Grandparent DNA Test

To confirm a biological relationship between a child and possible grandparent.

Want to confirm a biological relationship with a possible grandparent?

 Grandparent DNA testing is available to help prove a biological relationship. A person with parental responsibility for the child must consent to the test if the child is under 16. If the mother is available for testing, she is encouraged to add her DNA to the test to help expedite analysis and strengthen results. Whether you just want to know for your own peace of mind or obtain a report for legal reasons, we provide the accurate answers you need. The report is posted to your secure online account 7 business days after all samples have been received.

Contact our experts today for a free consultation.

The DDC Promise

Results in 7 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.

When set up as a legal case, results from a grandparent DNA test can be used for court.

Reasons to get a Grandparent DNA Test

  • To confirm the truth about a biological relationship
  • Medical history
  • Inheritance claims
  • Insurance claims
  • Immigration

Results are completely confidential, and your private genetic information is never shared with or sold to outside parties. See our privacy policy here.

Testing Options for Grandparent DNA Testing

Legal: Legal test results can be submitted to court as legal proof of a biological relationship. DDC helps you locate a DNA-sample collection provider near you. The professional collector then compiles all identification, completes paperwork for the test, and sends the package to DDC for testing.

Personal Knowledge: If you need the test results solely for peace of mind and not for legal reasons, you have the option to collect your DNA at home and send it to DDC for testing. Keep in mind results are not court-admissible.

TIP: If you think you may need results for court in the future, we suggest you do a legal test in the first place so you only have to test once.

To order a Grandparent DNA Test, call 0800 009 2969

More About Grandparent DNA Testing

Q: How accurate is a grandparent DNA test compared to a paternity test?

A: A grandparent DNA test is as accurate as a paternity test, although the conclusiveness of results varies more. For example, the probability of relationship between a father and child is almost always 99.9% or higher, but for a single-grandparent test (where only one paternal grandparent is tested instead of both paternal grandparents), the probability of relationship might be 92%—which is nevertheless still considered a conclusive result. To strengthen the conclusiveness of test results, we recommend that both paternal grandparents test—if possible—and that the child’s mother participate in testing as well. When both paternal grandparents and the mother participate in testing, probability of paternity is nearly always 99.9% or higher.

 

Q: Can we test using just one grandparent?

A: You can do this DNA test using samples from just one paternal grandparent and the child; however, the chances of obtaining conclusive results are reduced. If possible, we always recommend including the mother’s DNA in both single-grandparent and grandparentage (both paternal grandparents) DNA tests. Ideally, both paternal grandparents would test, along with the child and the mother.

Q: Can a grandparent DNA test be done without the mother?

A: Yes, a grandparent test can be done without the mother, although we highly recommend that the mother be included as well. Her participation helps the analysts to more clearly determine which of the child’s DNA comes from the father’s side and which comes from the mother and it can also help to strengthen the probability of relationship percentage.

Q: Can a grandparent DNA test be used for legal reasons?

A: Yes; a grandparent DNA test can be used for legal reasons as long as a chain-of-custody procedure has been set up and followed:

  • The test is ordered directly from DDC
  • DDC helps participants locate a qualified DNA-sample collector near them
  • Test participants provide proof of identity at the appointment and DNA-collection is witnessed
  • The collector signs paperwork and returns samples to DDC for testing

Results from a legal grandparent test are court-admissible and can be used for legal reasons such as inheritance rights, custody, and more. Results for an at-home grandparent DNA test cannot be used legally.

Q: Does the mother need to consent to a grandparent DNA test?
A: Whether the test is an at-home or a legal one, the responsibility is on the tested parties to ensure all parties and/or legal guardians agree to testing. See Section 4 (n) of DDC Terms and Conditions.