One of the most common questions people ask before getting tested is: How much does a DNA test cost in the USA?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of DNA test, whether it’s legal or non-legal, how fast you need the results, and how many people are being tested.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn:
- Average DNA test prices in the U.S.
- Cost differences between legal and non-legal tests
- Immigration DNA test pricing
- What affects the final cost
- How to save money on DNA testing
Average DNA Test Costs in the USA (Quick Overview)
Here’s a simple breakdown of typical DNA test prices in the United States:
| DNA Test Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Non-Legal Paternity Test | $120 – $200 |
| Legal Paternity Test | $250 – $500 |
| Immigration DNA Test (USCIS) | $400 – $900 |
| Sibling DNA Test | $250 – $500 |
| Grandparent DNA Test | $300 – $600 |
| Prenatal Paternity Test (NIPP) | $900 – $1,800 |
| Ancestry DNA Test | $69 – $199 |
| Health & Genetic Trait Test | $99 – $299 |
| Forensic DNA Test | Varies widely |
These are national averages. Prices may vary by state, city, and provider.
1. Paternity DNA Test Cost in the USA
Non-Legal (Peace-of-Mind) Paternity Test
This test is for personal knowledge only and cannot be used in court.
Average cost: $120 – $200
What’s included:
Cheek swabs, lab analysis, online results
Turnaround time: 2–5 business days
This is the most affordable option and is commonly purchased online or through local DNA centers.
Legal Paternity DNA Test
Required for court cases, child support, custody, or birth certificate changes.
Average cost: $250 – $500
Why it costs more:
- Chain-of-custody procedures
- ID verification
- Witnessed sample collection
- Legal documentation
Turnaround time: 3–7 business days
2. Immigration DNA Test Cost (USCIS & U.S. Embassy)
Immigration DNA testing is used when USCIS or a U.S. embassy requests biological proof of a family relationship.
Average cost: $400 – $900 per person
Requirements:
- Must be performed by an AABB-accredited laboratory
- Results are sent directly to USCIS or the embassy
Why it’s more expensive:
- International coordination
- Embassy scheduling
- Secure shipping
- Strict accreditation rules
Total processing time: 2–12 weeks
3. Relationship DNA Test Costs
These tests are used when the alleged parent is unavailable or when verifying extended family relationships.
Sibling DNA Test
Average cost: $250 – $500
Used to determine full or half-siblingship.
Grandparent DNA Test
Average cost: $300 – $600
Often used when the father is unavailable.
Aunt/Uncle (Avuncular) DNA Test
Average cost: $300 – $550
Used in immigration or inheritance cases.
Twin Zygosity Test
Average cost: $150 – $300
Determines identical vs fraternal twins.
4. Prenatal DNA Test Cost
A Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test (NIPP) determines paternity during pregnancy using the mother’s blood.
Average cost: $900 – $1,800
What’s included:
- Blood draw from mother
- Cheek swab from alleged father
- Advanced fetal DNA analysis
When it can be done: As early as 7–8 weeks of pregnancy
Result time: 5–8 business days
This is one of the most expensive DNA tests due to its complexity and advanced technology.
5. Ancestry & Ethnicity DNA Test Cost
These tests are popular for personal curiosity and genealogy research.
Average cost: $69 – $199
What you get:
- Ethnicity estimates
- DNA matches
- Migration history
Processing time: 3–8 weeks
Prices often drop during holiday sales like Black Friday.
6. Health & Genetic Trait DNA Test Cost
Health DNA tests analyze genetic markers linked to wellness and disease risk.
Average cost: $99 – $299
What they show:
- Carrier status for inherited conditions
- Disease risk probabilities
- Lifestyle and wellness traits
These tests are not diagnostic but can provide helpful insights.
7. Factors That Affect DNA Test Cost
Several things can increase or decrease the final price:
Legal vs Non-Legal Testing
Legal tests always cost more due to documentation and oversight.
Number of People Tested
Each additional person usually adds $100–$300.
Turnaround Time
Express or same-day processing can add $75–$300.
Sample Type
Special samples like prenatal blood or non-standard items cost more.
Accreditation
AABB-accredited labs often charge higher but are required for legal use.
8. Does Insurance Cover DNA Testing?
In most cases, health insurance does not cover DNA testing, especially for:
- Paternity tests
- Immigration DNA tests
- Ancestry tests
Some genetic health screenings ordered by a doctor may be partially covered, depending on your plan.
9. How to Save Money on DNA Testing
Here are practical ways to reduce costs:
- Choose non-legal testing if court results are not required
- Avoid express processing unless necessary
- Compare local DNA centers instead of ordering blindly online
- Ask about bundled pricing for multiple participants
- Watch for ancestry DNA sales
10. Are Cheap DNA Tests Reliable?
Yes, as long as the lab is reputable.
Accuracy depends on:
- Number of DNA markers tested
- Lab quality control
- Proper sample collection
However, cheap tests may not be accepted for legal or immigration purposes if they lack proper accreditation.
Most clinics charge between $150 and $500, depending on test type.
Yes, home tests are usually the cheapest option but are not legally valid.
Because it requires embassy coordination, international shipping, and AABB accreditation.
DNA test costs in the USA vary widely based on purpose and test type.
If you only need personal confirmation, a non-legal test is affordable.
If you need results for court or immigration, expect higher costs due to strict requirements.
Understanding pricing upfront helps you choose the right DNA test without surprises.