Paternity Testing in Pennsylvania: Legal Court-Admissible & At-Home DNA Tests
Paternity testing plays a crucial role in confirming biological relationships, resolving family disputes, and securing legal rights. Whether you need court-admissible DNA testing or a convenient at-home paternity test for personal peace of mind, GameDay DNA delivers accurate and trusted paternity testing services customized for your needs. This complete guide covers the types of tests available, pricing details, and answers to common questions about paternity testing in Pennsylvania.
Why Choose Accredited Paternity Testing Labs in Pennsylvania?
Accredited paternity testing guarantees precision and reliability. At GameDay DNA, we collaborate with AABB-accredited laboratories known for delivering legally defensible and accurate results. Whether you face custody battles or want to establish paternity informally, our testing meets the highest industry standards for quality and confidentiality.
Paternity Testing Locations Near Me in Pennsylvania
GameDay DNA offers extensive coverage across Pennsylvania through our trusted network of collection centers, including cities such as Altoona, Bedford, Corry, Dubois, Edinboro, Everett, Frackville, Gettysburg, Grampian, Greensburg, Greenville, Johnstown, Lords Valley, Marshall’s Creek, McConnellsburg, Muncy, Northumberland, North Versailles, Philadelphia, Reading, State College, Titusville, Towanda, Waynesboro, York, and more. Don’t see your city? Contact us to find your closest testing site.
How Much Does a Paternity Test Cost in Pennsylvania?
Pricing Overview
Legal Paternity Tests: $299–$599
Follow strict chain-of-custody procedures and are admissible in court for child support and custody claims.At-Home Paternity Tests: $179–$239
Affordable, user-friendly kits designed for personal knowledge. Not valid in court but highly accurate when processed in accredited labs.Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Tests (NIPP): $1,099–$2,000
Safe during pregnancy, NIPP can establish paternity as early as seven weeks with zero risk to mother or baby.
Other DNA Testing Services
Grandparent DNA Testing
Useful when a parent’s sample isn’t available. Confirms relationships by comparing genetic markers between child and grandparents.Sibling DNA Testing
Determines if individuals share one or both biological parents, confirming full or half-sibling status.Avuncular (Aunt/Uncle) DNA Testing
Establishes biological ties via an aunt or uncle when direct parent samples cannot be collected.
Step-by-Step Paternity Testing Procedures in Pennsylvania
Legal Testing Process
Sample Collection: Cheek swabs obtained at accredited facilities.
Chain-of-Custody: Samples securely handled to maintain court validity.
Lab Analysis: Advanced techniques with over 99% accuracy.
Results: Available in approximately 2 business days post-analysis.
At-Home Testing Process
Collect samples via cheek swabs from child, alleged father, and mother (if needed).
Send samples using prepaid packaging to an accredited lab.
Receive results securely within 2 business days.
Establishing Legal Paternity in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there are resources available to help individuals establish paternity and address related issues. One option is the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, which provides information and services related to child support and paternity establishment. They can assist with paternity testing, court orders, and legal processes. Additionally, legal professionals, such as family law attorneys, can offer guidance and representation for individuals involved in paternity cases. Establishing paternity is essential for determining parental rights, child support, and access to benefits, making these resources valuable for individuals in Pennsylvania dealing with paternity-related matters. Those in need of assistance can reach out to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services or consult with a family law attorney for support and information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paternity Testing in Pennsylvania
Can I get a paternity test near me in Pennsylvania?
Yes! GameDay DNA, court-approved labs, and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Child Support Enforcement (BCSE) offer legal and informational paternity testing. Legal paternity can only be established through an official Domestic Relations Section (DRS) or court-approved location—private test results generally are not admissible in court (Philadelphia Family Court Brochure; Fayette County DRS).
How much does a paternity test cost in Pennsylvania?
Legal/court-admissible DNA tests (court or DRS-ordered): $30–$60 per person for official court/DRS testing (Philadelphia Court Info; Fayette County DRS). If the alleged father is determined to be the parent, they are required to reimburse the county.
At-home/informational DNA kits: $179–$300 for informational only.
Prenatal (non-invasive/NIPP): $1099–$1,499 for NIPP (informational and court-admissible), from 7 weeks (GameDay DNA NIPP Pennsylvania)
What types of paternity tests are available in Pennsylvania?
Legal/court-ordered chain-of-custody DNA tests through DRS/court
At-home informational DNA kits
Non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP)
Grandparent, sibling, avuncular (aunt/uncle), and maternity DNA tests
See the BCSE FAQ and PA Establish Paternity Info.
Are legal paternity test results admissible in court in Pennsylvania?
Yes! Court/DRS-ordered DNA tests that meet chain-of-custody and expert certification standards are accepted as evidence in all Pennsylvania courts. A result with 99% probability creates a presumption of paternity (23 Pa.C.S. § 4343). Objections must be raised in writing before trial; the party contesting results may request and pay for a second test.
How long does it take to get paternity test results?
Results are typically available within 2–5 days for court/DRS cases; private informational labs may return results in 3–5 business days (Philadelphia FAQ).
Does insurance cover the cost of paternity testing in Pennsylvania?
Most insurance plans do NOT cover paternity testing unless required for a medical diagnosis.
Can I get a prenatal paternity test while pregnant in Pennsylvania?
Yes! Non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) tests are available from 7 weeks, and can be court-admissible (official legal chain-of-custody) or informational.
Can Paternity Testing Be Done After the Child is Born?
Yes, paternity testing can be performed at any time after the child's birth. It typically involves a simple cheek swab from the child and potential father.
Trusted Paternity Testing Services Throughout Pennsylvania – Accurate, Affordable, and Accessible
When it comes to establishing biological relationships, securing custody, or resolving family disputes, reliable paternity testing is essential. GameDay DNA offers court-admissible and at-home paternity tests with unmatched accuracy and fast turnaround times tailored to your needs.
Serving all major cities across Pennsylvania, our AABB-accredited laboratories ensure legal defensibility and peace of mind. Whether you require legal documentation or personal reassurance, trust GameDay DNA for expert, confidential service.
Ready to confirm paternity with confidence? Contact GameDay DNA today to schedule your test and learn more about our comprehensive services across Pennsylvania.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter! If you have questions about paternity tests or other DNA testing services, please contact our Client Support Center at 302-529-1789, Mon-Fri from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time. Our friendly, expert representatives are ready and happy to help. Get answers anytime by visiting our Help Center.
