fraternal twins come from two eggs being fertilized by two sperm, and identical twins come from a single fertilized egg that splits in two.

BUT :
If the fertilized egg splits (identical twins) before the placenta and amniotic sac starts to form (around days 2 or 3), then each baby develops its own sac and placenta. So what could look like fraternal twins to a doctor’s eye could actually be a set of identical twins!

Learn More

Can Results from a Home Twin DNA Test Be Used for Legal Reasons?

Results from at-home twin DNA tests cannot be used as proof of a biological relationship for legal reasons such as child support, custody, Social Security, etc. At-home results cannot be used because the DNA sample is typically collected by the test participants themselves or a parent. This means chain-of-custody protocol cannot be followed, and the identities of tested parties cannot be independently verified.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Limit for a Twin DNA Test?

No, there is no minimum or maximum age limit for a twin DNA test. Testing is routinely performed for newborn, toddler, teen, and adult twins.

What Is the Genetic Difference Between Fraternal and Identical Twins?

Identical twins, from one fertilized egg that splits, share nearly 100% of their genetic identity, leading to a strong visual resemblance. Fraternal twins, from two separate eggs fertilized by different sperm, share about 50% of their genes, like regular siblings. Unlike identical twins, fraternal twins can be different sexes and may not look similar.

What Type of Sample Is Collected in a Legal Twin DNA Test?

For legally-admissible twin DNA testing, one of our customer support representatives will set up a witnessed DNA-collection appointment on your behalf at an approved facility near you. At this appointment (or separate appointments upon request), the tested parties will provide a DNA sample via cheek swab.

Reviews About Our DNA Tests

Reach Out to an Expert at DDC Today!

Call our relationship testing experts today for your free, confidential consultation!

Reach Us

Have questions or need assistance? Contact our team.

DNA Technology Park
1 DDC Way
Fairfield, OH 45014

Leave A Message