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Twin DNA Test

A twin DNA test (also known as a twin zygosity test) can definitively confirm whether twins are identical or fraternal.

Discreet
Convenient
Over 99.99% Accurate
Affordable

The Importance of DNA Testing for Twins

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. 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.

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.
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DNA Testing Options For Twins

DDC offers two different types of twin DNA tests: legal tests and at-home tests.

At-Home DNA Tests

This test does not offer court-admissible results. If you are seeking a twin DNA test solely for peace of mind, you may want to consider an at-home test. At-home relationship testing is just as accurate; the DDC lab follows the same strict processes that legal tests require, the only difference being that sample collection occurs at home, unwitnessed.

View home DNA sample report

DNA Testing With Reputable Accreditations

Accreditations apply to legal DNA tests under scope.

Reliable Twin DNA Testing Through DDC

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

Results in 2 Business Days

Once all samples arrive at the lab.

PhD-Reviewed Results

Our in-house experts ensure accuracy.

Team Support

Stay informed every step of the way.

Over 30 Years of Experience in DNA Relationship Testing

AABB-Accredited

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

American Pregnancy Association

The only test endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association.

30 Years

Over 30 years of experience in DNA relationship testing.

How the Twin Test Process Works

We make the twin DNA testing process easy by offering flexible options that meet your needs. Our customer support representatives are available to help you every step of the way.

Give Us a Call

To start the twin DNA testing process, call our experts for a no-obligation consultation. Our representatives can help you navigate your unique situation and determine which test (legal or at-home) best suits your needs.

Collect the DNA Sample(s)

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

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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 of your twin DNA test are then reviewed by our in-house team of PhDs and your report is prepared.

Receive Your Results Online

Once the twin DNA testing process is complete, we’ll send you an email that will allow you to log in to our secure website and view 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.

We Are Your Twin DNA Experts

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

FAQs About Twin DNA Tests

Below are some frequently asked questions about twin DNA tests.

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!

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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.

Find Locations Near You

Please call Call now: 1.877.241.6511 for international locations.

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

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