Are Paternity Tests Accurate? Signs You Might Need One

The DNA paternity testing process can inspire a lot of uncertainty, especially about the validity of their results. And even though DNA paternity tests have been around for years now, there are still a lot of questions surrounding the actual testing process.

Questions about how the tests work and if they’re accurate, as to how long it takes to get the results are quite common. The good news? The answers are actually simple!

So are the results of a DNA paternity test accurate? How does taking a DNA paternity test work? In this article, we’ll discuss the answers to those questions, and more, so that you can be as informed on the topic as possible.

Now then, let’s get started.

How Do Paternity Tests Work?

The DNA paternity testing process is actually quite simple. The facility in which you are being tested will acquire a DNA sample from the man, as well as the baby, and compare the results.

The DNA is usually obtained orally via a small swab of the cheek, so it’s a quick and painless process. This can also be done via blood samples, but obviously, that’s not as easy as a cheek swab, so it’s not as common.

Another common question about DNA tests is whether or not they can be mandatory by law? Yes, DNA paternity tests can be required by law, so if you need legal help obtaining one, consider hiring a lawyer.

How Accurate Are the Results?

The biggest question that people have about DNA paternity tests is in regards to the validity of the results of the tests themselves. The short answer? DNA tests are highly accurate and their results absolutely can be trusted.

In fact, positive DNA tests offer 99.9% accuracy and negative DNA paternity tests offer 100% accuracy. So, it’s pretty much a guaranteed answer, regardless of the outcome.

As long as you use a legitimate testing facility, and follow their protocols, you can have peace of mind in knowing that the results to the tests are as accurate as humanly possible.

When Will I Get the Results?

Finally, the last thing that people often want to know about DNA paternity tests is when they can expect to actually get the results.

Well, while the tests are nearly 100% accurate regardless of the outcome, it does take a bit of time to get the information back from the testing center.

If you’re looking to find out on the same day, we have some bad news, as DNA testing results will not offer an instant answer. You can expect to get the results from a DNA paternity test in 5-to-10 business days.