DNA Paternal Ancestry Test

The DNA Paternal Ancestry Test traces your direct paternal lineage using a Y-DNA STR analysis, revealing your family history on your father's side going back hundreds of generations. Available in Standard (20 markers), Advanced (44 markers), and Premium (101 markers) options, this at-home test uses a simple, painless cheek swab and delivers private, confidential results online.

DNA Paternal Ancestry Test, Key Features

• Y-DNA STR test traces your direct paternal lineage through your father's line
• Access to extensive global ancestry databases to match populations around the world
• Find long-lost relatives and discover ancient origins through the DNA Reunion Database
• Compare your DNA against famous historical figures including Genghis Khan, Marie Antoinette, and King Richard III
• Painless buccal (cheek) swab collection, no needles or clinic visit required
• Private, confidential online results

Important: This test can only be taken by males, as only males have Y-DNA. Females wishing to trace their paternal lineage must test a direct male line relative.

Test Options

• Standard Test, 20 STR markers
• Advanced Test, 44 STR markers
• Premium Test, 101 STR markers, highest resolution and most precise TMRCA calculation

Start with the Standard Test and upgrade to Advanced or Premium if higher resolution is needed — a cost-efficient approach. Men can also add a mitochondrial DNA test to concurrently trace both maternal and paternal lineage.

Four Ancestry Databases Included

• DNA Reunion Database, search for long-lost family lines, ideal for genealogists, adoptees, and those seeking biological relatives
• Indigenous DNA Database, determine which indigenous groups are most similar to your DNA type
• DNA Haplogroups Database, trace your ancestry back over 100,000 years to its ancient roots in Africa
• Famous DNA Database, compare your DNA to royalty and notable historical figures

What Is Y-DNA?

Y-DNA refers to the DNA on the male Y chromosome. Males inherit an X chromosome from their mother and a Y chromosome from their father. Very little recombination occurs between the X and Y chromosomes, so Y-DNA remains essentially unchanged through the paternal line, making it an ideal tool for tracing paternal ancestry across many generations.

How It Works

1. Order your DNA Paternal Ancestry Test kit online and receive it at home
2. Register and activate your kit, then collect your DNA sample using the painless cheek swab provided
3. Mail your sample to the lab in the prepaid return envelope
4. Receive your results securely online

Frequently Asked Questions

Can women take this test?
No. The DNA Paternal Ancestry Test analyzes Y-DNA, which only males carry. Women who want to trace their paternal lineage should ask a direct male line relative (father, brother, paternal uncle, or paternal male cousin) to take the test on their behalf.

What is TMRCA?
TMRCA stands for Time to Most Recent Common Ancestor. When two individuals share a similar Y-STR profile, TMRCA calculations estimate how many generations ago they shared a common paternal ancestor. Higher marker counts (44 or 101) provide more precise TMRCA estimates.

How long does it take to get results?
Results are delivered securely online after the laboratory receives and processes your sample. Turnaround times vary by test level — refer to your kit documentation for current processing times.

What sample does the kit use?
The test uses a buccal, or cheek, swab. Register and activate the kit, collect the sample according to the included instructions, and return it to the laboratory in the prepaid envelope provided.